Regardless of how you acquired your jewelry, one thing is for sure—it holds sentimental and monetary value. So why wouldn’t you want to get an accurate appraisal for it?
Unfortunately, the process of getting a jewelry appraisal can be daunting and even risky. There are many horror stories of people being scammed by untrustworthy appraisal companies. Don’t let this be you! In this blog, we’ll discuss the signs of a potential scam and give you tips on how to get an accurate appraisal for your jewelry.
The Risks of Going with the Wrong Appraisal Company
While there are certainly reputable and trustworthy jewelry appraisal companies out there, there are also many that will try to take advantage of you. This can result in an inaccurate and undervalued appraisal of your precious jewelry. In some cases, people have even had their jewelry stolen or switched during the appraisal process. This can be devastating, both emotionally and financially.
It’s important to do your research and choose a reputable company like Jewelry Artisans, which has been in business for over 40 years and has a team of certified gemologists. Learn from the mistakes of others by educating yourself on common scams so the same thing doesn’t happen to you.
6 Signs You’re Getting Scammed
So how can you tell if the appraisal company you’re working with is trying to scam you? If you encounter any of the following signs, it’s best to walk away and find a different appraisal company:
- Unprofessionalism: If the appraisal company seems disorganized or unprofessional, this could be a sign that they are not trustworthy.
- Large Upfront Fees: Be wary of appraisal companies that ask for large upfront fees before providing an appraisal. This could indicate that they are trying to scam you.
- High-Pressure Sales Tactics: If you feel like the appraisal company is pressuring you to sell your jewelry or make a decision quickly, this could be a red flag. A legitimate appraisal should never involve high-pressure sales tactics.
- No Credentials: Always ask to see the credentials of the appraiser. They should have proper training and certification in gemology and jewelry appraisal. If your request is denied, be wary and remain diligent.
- No Physical Inspection: If the appraisal company provides an appraisal on the spot or does not physically inspect your jewelry, this could be a sign that they are not providing an accurate appraisal. A proper appraisal should involve a thorough examination of your jewelry.
- Low Appraisal Value: If the value given by the appraisal company seems too low compared to other appraisals or what you paid for the piece, this could be a sign of a scam.
Pro-Tips for Getting an Accurate Appraisal
Now that you know what to avoid, let’s discuss some tips for getting an accurate appraisal for your jewelry:
- Do Your Research: Before choosing an appraisal company, do some research on their reputation and credentials. Look for customer reviews and make sure they have certified gemologists on staff.
- Get Multiple Appraisals: It’s always a good idea to get more than one opinion when it comes to appraising your jewelry. This will give you a better understanding of its true value and help you spot any discrepancies.
- Ask Questions: Don’t be afraid to ask the appraiser about their process and how they determine the value of your jewelry. A reputable company will be transparent and happy to answer any questions you have.
- Be Present During the Appraisal: If possible, be present during the appraisal process so you can see firsthand how your jewelry is being evaluated. This will also help ensure that nothing is switched or stolen.
- Consider Getting Updated Appraisals: The value of jewelry can fluctuate over time, so it’s important to get updated appraisals every few years. This will give you a current understanding of its worth and can be helpful for insurance purposes.
Trust Jewelry Artisans for Peace of Mind
Don’t let the risks scare you away from getting an accurate appraisal for your precious jewelry. By knowing the signs of a potential scam and following our tips, you can ensure that your jewelry is valued accurately and fairly. Experience peace of mind by partnering with people you can trust.
At Jewelry Artisans, we understand how much your jewelry matters. That’s why our team of certified gemologists takes great care in evaluating each piece and providing fair and honest appraisals. We have been a trusted source for jewelry appraisals in the Atlanta area for over 40 years, and we pride ourselves on our transparency and integrity. When you’re ready for an appraisal, we’re here for you.