Question 1

Do I have to leave my jewelry?

Accepted Answer

No. Your jewelry stays with you throughout the appointment. John performs each appraisal while you watch, ask questions, and learn about your jewelry. You won't need to leave your pieces behind or wait days for your report.

Question 2

Do I need to make an appointment?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All appraisals are by appointment only. This allows John to give you his full attention and provides a private, comfortable setting for your appointment. You can schedule online or call 503-707-5527.

Question 3

What paperwork should I bring, if any?

Accepted Answer

If you have them, bring any previous appraisals, purchase receipts, gemstone grading reports, certificates, or insurance documentation related to your jewelry. These documents can provide helpful background information. Don't worry if you don't have any paperwork—John can examine your jewelry and prepare an appraisal based on his findings.

Question 4

Do you accept credit cards?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Jewelry Appraisers of Portland accepts all major credit cards through Square, as well as Apple Pay and other contactless NFC payments. Payment is due when your appraisal is complete.

Question 5

Can you update an old appraisal using the existing paperwork, or do I need to bring in the jewelry?

Accepted Answer

You'll need to bring in the jewelry. An updated appraisal requires an examination of the actual piece so its current condition, characteristics, and identifying details can be evaluated. Bring your previous appraisal as well, so John can refer to the original description and documentation.

Question 6

What is Gemology?

Accepted Answer

Gemology is the scientific study of gemstones—beautiful, durable, and desirable minerals including diamonds, emeralds, rubies, sapphires, opals, and pearls. A professional gemologist uses advanced tools to identify stones and assess enhancements such as dyes, heat treatments, fracture filling, laser drilling, coatings, and more. They can also distinguish between natural and lab-created stones, ensuring transparency in all assessments.

Question 7

What Is a Graduate Gemologist (G.G.)?

Accepted Answer

A Graduate Gemologist (G.G.) is someone who has completed the rigorous gemology curriculum at the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). This respected qualification reflects deep expertise in gemstone science, though the GIA does not certify appraisers or determine value—it focuses solely on education and scientific standards.

Question 8

What's the Difference Between a Gemologist and an Appraiser?

Accepted Answer

A gemologist specializes in identifying and analyzing gemstones scientifically. An appraiser, on the other hand, determines the monetary value of jewelry based on market trends. For the most accurate valuations, it's ideal when one professional holds both qualifications—gemologist and appraiser. That way, you get precise identification paired with informed valuation.

Question 9

What Is an Appraisal, and Why Do I Need One?

Accepted Answer

An appraisal is a detailed, purpose-specific document that describes your item and assigns a value. Common appraisal types include:Insurance Replacement Value – Reflects the cost of replacing the item with a new, comparable piece from a retail jeweler—typically higher than fair market value.Fair Market Value – Used for gift tax reporting or donations; reflects what a comparable item might sell for in estate or secondhand markets.Always clarify your appraisal purpose upfront—whether for insurance, tax, donation, or other needs—so the report can be correctly tailored.

Question 10

What Qualifications Should My Appraiser Have?

Accepted Answer

Professional credentials – Look for appraisers who clearly indicate adherence to USPAP (Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice), the industry benchmark for ethics and methodology.
Transparent fee structure – Appraisers should charge by time or flat rate—not as a percentage of the appraised value—to avoid conflicts of interest and comply with IRS guidelines.

Question 11

What About Jewelry Appraiser Regulation?

Accepted Answer

There are currently no federal or state licensing laws governing who may call themselves a jewelry appraiser. As such, it's your responsibility to verify the appraiser's credentials, experience, and trustworthiness before proceeding.

Question 12

How Much Does a Jewelry Appraisal Cost?

Accepted Answer

Appraisal fees generally range from $100 per item to $300+ per hour, depending on complexity and report detail. Costs vary but remember quality and accuracy matter most.

Question 13

Why Choose Jewelry Appraisers of Portland?

Accepted Answer

On-site, transparent service – All appraisals are performed while you watch, eliminating uncertainty about your item's handling.Highly qualified team – We are Graduate Gemologists (GIA G.G.) with over 40 years of experience.Independent and unbiased – We don't buy or sell jewelry, which ensures a conflict-free, objective valuation.Convenient appointments – Services by appointment only, with free parking and easy scheduling.

503-707-5527

Know What You Have. Know What It's Worth.

INDEPENDENT EXPERTISE. PERSONAL SERVICE.

IN BUSINESS Since 1979

INDEPENDENT APPRAISER

GIA Graduate Gemologist

PRIVATE APPOINTMENTS

APPRAISAL SERVICES

While you wait and watch, By appointment.

INSURANCE & PROTECTION

ESTATES & HEIRLOOMS

HELPING YOU BUY & SELL

MEET YOUR APPRAISER

John Higley

PRICING

STRAIGHTFORWARD PRICING

FIRST ITEM

$125

EACH ADDITIONAL ITEM

$115

ENGAGEMENT RING + MATCHING BAND

$200

TESTIMONIALS

what clients say

FAQ

questions before your appointment?