Jewelry appraisers can have relative stable and well compensated careers, depending on the level of experience, type of jewelry they appraise, location education(certifications).
Although not a legal requirement most jewelry appraisers have some training in gemology leading to knowledge into the value of gemstones according to color, clarity and the cut. The appraiser also needs to have current knowledge of wholesale and retail values of the gemstones as well as precious metals. In some cases items have special added value based on a designer brand or collectible conditions which will require in-depth knowledge of the specific area by the appraiser.
Specialties: Specialties within the jewelry appraisal field include estate and antique appraisals. In addition to article valuation estate appraisers also need to be knowledgeable about estate planning, insurance, and bankruptcy. Estate appraisers normally deal with groups of items rather than individual pieces.
Income potential: Salaries and income potential vary widely depending on the level of experience, location, type of appraisal and weather the appraiser is an employee of a retail operation or an independent.
Education: Although actual work experience can substitute for basic education most appraisers usually begin with:
- a GIA Graduate Gemologist (GG) certificate or
- Fellow of the Gemological Association (FGA) certification (the Gemological Association of Great Britain).
Experience: The next step is obtaining a position in a retail jewelry store to gain real life experience . This phase can be several years during which additional education and certification can take place leading to a fast track career path. This step may need to begin with internship for an experienced appraiser to get your foot in the trade.
Trade credentials: Next it's best to join one or more of the accredited industry organizations to gain trade credibility and build your network. The key organizations for jewelry appraiser include:
- National Association of Jewelry Appraisers (NAJA);
- American Society of Appraisers (ASA);
- International Society of Appraisers (ISA)
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