Inheriting jewelry can be an emotional experience. Whether it’s a grandmother’s engagement ring, a vintage gold watch, or a box of assorted heirlooms passed down through generations, these pieces often carry both sentimental and financial value. But while the emotional connection is clear, the true worth of inherited jewelry is not always obvious.
Before making decisions about keeping, insuring, selling, or dividing inherited pieces, your first step should always be a professional jewelry appraisal. At Associated Gemological Services in Hawaiʻi, we specialize in helping clients understand the full picture—so they can make informed, confident choices.
Inherited jewelry can vary widely in material, age, condition, and provenance. Without an expert evaluation, it’s nearly impossible to know:
Whether you plan to insure, sell, donate, or simply keep it in the family, a certified appraisal provides the documented foundation for any next step.
A professional appraisal by a certified gemologist includes:
We assess the metal type (e.g., 14k gold, platinum), stone quality (cut, color, clarity, and carat), and craftsmanship to determine authenticity and value.
We determine fair replacement or resale value based on today’s market—not outdated price tags or family assumptions.
Clear, high-resolution images and a detailed report help support insurance policies, probate cases, or sales.
Older pieces may have unseen damage, loose settings, or signs of wear that affect their integrity or value. We note all of these in the appraisal.
If you plan to keep and wear the jewelry, you’ll want to protect it from loss, theft, or damage. Insurance companies require a current appraisal to write or update a policy.
In estate settlements or family agreements, it’s important to distribute assets fairly. An appraisal gives each party clarity and transparency, helping to avoid disputes.
Before listing jewelry for sale or consignment, you need to know what it’s truly worth. This ensures you price it correctly and don’t settle for less than it’s worth.
If donating the item for a tax deduction, the IRS requires a qualified appraisal for high-value contributions.
Jewelry values can be influenced by location, tourism trends, and the unique island market. Working with a local expert ensures your appraisal is:
At Associated Gemological Services, we’re proud to offer detailed, professional appraisals that are recognized and respected by insurers, attorneys, and estate planners.
While it’s tempting to go by family lore or online estimates, only a professional appraisal can give you the full story behind inherited jewelry. Whether the piece ends up on your finger, in a vault, or in a new home, you deserve to know its true value.
Have inherited jewelry to evaluate?
Schedule your private appraisal with Associated Gemological Services in Honolulu today.
We’ll help you protect what matters—with clarity, care, and expertise you can trust.
