Behind the Scenes: A Day in the Life of a Jewellery Appraiser

Behind the Scenes: A Day in the Life of a Jewellery Appraiser

Go behind the scenes of a jewellery appraiser’s day and discover how expert valuations are done. Learn what goes into accurate, ethical appraisals.

Have you ever wondered what a jewellery appraiser does all day? Many people think we simply look at a ring or necklace and write down a number—but the truth is, jewellery appraising is a careful, detailed process that blends science, experience, and ethics. In this post, I’ll take you behind the scenes to show you a typical day in the life as a professional jewellery appraiser.

Morning: Reviewing Appointments & Preparing Tools

Every day starts with a review of scheduled appointments. We check which pieces clients will bring in, note any special concerns (rare gemstones, estate jewellery, or damaged items), and make sure all tools are ready. These tools include:

• Gemstone microscopes

• Loupe and magnification equipment

• Calipers and measurement tools

• Precious metal testing kits

• Documentation templates

Preparation is crucial. The more organized in the morning, the smoother the rest of the day goes—and the more accurate appraisals will be.

Late Morning: Client Consultations

When clients arrive, the appraisal process begins with a conversation. asking questions like:

• How did you acquire this piece?

• Are you seeking an insurance appraisal, estate planning valuation, or

resale estimate?

• Have you had this item appraised before?

Understanding the client’s goals ensures that the appraisal meets their needs. Explaining the appraisal process in plain language so clients feel informed and confident.

Afternoon: Examining & Evaluating Jewellery

This is the heart of the day. The appraiser will carefully examine each piece, checking:

• Gemstone quality and authenticity

• Precious metal content

• Craftsmanship and brand

• Any damage or wear that affects value

Each observation is documented in detail. Also referenced is current market data to ensure valuations are accurate. This is where experience and training really come into play—every subtle detail can influence the final appraisal.

Late Afternoon: Writing Reports

After examining the jewellery, the next step is to prepare a clear, defensible appraisal report. Reports must include :

• Item descriptions with detailed measurements

• Photographs of each piece

• Valuation methodology and reasoning

• Certifications or lab reports when applicable

There are other information on the report but this gives you an idea of some of the vital information documented.

Transparency is key. A good report not only tells clients what their jewellery is worth but also explains why.

Evening: Continuing Education & Market Research

The day doesn’t end with the last report. Time is dedicated to:

• Studying new gemstones or trends

• Reviewing changes in precious metal markets

• Participating in professional training and certification updates

Jewellery appraisal is an evolving field. Staying current ensures that every appraisal provided is accurate, ethical, and valuable for clients.

Conclusion

Being a jewellery appraiser is far more than assigning a number to a piece of jewellery. It’s about expertise, ethics, and attention to detail. Every item has a story, and part of the job is to preserve that story while providing a precise, trustworthy valuation.

If you’ve ever considered getting your jewellery appraised—or want to ensure your current appraisal is up to date—don’t wait.