The Standard Behind My Signature
Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) compliant through August 21, 2028.
To be a compliant appraiser, I need to take the USPAP (Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice) exam every two years. This requires me to understand the changes in the professional appraisal practice and other nuances in the appraisal field. Recently, I sat for my seven-hour exam and learned more about the appraisal field as it pertains to fine jewelry.
This year's exam covered a lot of ground on AI: how we can legally use it in an appraisal and what the limitations are. For example, I use a reverse image search when looking at a particular piece of jewelry while also finding pieces that are similar in design. My specific skill comes into play because I am very familiar with different periods of jewelry-making and know the value of them.
Most of my appraisal work is for estates and insurance. Both involve legal documents (pictured). This helps in understanding the value of each piece and also in the distribution of an estate if necessary.
I take detailed photographs for every piece. I record measurements and weights, note the condition, and research comparable sales or replacement values. Then I write it all up in an appraisal report and provide it to the client.
Here's something people don't always think about: Appraisals go out of date. I recommend having your jewelry reappraised every five to ten years. Gold and silver prices change. Over the last year, both have more than doubled. A ring appraised five years ago cannot have the same value as it would in today’s market.
When you hire an appraiser who's USPAP compliant, you're hiring someone who has to answer to a real set of standards. It's not just my opinion. I have to adhere to USPAP code, and I cannot give a dollar amount to an item unless I can prove it.
If you have any questions about USPAP appraising or understanding what you might need, please don’t hesitate to give me a call or fill out the contact form.
Tip: If it's been more than five years since your jewelry was appraised, pull out that old paperwork and check the date. Gold and silver have moved enough in just the last year that the number on that page may not reflect what you actually own anymore.