How Often Should You Re-Appraise Your Jewelry in Hawaiʻi?

Fine jewelry isn’t just beautiful—it’s an investment. Whether it’s a diamond engagement ring, heirloom necklace, or luxury timepiece, your jewelry should be properly appraised to reflect its true value. But a one-time appraisal isn’t enough to protect that value over the years.

At Associated Gemological Services in Honolulu, we’re often asked:
“How often should I re-appraise my jewelry?”
The short answer? Every 2 to 5 years—but there are reasons you may want to do it even sooner, especially in Hawaiʻi’s unique market and climate.

In this post, we’ll explain why regular updates are essential for insurance, estate planning, resale, and peace of mind.

 Market Conditions Change—So Does Your Jewelry’s Value

Jewelry value is tied closely to the global and local economy. Several factors can cause prices to shift significantly over just a few years:

✔️ Precious Metal Prices

Gold, platinum, and silver fluctuate based on market demand. A gold bracelet you appraised in 2018 could be worth considerably more today.

✔️ Diamond & Gemstone Market Trends

Diamond and colored gemstone values can rise or fall depending on mining supply, consumer trends, and global trade conditions.

✔️ Inflation

Even if your jewelry’s materials haven’t changed in rarity, the cost to replace them may rise with inflation—meaning your insurance coverage should increase too.

 Wear and Tear Can Affect Integrity and Value

Even if you wear your jewelry carefully, time takes its toll. Hawaiʻi’s environment introduces unique challenges:

• Salt air and humidity can corrode metals and loosen settings.
• Sand and sun exposure may wear down polish and luster.
• Regular use can cause invisible damage to prongs, clasps, or chains.

A re-appraisal includes a condition check, allowing you to catch and repair small issues before they result in stone loss or permanent damage—preserving both sentimental and financial value.

 Insurance Companies Rely on Accurate, Up-to-Date Appraisals

Most jewelry insurance policies require a recent appraisal to:

• Confirm current replacement value
• Verify item condition and authenticity
• Ensure fair claim resolution if the item is lost, stolen, or damaged

Outdated appraisals could leave you underinsured. For example, if a ring’s replacement cost has risen 30% since your last appraisal, your insurance payout may fall far short in a claim situation.

 When Should You Re-Appraise?

We recommend updating your jewelry appraisal:

• Every 2 to 5 years as a general rule
• After significant market changes (e.g., spikes in gold prices)
• After repairs or alterations to the piece
• When gifting, selling, or including in estate planning
• When switching or renewing an insurance policy

Even if nothing appears to have changed, the underlying value might have—especially in Hawaiʻi’s evolving jewelry market.

 Why Work with a Certified Appraiser in Hawaiʻi?

At Associated Gemological Services, we are certified gemologists who specialize in:

• Jewelry and diamond appraisals for insurance, estates, and resale
• Detailed valuation reports with full photos and documentation
• Assessments that reflect both local market context and international standards

We offer unbiased, independent appraisals that are accepted by insurers and respected across the industry.

 Don’t Let Time Diminish Your Jewelry’s True Value

Your jewelry deserves the same care and attention you give to any valuable asset. Periodic re-appraisals ensure that your most cherished pieces are fully protected, properly insured, and accurately valued in today’s market.

Ready to update your appraisal?
Contact Associated Gemological Services in Honolulu to schedule your professional jewelry re-appraisal today.