Jewelry Appraisals for Divorce Settlements: What You Need to Know
When jewelry is involved in a divorce, emotions can run high – but settlements require clear, objective facts. That’s where a professional jewelry appraisal becomes essential.
An appraisal provides an independent, documented opinion of value, helping both parties and their attorneys make informed decisions without speculation or conflict.
Why Appraisals Matter in Divorce
Jewelry values are often misunderstood. The original purchase price, insurance value, and resale value can be very different numbers. An appraisal establishes a credible benchmark so assets can be divided fairly.
Appraisals are commonly used to:
- Determine community vs. separate property value
- Support equitable distribution or buy-out decisions
- Avoid disputes based on inflated or outdated estimates
- Provide documentation for legal and financial records
What a Divorce Appraisal Includes
A proper appraisal typically documents:
- Metal type and weight
- Gemstone identification and quality
- Designer or brand attribution (if applicable)
- Condition and workmanship
- A clearly defined value type (fair market, replacement, etc.)
Clarity around the purpose of the appraisal is critical—divorce settlements usually require fair market value, not insurance replacement value.
Timing Matters
Appraisals should be done close to the settlement date. Jewelry markets fluctuate, and older appraisals may no longer reflect current conditions—especially for gold, diamonds, and luxury watches.
A Neutral Step That Protects Everyone
A professional appraisal isn’t about favoring one side. It’s about providing accurate, defensible information so decisions can be made calmly and confidently.
Whether jewelry is sold, divided, redesigned, or retained, an appraisal helps turn a sensitive issue into a manageable one—allowing everyone to move forward with clarity.
