Every appraisal serves a different purpose.
Below is a clear guide to help you determine the correct type of valuation for your jewelry.

Insurance Appraisals / Insurance Replacement Value

A jewelry insurance appraisal is a detailed evaluation that determines an item's value through close inspection and current market research. It reflects a well-informed professional opinion about the authenticity, quality, design, and materials of the piece—supported by formal training, real-world experience, and the use of specialized gemological tools.
Our appraisal reports are designed to establish Replacement Value—the amount it would cost to replace your item with one of comparable quality in today’s retail market. This is the figure used by insurance providers to determine appropriate coverage in the event of loss, theft, or damage. Each report includes detailed descriptions, measurements, high-quality photographs, and gemological findings, giving your insurance company all the essential information required to accurately insure your piece.
We appraise a broad spectrum of items including engagement rings, designer pieces, antique jewelry, and luxury watches. Our goal is to provide accurate, up-to-date valuations that avoid inflated premiums while ensuring sufficient coverage.
As market conditions shift over time, we recommend having your jewelry reappraised every 2 to 4 years to keep your coverage current. We also offer post-loss assessments to evaluate and document damage or missing items for insurance claims.
Each appraisal is handled with discretion, accuracy, and care—reflecting the trusted reputation Studio Gem Labs is known for.

Purpose: To insure your jewelry against loss, theft, or damage.

Value Type: Retail Replacement Value

Used For:

Delivers: A full, detailed appraisal with photos and documentation approved by all major insurers.

Estate Appraisals / Fair Market Value

Settling an estate or managing a trust often involves complex decisions—especially when it comes to valuing a collection of fine jewelry. At Studio Gem Labs, we provide detailed estate appraisal reports tailored to meet the needs of attorneys, trustees, fiduciaries, and family members during what is often an emotional and time-sensitive process.
Our estate appraisals are designed to establish Fair Market Value—what an item would sell for in its current condition in the appropriate second-hand market, under typical buyer and seller circumstances. This is the IRS’s standard for estate tax purposes, and we align our reports with those requirements, including documented comparisons, market research, and valuation logic that can hold up under scrutiny.
Whether your goal is to file with the IRS, assist in probate, fairly divide property among heirs, or simply gain clarity on inherited items, we tailor the assignment to your specific needs. For estates not subject to taxation, a less formal appraisal can still serve as a valuable tool for equitable distribution or family record-keeping.
We also offer verbal consultations for situations where no written report is needed—ideal for identifying items, sorting collections, and prioritizing pieces for further evaluation.
Each assignment is handled with the utmost care, discretion, and professionalism—always respecting the personal and historical significance of the jewelry involved.

Purpose: To determine a realistic resale value for previously owned jewelry.

Value Type: Fair Market Value (IRS definition)

Used For:

Delivers: A realistic price that a willing buyer and seller would agree upon under typical market conditions.