Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What do you charge for an appraisal?

A. Fees are charged by the hour.

Q. How often do I need my jewelry appraised?

A. Most insurance companies recommend updating every two (2)- three (3) years.

Q. Are you a "Certified" Appraiser?

A. Yes! Jane Chaikowsky is a Certified Senior Member of the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers. A Certified Senior Member is designated when an appraiser has completed all the necessary gemological and appraisal training, has a minimum five (5) years experience, and has passed a closed book four (4) hour examination on appraisal theory, ethics and methodology in addition to a five (5) hour practical examination. Character references and other pertinent information is also required. And as per the NAJA ongoing certification requirements, Jane complies with a minimum of 16 hours of continuing education every year.

Q. How long have you been appraising jewelry?

A. In 1987, I started my career in the jewelry industry. My first job as an appraiser/graduate gemologist for a retail jeweler was in 1991. In 1994, I established Chaikowsky Jewelry Appraisals, an independent jewelry appraisal company.

Q. Do you buy or sell jewelry?

A. No. By not buying or selling, you receive a totally unbiased opinion of value.

If you request selling information at the time of the appraisal, we will assist you and refer you to a potential buyer or other avenue(s) for liquidation.

Q. May I wait and watch my items being appraised?

A. Yes. Items may also be dropped off, mailed or in the convenience of your own residence, office or banking facility.

Q. I need an update on my appraisal(s) for my insurance policy, do you do this?

A. Yes. If the appraisals are from Chaikowsky Jewelry Appraisals, I will re-inspect your items, noting any changes that may have occurred, such as mounting alterations or damage, and update any new and pertinent information. The fee is by the hour. Normally, less time is required due to the fact most information is already in our system.

If your appraisal(s) were done by another company or individual, it is company policy that all items be inspected and evaluated according to the standards used by Chaikowsky Jewelry Appraisals. It is found that many previous appraisals (one pagers in particular) by others lack important information, such as, description of gemstones/diamonds, description of mounting, gold marks, manufacturer marks, diamond plotting diagrams and PHOTOGRAPHS.

Q. Do you appraise other items of personal property other than jewelry, watches and silver flatware?

A. Items that are out of my expertise will not be appraised by myself. I will consult other appraisers who have knowledge and expertise in those types of personal property.

No appraiser should claim to be an expert in everything.

Q. A family member has passed away and I need an appraisal for estate tax purposes, do you do this?

Yes, we perform numerous types of appraisals. They type of appraisal you need is determined by your intended use. Each appraisal states an intended use with its purpose and function. An estate appraisal is different than an insurance appraisal.

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