Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to the most common questions about the appraisal process, fees, appointments, and what to expect at Studio Gemological Laboratory.
Do I stay with my jewelry during the appointment?
Yes. Your jewelry remains in your possession throughout the entire evaluation.
How long does an appraisal take?
Most items take 15 to 45 minutes each depending on complexity. Multi-stone or antique items may take longer.
Do I need an appointment?
Yes. All evaluations are done by appointment to ensure privacy and proper lab time.
Do you buy jewelry?
Yes. We do purchase items when appropriate. Appraisal work, however, is performed independently.
Can you appraise items I plan to sell?
Yes. Fair Market Value is commonly used for resale, consignment, and liquidation.
Do you appraise for insurance?
Yes. Insurance Replacement Value is one of our most common services.
What should I bring to the appointment?
Bring your jewelry, any previous appraisals, receipts, grading reports, boxes, or paperwork if available.
Will my insurance accept your appraisal?
Yes. Our appraisals follow industry standards and are accepted by all major insurance companies.
Can you verify diamonds or gemstones?
Yes. We can verify authenticity, species, treatment, and quality using laboratory instrumentation.
Do you appraise loose stones?
Yes. Loose diamonds, gemstones, and matched pairs can be evaluated.
How often should I update my appraisal?
Every two to three years is recommended, or sooner if the market changes significantly.
Do you appraise watches?
Yes. Modern and vintage watches can be evaluated for insurance or FMV.
Can you appraise designer jewelry?
Yes. Pieces from brands such as Tiffany, Cartier, and David Yurman can be identified and valued.
Is my information confidential?
Yes. All client information and documents are kept private and secure.
Studio Policies
The following policies outline how Studio Gemological Laboratory operates to ensure a smooth, secure, and professional appraisal experience for every client.
Appointment Policy - Appointments are required for all appraisal services. Please arrive on time to ensure we have the full session available for your evaluation.
Cancellation Policy - If you need to cancel or reschedule, please notify us as soon as possible. Same-day cancellations or missed appointments may incur a fee depending on the circumstances.
Security and Possession Policy - You remain with your jewelry during the entire evaluation process. Items are not left unattended, taken off-site, or kept overnight unless previously agreed upon.
Privacy Policy - All client information, appraisal details, photographs, and documents are kept confidential and are not shared with third parties except at your explicit request.
Payment Policy - Payment is due at the time of the appointment unless prior arrangements have been made. We accept cash, credit/debit cards, and electronic payments where applicable.
Appraisal Delivery Policy - Most appraisal reports are delivered electronically within 1 to 3 business days unless additional research or testing is required. Printed copies are available upon request.
Revisions and Updates - If information needs to be updated or corrected, revisions can be issued. Updates due to market changes or new insurance requirements are billed at the standard appraisal update fee.
Valuation Limitations - Appraisal values reflect the market conditions at the time of the evaluation. Certain items may require advanced testing or specialized laboratory services not available in-house.
Third-Party Use - Appraisals may be used for insurance, resale, estate, or legal purposes. Studio Gemological Laboratory is not responsible for decisions made by third parties based on appraisal conclusions.
Authenticity Limitations - Determining gemstone origin, treatment status, or advanced synthetic detection may require specialized laboratory testing. When such limitations apply, they will be noted in the report.
Still Have Questions?
We’re happy to help clarify the process or guide you to the correct appraisal type.