FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Appraisal Services
How much do you charge for a jewelry appraisal?
All Dallas Jewelry Appraisals are performed in front of you so your jewelry never leaves your sight. One item takes approximately twenty minutes with an appraiser where you are encouraged to be as involved as you like. You leave with your jewelry and a copy of your appraisal. If you have a large collection or an estate of many items, we do give an additional discount.
What is included in an appraisal?
The appraisal provides a detailed description of the item including metal purity, gram weight, finish, setting, trademark (if legible), condition of item, shapes of all diamonds and gemstones with measurements, estimated weights and color/clarity, the determined value and a GIA Graduate Gemologist’s signature with seal. If you would like to see an example of one of our appraisals, you can view it.
Can an electronic copy of my appraisal be emailed to me?
As a service to all our clients, we are happy to provide an electronic copy of your appraisal to you.
Do I need to make an appointment for a jewelry appraisal?
Yes. Appointments ensure that each client will receive individual and prompt service.
How long does it take to perform a jewelry appraisal? Do I need to leave my jewelry?
No, clients do not need to leave their jewelry. In fact, clients are encouraged to stay and observe the appraisal process. Please allow approximately 20 minutes per item. Appraisal documents are generally completed by the end of each appointment. Of course, clients are able to make arrangements to leave their jewelry and return after the appraisal is completed.
What are your hours?
We typically take appointments from 8:30-6:00 Monday – Thursday and 8:30-3:00 on Friday.
Are you open on the weekends?
We work select Saturdays. 8:30-6:00
Do I need to bring any documentation with me when I come for my appointment?
Yes. In order to give you the most accurate appraisal possible, please bring any documentation you have about the property to be appraised.
- Diamond or gemstone certificates from AGS, GIA, EGL, etc
- Sales receipts
- Warranties
- Old insurance summaries listing the property
- Old appraisals (helpful if previous appraiser took stone measurements or examined stones before they were mounted)
Is Mr. Howard L. Traxler Graduate Gemologist (to satisfy my insurance requirements)?
Yes, he has been a professional jewelry appraiser for over 30 years.
What is an “independent jewelry appraiser?”
An independent jewelry appraiser does not buy or sell jewelry allowing him/her to act as an impartial third party. The appraiser should not act as a buyer or a seller and cannot have a relationship with the pieces being appraised (or the parties involved). This assures you that the appraiser is being fair and impartial; the pieces being appraised are not being artificially inflated or devalued.
Do I need to bring my jewelry to your office or can you do the jewelry appraisal at my Dallas location?
We can do your appraisal in our North Dallas office or at a location of your choice. We have a portable gemological laboratory that makes it possible to travel to your home, office, bank vault or store. We do not typically recommend performing appraisals at your location unless you have several items or simply do not feel comfortable bringing your items as we must charge an extra fee to travel.
Where are you located?
Our office is located at HLM Diamond Connection LLC – Dominion Plaza: 17304 Preston Rd, 8th Floor, Dallas, Texas 75252, United States. Map
Do you do jewelry repair?
Yes! We provide a wide range of jewelry services
Do you restring pearls?
Yes! We offer restringing that can be done within 3-5 business days.
How often do I need to have my jewelry appraised?
Most insurance companies recommend that you have your jewelry appraisal reports updated every two or three years. Please keep in mind you will need to have items with large gemstones — especially diamonds — updated more often than an item with no gemstones at all. Jewelry Appraisal Services
Do you appraise fine watches?
Yes! We appraise all fine watches including Rolex, Tag Heuer, Breitling, Cartier, Omega, Raymond Weil, etc. We will provide you with a complete description and the current retail replacement value needed to properly insure your watch.