If you are passionate about jewelry and want to make a career out of it, you can do it by becoming a jewelry appraiser. But how do I become a jewelry appraiser? To become one, you need to have a keen eye for beautiful jewelry and analytical skills.
You need to examine stunning pieces, research their backgrounds, and identify their market value. All of this comes with proper knowledge, training, and experience, which we will discuss in our step-by-step guidance to becoming a jewelry appraiser.
Step-by-step Guideline to Become A Jewelry Appraiser
Becoming a professional jewelry appraiser is not rocket science, but you still need to have a plan or else you will not reach your milestone. Here is a step-by-step guideline you should follow to jumpstart your career:
Getting the Proper Education and Training
Although there are no set educational prerequisites, attending jewelry-specific courses may help you get started in the field. It would be beneficial to take courses in gemology, jewelry design, art history, and business value.
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is one of several institutions from which appraisers may get a degree or certificate in gemology. Insight into the world of diamond and colored gemstone grading is provided.
You’ll also need to learn certain evaluation skills. Try to find training courses that the ASA or the NAJA (National Association of Jewelry Appraisers) have approved. Appraisal theory, procedure, and ethics will all be covered. Learning by doing is the best way to get the technical assessment skills you need.
Gather As Much Experience
For those who are interested in becoming appraisers, getting experience in the field is just as vital as getting a degree in the field. If you want to get experience working in the jewelry sector, your best bet is to look for internships or part-time jobs there.
A significant number of appraisers get their start in the industry by gaining experience at jewelry shops or auction houses. Seek experiences where you may learn about the appraisal process by observing and helping out. Your level of competence will correspond to the amount of practical experience you have.
Start Networking
Without networking, you will be stuck in the long run in your journey to become a jewelry appraiser. You need to be connected with helpful guides and others who can provide feedback on your projects. Introduce yourself to area jewelers, auctioneers, appraisers, and gemologists.
Start engaging in the community or with trade groups. Meet dealers, collectors, and other interested parties at jewelry fairs and events. Build trustworthy relationships before launching your appraisal firm.
Get Yourself Certified
If you want to be taken seriously as an appraiser, it helps to have credentials like certificates and accreditations. The following are examples of highly regarded places to get credentials:
Organization | Certification | Requirements |
Gemological Institute of America (GIA) | GIA Graduate Gemologist diploma | Pass exams in diamond grading, colored stone identification, jewelry design, and gem identification |
American Gem Society (AGS) | Certified Gemologist Appraiser title | Pass the appraisal exam and submit 3 appraisal reports |
American Society of Appraisers (ASA) | Accredited Member (AM) or Accredited Senior Appraiser (ASA) designation | Submit appraisal report, pass ethics exam, meet education and experience requirements |
National Association of Jewelry Appraisers (NAJA) | Certified Master Appraiser title | Pass 4 appraisal exams, document experience, and submit appraisal reports |
Get All the Necessary Tools and Equipment
Tool/Equipment | Purpose |
Microscope | Helps to enhance a close-up view of gems, hallmarks, etc. |
Diamond tester | Identify whether the diamond is real or synthetic. |
Loupe | Helps to magnify small jewelry details for inspection. |
Gold/platinum testing kit | Evaluates the quality and carat content of jewelry. |
Ultraviolet light | Exposes hidden treatments in ambient lighting |
Jewelry photography set | You can take photos to document the necessary pieces. |
Appraisal software | Helps with pricing, accounting, and inventory |
Certified scales | Precision weighing for jewelry and gemstones |
Read More: How to Appraise Jewelry Yourself?
Become an Independent Appraiser or Work for a Firm
Once you’ve earned the appropriate credentials, you can begin your own appraisal business. To do so, you’ll need to sell your services, keep financial records, do errands, and run a studio all on your own.
Working for an established jewelry wholesaler, store, auction house, or assessment agency is another option. More guidance, instruction, and encouragement may be gained in this way. You might provide an inventory appraisal service or do appraisals for clients.
Always Stay Relevant with Jewelry Trends and Valuations
Appraisal expertise requires regular updating to keep up with changes in the jewelry market. Get on the mailing lists of the most reputable jewelry periodicals and online news sources. Stick with the leading fashion businesses, jewelry stores, auction houses, and collectors on the web.
Try to create as many jewelry-related events as you can. Participate in industry groups to get access to educational events and seminars. The jewelry market is always changing, and appraisers need to be aware of these shifts to appropriately value items.
Click Here: Jewelry Appraisal vs Selling Price- What Makes Them Different?
FAQ
What is the educational requirement to become a jewelry appraiser?
While there is no set educational prerequisite for appraising, it might assist in taking courses in gemology, jewelry design, art history, and commercial value. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) offers degrees and certificates in Gemology to those interested in becoming appraisers.
Where should I get training to become a jewelry appraiser?
Look for appraisal courses approved by the American Society of Appraisers (ASA) or the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers (NAJA). Appraisal theory, process, ethics, and technical valuation abilities are covered in depth. Training using actual pieces of jewelry is preferable.
How to get experience to become an appraiser?
Experiential learning is essential. If you want to learn more about the jewelry business, an internship or part-time job might help. You can learn a lot about appraising by seeing and helping with appraisals.
Conclusion
Becoming a professional jewelry appraiser demands effort, training, and a true enthusiasm for exquisite jewels. But for those willing to commit the time, it may lead to an enormously fulfilling and intriguing profession. Follow this guide as you embark on a career as a jewelry appraiser and build your knowledge, skills, credentials, and network.