Jewelers of America

If you’re drawn to art and history – and understanding the worth of beautiful things – becoming a jewelry appraiser may be for you.

A jewelry appraiser is responsible for assessing and documenting the value of various jewelry pieces, including fine watches and antique and contemporary jewelry. This involves a detailed description of each item and researching the market to estimate its value.

The appraisal documents are often used by customers to obtain insurance or settle estates, or even just to keep a record of their jewelry collection. Many jewelry stores keep appraisers on staff or contract with an appraisal firm to provide this service to their customers.

Individuals with interests in history, research, or deductive reasoning may be drawn to this field.

Key Skills

• Meticulous and detail-oriented
• Curious and interested in topics like art, history, and design
• Good interviewers and researchers
• Excellent at organizing information
• Can engage with clients

Possible Job Titles in this Pathway

• Jewelry Appraiser
• Gemologist and Jewelry Authenticator
• Jewelry Authenticator
• Authenticator
• Gemologist/ Staff Gemologist
• Master Gemologist Appraiser
• Certified Master Appraiser
• Certified Gemologist Appraiser
• Estate Appraiser
• Insurance Appraiser
• Litigation Appraiser
• Liquidation Appraiser

Salary Expectations

Data is from Jewelers of America’s Jewelry Industry Salary Study conducted April-June 2023 and includes data from 2022. Compensation varies based on experience, specific job responsibilities, company size and location, among other distinctions. Given these variables within a career pathway, data is presented as such: The 25th Percentile indicates 25% of the data fall below this percentile; the Median (50th Percentile) represents the middle number where 50% of answers are lower and 50% are higher; the 75th Percentile indicates 75% of the data fall below this percentile.

Experience & Training

• Previous retail or customer service experience is helpful. Gaining hands-on experience of the jewelry industry is critical.
• Diploma work in gemology (G.G., FGA, or other) is necessary, as are courses in appraisal theory and qualifications from one of the major appraisal organizations (American Society of Appraisers, International Society of Appraisers, National Association of Jewelry Appraisers, American Gem Society).
• Computer skills are necessary; digital photography, Adobe Photoshop® skills, and hands-on jewelry experience are helpful, as is a background in art and jewelry history.

Related Education or Certification

• Gemological Institute of America (GIA)
• National Association of Jewelry Appraisers
• American Society of Appraisers
• International Society of Appraisers  
• American Gem Society  

On the Job

An appraiser’s day is spent determining the overall quality of a jewelry piece. Their analysis includes examining the metals, gems, and visible trademarks of a piece, as well as who designed or manufactured the piece and when this work was done.

Appraisals involve written reports, which can require the ability to use an appraisal or inventory management program. Appraisers also need computer skills to perform research and bill clients. Communications skills are critical for establishing good relationships with clients and colleagues, getting necessary background information from customers, and developing new business.

Finally, many appraisers stay up-to-date with changes in their field – in tax and insurance laws and within the jewelry industry – so their learning skills are constantly put to the test. Equally, attaining professional designations and seeing the results of their commitment to service and integrity provides their greatest satisfaction: helping people understand and appreciate their jewelry and wear it with confidence.

Growing in the Industry

Most appraisers get their start working in a retail jewelry store. Some become full-time staff appraisers, while others take on sales responsibilities as well. Other career paths can include working for an independent appraisal lab or as a traveling appraiser with several retail clients. All of these positions can lead to management or establishing your own business as an independent appraiser.

Auction houses, insurance companies, and pawnbrokers need appraisers. Additionally, experience working with antique jewelry can lead to a job at a company supplying estate jewelry to retailers.