Indenpendent appraiser for a signed piece?

[Phoenix]

So I'm still searching for my large honker!

I've recently identified a few stones, one of which is a signed piece. It's a large EC and I don't think the vendor does ASET or anything like that. Also, since it's a signed piece, I'd like to make sure that the whole piece (i.e. both diamond + setting) is a genuine signed piece and not just the setting.

Which of the IA's recommended on PS would you say is most familiar with appraising signed pieces and how much do you think they would charge (assuming the vendor is willing to ship the ring to the IA and not require him/ her to come to them)?

 

[diamondseeker2006]

I absolutely would have any second hand, expensive item assessed by an independent appraiser. Is the item in the US and if so, where (generally)?

I am not sure if they could verify that the stone is original, though. You might find out from the company that made the ring if they would verify it. It wouldn't matter to me if the stone was not original if it was an excellent stone, but I wouldn't pay the premium for the brand in that case.

 

[Phoenix]

The ring is in the US and yes, I absolutely agree. I certainly wouldn't buy it without having it independently appraised (and also without my seeing it in person eventually).

The seller says they have the paperwork from the original jeweller (a very well known one in fact). I am not sure if they can send the piece back to the orig. jeweller but that is excellent advice, DS. I shall ask them if they could do it. I'd imagine I'd prob have to have a tentative agreement on pricing, before they'd agree to send it off to the orig. jeweller and / or the IA. How much off the asking price do you think is a fair offer? FYI, it's quite a large piece (larger than 5ct).

I do know of at least one IA who could tell if the piece is signed but I used him for the Tiffany Lucida piece and he charged me an absolute fortune (claiming he had to go to the premises and hence he factored that into his charges). I'm not interested in using him again (didn't feel that he was entirely honest and his exhorbitant charges put me off). I'd prefer to use one IA for both services (ie authenticity and cut) if possible . If not, however, I shall explore the route recommended. Thank you.

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Well, I can't wait to see how this turns out, Phoenix! An EC is one of the most beautiful diamonds in a large size!

Coming to a price agreement would be somewhat difficult unless you can find some price comps on similar branded items. I think you need the independent appraiser to help you with pricing.

 

[Phoenix]

Well, I can't wait to see how this turns out, Phoenix! An EC is one of the most beautiful diamonds in a large size!

Coming to a price agreement would be somewhat difficult unless you can find some price comps on similar branded items. I think you need the independent appraiser to help you with pricing.

Thank you, DS. Perhaps I can email you? Would you mind plz?

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Oh, absolutely anytime, Phoenix!