Jewel School, Part 3
Louisville is lucky to be home to several trusted sources for appraising and selling what Ashley Davis calls “previously enjoyed” jewelry pieces. Davis Jewelers charges a starting price of $75 to conduct appraisals on any type of fine jewelry. Price depends upon the number and types of pieces. The appraisers are also happy to conduct estate appraisals for clients who are working with family to fairly divide the assets of an estate.
“You do not necessarily need to have an appraisal to sell your pieces,” Ashley says. “If someone tried selling their pieces on their own, then most people will request an outside, third party to state what the piece is, and the current retail value. This is not necessarily just an assessment of retail replacement value, but often more of a liquidation value. We can look at the piece to determine what competitive, secondary market buy amount you should ask for.”
According to Ashley, Davis Jewelers is typically most interested in purchasing the center stones from engagement rings that match the size, shape, and quality that they typically sell, as well as purchasing certain watch brands like Rolex. While the jewelers will conduct appraisals, they typically refer clients to other local jewelry stores to sell their pieces. To provide a selling option for clients, twice per year Davis Jewelers hosts an in-store event where a third party jeweler is on site to purchase pieces and offer clients payment on the spot.
As for costume jewelry, Judy Champion with 2023 offers customers the option to sell previously owned costume jewelry.
“I do not do written appraisals of costume jewelry, but I will speak to people about their items if they need information about age, value on the open market, and more,” Judy says. “An appointment is advisable for selling if there are a lot of items. Many individuals are surprised at what I offer them because it can be much more than they thought the ‘junk’ jewelry was worth.”
While Judy does not deal in solid gold and other precious metals, she will offer customers several local options such as Nussbaum Antiques for selling fine jewelry pieces.
P.S. Read about sorting jewelry and the jewelry staples you should keep. Also, read about care tips for fine and fashion jewelry.
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