SERVICES

Jewelry & Gemstone Appraisals

Heirloom Jewelry & Gemstone Appraisals in Petaluma, ca

Hire a qualified appraiser

Lauren O'Sullivan Walter is an Accredited Senior Appraiser with ASA and has 20 years of professional experience in valuing jewelry. She has been a GIA Graduate Gemologist since 2004, and is a Fellow of the Gemological Association of Great Britain, Gem-A (FGA).  She is also a member of The National Association Of Jewelry Appraisers. 

Terry has over 40 years of experience in the jewelry industry. He is a GIA Graduate Gemologist, Certified Bench Jeweler and a member of The National Association of Jewelry Appraisers. Working with various sectors of the industry he experienced the many facets of the industry up-close and the skilled craft of the cutters, polishers, designers, craftsmen and brands.

Want to find out the value of your beloved heirloom or gemstone?

We offer independent appraisal services for all jewelry. Find out more about our process below.

Heirloom Jewelry & Gemstone Appraisals in Petaluma, ca

Appraisals for Insurance Scheduling

Consultation

Many clients reach out for consultation to discuss which items in their collection are in need of a written appraisal.  It is always a good idea to check with your insurance company ahead of time to see what coverage your policy offers.


Process

An appraisal takes 30-40 minutes per item.  This includes taking photos, and cleaning and polishing the piece.


Pricing

  • For non-gemstone items start at $150/item, Gemstone items start at $170/item and up. Please send us a note to get a specific quote →

  • All pricing is stated and agreed to before the work is begun so the client has a clear understanding of what they will be charged.

    Estate Appraisals

    Process

  • Reach out to discuss how we can support your estate appraisal needs, whether for estate tax, liquidation, donation or equitable distribution. We provide comprehensive fair market value reports prepared in compliance with USPAP standards.

  • Clients often benefit from an initial consultation to review the estate and sort the collection.

  • Estate appraisal services are billed hourly, starting at $250 per hour, with rates adjusted based on the complexity and scope of the assignment.

  • On-site evaluations for large or special collections can be scheduled.

    Please reach out to discuss your specific needs

Appraisal FAQs

  • A professionally qualified appraiser will deliver a detailed, written appraisal report that is independently and impartially prepared, offering an expert opinion on the quality, characteristics, and value of each jewelry item. This comprehensive report includes thorough documentation such as gemstone identification, metal type, craftsmanship, condition, and relevant market data supporting the valuation. To enhance clarity and record-keeping, each appraisal also features high-resolution color photographs of the items from multiple angles. Our reports are designed to meet industry standards and are suitable for insurance, estate, legal, or resale purposes.

    At Lauren O. Inc., each jewelry item is professionally cleaned prior to examination to ensure the most accurate grading and valuation. To the best of our ability, all stones are checked for security in their settings, and any visible repair needs or structural concerns are carefully noted in the appraisal report.

  • To insure an accurate assessment of your jewelry, bring any documentation you have on your jewelry items to the appraisal appointment. Be sure to include sales receipts, diamond or gemstone lab certificates, warranties, old appraisals or insurance summaries, and any documentation that details factual information regarding the history or provenance of your jewelry item.

  • Appraising your jewelry will safeguard your investment if it ever becomes lost or stolen. If replacement or settlement becomes necessary, the accuracy and detail included in a Lauren O. Inc. appraisal makes it possible to identify your jewelry items or to have exact duplicates recreated.

    A comprehensive written appraisal is accepted as proper identification by most authorities. A valid appraisal is particularly important in proving your claim on lost or stolen jewelry, or proving ownership if traveling to a foreign country.

    A current and objective appraisal will indicate the appropriate market value of your jewelry item. This valuable information can be used to determine if your jewelry is adequately insured and will take the guess work out of calculating insurance coverage and premiums.

Get Started

Schedule a private appraisal

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