Valuation
Gemstones • Jewelry • Luxury watches
What is a valuation?
A valuation is a formal professional opinion of value, usually provided in writing by a highly qualified and registered valuer after carrying out a physical examination of the item or items concerned. Its purpose is to confirm the authenticity and quality of the property and to determine its monetary worth at a specific date and for a clearly stated purpose.
It should be noted that a valuation is whether a proof of ownership nor an offer that a valuer would charge to get a replacement for the piece or pieces envolved. The subject « valuations » is rather complex and lots of experience is needed to write them.
Independent Registered Valuer (IRV)
A valuation prepared by an Independent Registered Valuer (IRV) carries considerable professional authority and may be relied upon by courts as expert evidence if a dispute arises. For this reason, every valuation must be prepared with due diligence, accuracy, independence, and integrity so that the conclusions can withstand detailed scrutiny if required.
How value is determined
In arriving at an opinion of value, the valuer undertakes appropriate research and analyses relevant market evidence. Consideration is given to factors such as the maker, brand or designer, materials, craftsmanship, age, condition, provenance, and current market demand for the item, whether it is jewellery, silverware, or a watch.
The principal function of a valuation is to provide a reliable and well-supported figure that reflects the appropriate market level for the intended use. Because different purposes require different valuation methodologies, the figure produced is specific to that purpose and should not be regarded as a fixed or universal value. The same item may therefore have several different values depending on whether the valuation is prepared for insurance, probate, division of assets, or another purpose.
Written valuation
A comprehensive written valuation will normally include:
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Date of appraisal
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A transmittal letter clarifying the valuation’s purpose and intent
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A schedule with full description of each item
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Quality assessment data
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Measurements and weights, including gemstone details where applicable
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Photographs
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The stated monetary value
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Explanatory notes
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Notes to the schedule
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Limiting conditions
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The valuer’s declaration and signature
Types of valuations
A valuer analyses the market and the prices in order to then determine the value of a piece. The following are valuation options that clients could ask for:
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Insurance replacement, including categories involved as for example: new replacement value, antique replacement value, new for old, etc.
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Probate
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Division of assets
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Cash liquidation
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Forced sale valuation
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Capital gains tax
Experience
With my 40 year experience in the jewellery trade and in-depth expert knowledge I will be happy to value your gemstones, jewelry or luxury watches. If necessary, I work with Swiss gemmological laboratories to professionally determine the authenticity and origin.
Your jewelry will be fully insured during the valuation.
I will be happy to give you advice and a quote depending on the valuation you wish to have.