Understanding Date of Death Jewelry Appraisals
When a loved one passes away, there are many emotional and logistical steps that families and executors must navigate. Among them is the task of valuing personal assets, including heirloom and fine jewelry. For estate tax purposes and probate court, this requires a specific type of valuation known as a date of death jewelry appraisal.
At Lauren O Jewels, we provide accurate, IRS-compliant date of death appraisals for jewelry collections across Petaluma, Sonoma, Marin, Napa, and the Bay Area. Here’s what you need to know about this important process.
What Is a Date of Death Jewelry Appraisal?
A date of death appraisal establishes the fair market value of jewelry on the exact date a person passes away. Unlike insurance appraisals, which focus on replacement cost, date of death appraisals reflect what the jewelry could reasonably sell for in the secondary market at that specific time.
These appraisals are required for:
Federal estate tax filings (IRS Form 706)
Probate court documentation
Fair distribution of assets among heirs and beneficiaries
Estate planning and settlements
Why Is It Required?
The IRS and probate courts require accurate fair market valuations to determine estate taxes and to ensure equitable handling of assets. Jewelry is often one of the more valuable personal property categories in an estate, and without a proper appraisal:
Estate taxes may be overpaid or underpaid.
Asset distribution among heirs may be disputed.
Executors and fiduciaries may lack defensible documentation.
Having a certified estate jewelry appraisal performed eliminates uncertainty and ensures compliance with federal and state requirements.
How the Process Works
At Lauren O Jewels, we’ve designed a compassionate and precise process to support families during this time:
Consultation – We review the estate’s jewelry items and any available history or documentation.
Examination – Each piece is carefully evaluated using gemological tools, noting gemstone quality, metal content, craftsmanship, and condition.
Documentation – We provide a formal date of death jewelry appraisal report that is IRS-compliant and recognized by attorneys, fiduciaries, and probate courts.
Estate Professionals We Support
Our date of death appraisals are trusted by:
Attorneys and probate professionals – Ensuring legal requirements are met.
Executors and fiduciaries – Providing accurate values for asset division.
Families and beneficiaries – Offering peace of mind and fairness in settlements.
By working closely with estate professionals, we ensure the appraisal process is smooth, efficient, and respectful of the family’s needs.
Why Choose Lauren O Jewels
IRS-Compliant Reports – Our appraisals meet strict standards for estate tax documentation.
Trusted Across Northern California – Serving Petaluma, Sonoma County, Marin, Napa, and the Bay Area.
Experienced & Compassionate – We understand both the technical and emotional sides of estate appraisals.
Available for Travel – For larger estates, we provide on-site appraisals beyond our studio.
Schedule a Date of Death Jewelry Appraisal
If you are managing an estate and require a date of death jewelry appraisal, Lauren O Jewels is here to help. We provide accurate, compliant, and compassionate appraisal services tailored to your estate’s needs.
Contact Lauren O Jewels today to schedule your appraisal in Petaluma, Sonoma, Marin, Napa, or the greater Bay Area.