Jewelry Appraisals Online: Using Twitter To Find An Appraiser

When you shop for jewelry appraisals, social networks such as Twitter are excellent sources to check. However, anyone can join these networks and present themselves as professionals. It is up to you to determine credibility. Here are some things to remember when looking for a qualified appraiser online.

Check If The Appraiser Has Professional Jewelry Certifications

You may think that someone is qualified to be an appraiser because they sell the items. Some stores may have qualified appraisers, but selling these goods is not a qualification. Someone can sell these goods for many years and still not understand about the art of appraising. Also, you may find a conflict of interest if your items are from a competing retailer, or from the same retailer. A professional appraiser has to be unbiased.

Be Aware of Jewelry Appraisal Kit Snake Oil

You may think that someone is a professional appraiser and they are simply selling kits for do it yourself appraising. These products may help you determine value. Yet, in the final analysis, you are doing the appraising and you are not qualified.

Not All Antique Dealers Are Jewelry Appraisers

You may find some appraisers in social networks who are antique dealers. Dealing with antiques and collectables does not qualify someone to be an appraiser. You must ask a lot of questions before you pay for these services.

It’s a bit more difficult to check credentials of appraisers. You can check the alumni records of the GIA for starters. Also, the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers (NAJA) is an excellent place. Overall, one needs a lot of education to properly appraise these typse of goods. You have to make the decision, and it should be based on what you see, the appraiser’s education and professional record, and feedback from the appraiser.

When you think about it, you are the one who makes the determination about a professional appraiser. Just because they advertise on social networks, does not mean they possess the right credentials. This is why you need to communicate with the appraiser and ask about their education and experience. Also, only deal with people who act in a professional manner.

Heritage Appraisers offers jewelry appraisals in 16 states across 50+ locations. Find out where to get jewelry appraised today, or request a jewelry appraisal quote online, and one of our GIA graduate appraisers or staff will contact you soon.