There are two things you need to do before you can show off your new engagement ring: first, you need to find the perfect ring and second, the perfect wedding bands. Make sure it's properly valued and protected.
Appraisals are basically a piece of paper that proves the authenticity of the rings you just paid a lot of money for. Unlike the diamond grading report you received from your jeweler, this one is a third-party evaluation. A diamond grading report will provide you with all of the information you require regarding your diamond (like the exact size). However, a jewelry appraisal values the entire ring, including the diamond (and any other stones) and the metal.
Think of an appraisal as an upgraded receipt in the event that your ring is lost or stolen. If you want ring insurance or want to add a rider to your homeowners insurance policy to cover your ring and bands, you'll need it. If your ring is stolen and found by the police, you'll have documentation to use to get it back.
Your ring's value can be determined by a gemologist and an appraiser. A gemologist-appraiser can do both. You may be able to schedule an appointment with an appraiser at some jewelry stores. Please contact the American Gem Society if yours doesn't. If you're looking for a gemologist-appraiser, look for one with a GG credential, which indicates a Graduate Gemologist diploma from the Gemological Institute of America, and specialized training in appraisal. To verify that the appraiser has received formal training and adheres to certain professional and ethical standards, these credentials are required.
The sooner you get your rings appraised, the better. Just in case, we recommend getting it done as early as possible (and just think—the earlier you get it done, the less you'll have to do in the weeks leading up to your wedding!).
To protect the appraiser from liability and to ensure that your diamond is not switched, the appraisal should be performed in your presence. However, in reality, this is not always an option. Don't be afraid to ask for a plot diagram (includes the stone's measurements and internal characteristics) before you hand over your sparkler (for insurance purposes while it is out of your hands; many appraisers have a take-in sheet for this purpose). Using the diagram, you can verify that your ring's stone is the same as the one on the ring.
Your appraisal is likely to be compensated. Depending on the appraiser's experience, the time it takes to complete the evaluation, and how difficult the task is, the fees are determined. Avoid appraisers who offer extremely low fees or those who base their fee on a percentage of your ring's appraisal value or its price. Ask about the minimum fee before you commit, as rates can range from $50 to $150 an hourly. When it comes to pricing, most jewelers use one of three methods: a flat rate, per-item, or hourly.
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