Client Services - Appraisals
Client Services |Private Showings | Gift Cards | Appraisal Services | Selling & Consigning Jewelry
Three Services
Clients often wish to know information about the antique and estate jewelry that they currently own. Where did it come from? How old is it? What is the history behind it? Surprisingly, there are few experts specializing in antique jewelry. Yet, this is what we do best - and all we do. Learn more about our qualifications and expertise here.
Traditionally, the only option was a full appraisal, which is more costly. In addition, in some cases, the jewelry may not warrant this expense. We now offer three individualized levels of consultation and pricing to help with a variety of needs.
Note: We specialize in fine jewelry that dates prior to 1925; if you own later 20th century costume jewelry or a fine watch, it is best to seek others more qualified in that field.
Expert Opinion
The first service we offer is an opinion only informational brief. This is accomplished by sending us clear, in-focus photographs of the front and back of the jewelry. Then we offer an opinion with as much information as can be garnered from a photograph. Of course, limitations are that we cannot test or weigh stones or metal content, we cannot always determine if an item is genuine or reproduction or other pertinent facts. However, often we can assess its date, country of origin and offer an idea of its history. We do not include a value due to the limits of photographs; yet this is perfect for those who just want some idea of the history their jewelry.
This is never to be used to buy, sell or insure jewelry. Since we receive so many requests for this information, we charge a nominal fee of $25.00 per piece. Please allow at least one week for your opinion.
Authentication
We also provide an authentication of any piece of fine jewelry. It is necessary for us to examine the item in person. The jewelry would need to be mailed securely to us. You would receive a receipt and then a short, written paragraph including the date the piece was made, its possible origin, and may contain comments on condition, construction, materials and placed within the context of the era; it does not include testing all metals and gemstones. Therefore, does not include a value.
However, often we can determine a great deal. This abbreviated information should NOT be used for selling, insuring or buying any piece of jewelry, but is perfect for getting a good sense of what your family jewelry's history is about or for verifying authenticity of jewelry you already own. Pricing for this service is $55.00. Please allow at least one to two weeks for your authentication.
Appraisal
In order to assess any item with total accuracy, examination and in-depth testing must be performed in person. We offer our years of expertise in the form of a full written appraisal in conjunction with our certified gemologist for the cost of $125.00 for the first piece of jewelry and $100.00 for each piece thereafter. A written report is provided containing a complete range of information about the metals used, gems, date of origin, possible place or origin, and approximate retail, wholesale or insurance value. Best used for selling, buying or insuring your valuables - this report is the most thorough and detailed available today. Not sure if a full appraisal is right for you?
There are four key reasons for an appraisal. Selling your jewelry, insuring your valuables, estate valuations or just to know what your jewelry is worth. The appraiser will ask your specific purpose for obtaining an appraisal. Appraisal values can vary depending on whether it is for insurance replacement, for selling wholesale value or for current retail market value. These are three different estimates of worth.
Many people are concerned about shipping their valuables securely. Read more about registered mail via the U.S. Postal service. Please allow two to three weeks for completion of the report. Whatever your needs, we hope The Three Graces can be of help.
Finding a Local Appraiser
Our offices are located in Texas near Austin and Houston and we do not maintain a retail location. We do need to see the jewelry in person, or have it shipped to us. If you ultimately are more comfortable finding an appraiser in your area, the best solution is to search your local phone books or local internet directory and seek those listed under, "Appraiser" who specialize in jewelry, or under "Jewelers" or "Jewelry" often under the subheading of appraisers. Ideally, you should look for a certified appraiser. Those in smaller towns may need to look in the nearest larger metropolitan area. Don't be afraid to ask about an appraiser's experience with antique jewelry. Some know a great deal, many others only specialize in modern jewelry and know very little. We apologize for any inconvenience but we are unable to make recommendations for appraisers.
Online Resources
The International Society of Appraisers has a website search designed to help you pinpoint local appraisers. Also, the Antiques Road Show website has an appraiser locator you may wish to consult.
Hallmarks & Identifying Marks on Jewelry
Many people are curious to know about marks they find stamped or impressed on their jewelry. These differ from engraving as they usually represent information that might include a maker's mark, city or country of origin, assay office, carat weight of metal, metal identification and more.
One of our most frequent requests is to identify marks on jewelry. Many people do not realize that there are thousands upon thousands of types of marks, some made for centuries and from countries all over the world. Therefore, it is not possible to identify with accuracy many marks, and unfortunately, also not possible to do so without seeing the marks in person. Even then, many marks may remain unidentified.
If you wish to have marks on a piece of jewelry identified, you would need to choose either the "Authentication" or the "Appraisal" services (see above) in most cases. If we receive very clear and in focus photographs of all the marks on the item for identification, then an expert opinion is fine. If we cannot help identify the mark, there would be no charge.
There are books that can help. Many can be found or ordered through a library or ordered online or in a local bookstore. We have provided a helpful listing of books on hallmarks here just scroll down to the section entitled, "Hallmarks".