by Jade Simpson

#Antique jewelry holds a special place in many collectors and admirers’ hearts, mainly because of its history. There is also a certain romance to having antique jewelry that has passed hands many times. Just the thought of owning antique jewelry gives the item a certain romantic aura and exceptionality, since you know that there is probably nothing in the world that is quite like it. So if you have a piece and want to know its value, you naturally would want to know how to appraise your antique jewelry.

Why you can’t do it yourself Unless you have undeniable proof that your jewelry is truly an antique (your great-great-great grandfather gave it to your great-great-great grandmother as an engagement present), there is a high likelihood that you’ll have difficulty determining the value of an antique jewelry without proper training. In fact, if you know nothing about jewelry, you probably won’t be able to tell whether it’s genuine or just a really good reproduction.

While there are certain ways to tell the genuine from the fake (some people, for example, rub pearls against their teeth to check if they are real), not all methods involving the naked eye and bare hands are fool-proof. Remember that jewelry appraisal isn’t only about identifying the material(s) that makes up your jewelry; it is also about putting a dollar value on the item either for purchase or for insurance.

Turning to a professional The only person who can give you the proper appraisal of your antique jewelry is a professional appraiser. They have the high level of training, education, product knowledge and experience to qualify as an appraiser of antique jewelry. Look for someone who is an Accredited Senior Appraiser or Master Gemologist Appraiser of the American Society of Appraisers.

Beware of names Not everyone who took some courses in gemology is a qualified to be an antique jewelry appraiser. A graduate gemologist, for example, can identify gemstones and their grades but that skill doesn’t make him an appraiser. And just because someone sells jewelry or repairs watches doesn’t mean they, too, are qualified to appraise.

Becoming a professional If you want to be able to perform reliable antique jewelry appraisals, you’ll have to learn the trade. Contrary to what most people believe, the jewelry business isn’t exclusive and you can, in fact, learn what other jewelers and appraisers know. You can also start by doing research on the makes and styles of jewelry during specific periods to help you identify your antique jewelry in case you don’t have the proper papers.