What to Expect
Appraisals While You Wait
Examination and necessary tests are performed while you watch. Your appraisal is a bound report and includes a full description, a digital image and a plot of all diamonds over half a carat.
You will walk away with your jewelry, and barring anything extraordinary, you will receive the bound report at the end of your appointment.
Estates, Trusts & Equitable Distribution Jewelry Appraisals
Settling an estate or trust often involves jewelry, gemstones, and watches that have been inherited through a will or by inheritance. At San Diego Gemological Laboratory, we provide clear, independent jewelry appraisals designed to support executors, trustees, attorneys, banks, and families who inherit valuable personal property and need accurate documentation.
Each appraisal assignment is customized to the specific purpose—whether required for IRS filing, court proceedings, equitable distribution among heirs, or professional consultation regarding inherited jewelry.
Estate Jewelry Appraisals for IRS or Court Use
When jewelry is inherited as part of an estate subject to federal estate tax or court oversight, a detailed written appraisal report is required to establish fair market value.
These reports are prepared to withstand IRS and legal scrutiny and include:
- Thorough descriptions and gemological analysis of each inherited item
- Fair market value conclusions supported by documented comparable market sales, including auction results when appropriate
- Clear analysis explaining similarities and differences between the subject item and comparable sales, enabling reviewers to understand how value was determined
- Reporting standards suitable for IRS filing, probate court, or fiduciary review
Because estate appraisals involving inheritance require additional market research and documentation, they demand more time and are billed accordingly. Hourly billing or a fixed-price quote for the full assignment is available.
Equitable Distribution Appraisals for Inherited Jewelry
Many estates and trusts are not subject to federal estate tax, yet heirs still need accurate values to fairly divide inherited jewelry and other valuables.
In these situations, we prepare appraisal reports that:
- Identify and document each item received through inheritance
- Establish reasonable market values to support equitable distribution among beneficiaries
- Require less extensive market research than IRS-focused estate appraisals, helping reduce overall cost
These appraisals are commonly used by families, attorneys, and mediators to help prevent disputes and ensure a smooth distribution of inherited assets.
Consultation Services for Inherited Jewelry (No Written Report Required)
In some cases, a formal appraisal report is unnecessary. When clients simply need professional guidance to:
- Identify jewelry that has been inherited
- Understand approximate market value
- Make informed decisions regarding inheritance and equitable distribution
We offer consultation-only services. Since no written report or photography is required, billable time—and cost—can often be significantly reduced. A one-hour minimum applies.
Cost and Billing
- Hourly Rate: $250 per hour
- Applies to estate appraisals, expert witness services, and inheritance-related consultations
- Fixed-fee quotes available upon request
- A contract and retainer may be required
- Payment is due in full upon completion and delivery of the report
