Have you just received your Grandmother’s pendant as a gift or inheritance?
Are you troubled by the emotional significance of this keepsake, but probably won’t wear it as it’s not to your taste?
Here are 4 Things you can do…
Sell it outright to an interested party
Donate it to a charity
Send it to an auction sale
Re-design it and enjoy the memories
In each of the above actions, there is a critical piece of information that can help with the decision. It is the value of the item. Emotional value is determined by the recipient, but monetary value is information that requires expertise and knowledge.
Call 713 492 – 1432 or click consultation to reserve 15 minutes of free consultation time to determine your best action.
Why a Free 15 Minute Consultation?
A free consultation points you in the right direction.
For those who which to sell estate jewelry or any fine jewelry or watches, you’ll learn what market price you might expect and even locate a potential buyer for your item. If considering a donation, learn what paperwork you’ll need to document its value. For those selling at auction, find out which auction houses to consider and what to expect. And for those who wish to create a new design or refresh the look of a vintage piece, Mr. Gordon can advise on resources. Grandmothers would approve!
No matter what the trend, or the season, The Jewelry Judge can consult on your purchase before you buy.
Many retailers will hold a credit card while an item is ‘out on approval’ for a few hours while an independent appraiser authenticates and validates the item. Others will accept a return – be sure to check individual store policies to avoid any surprises and beware of ‘final sale’ items.
The Jewelry Judge offers same day turn-around and walk-in appointments (some wait-time may be necessary). Call us at 713 961-1432 to verify authenticity and consult before committing to large dollar purchases. Book On-Line Today!
We look forward to a helping celebrate a happy holiday season with you!
The holiday season is the most important time of the year for retailers. It’s a time when new trends emerge and when special (and sometimes low end) merchandise hits the stores. Here are some trends to watch for – or in some cases, to watch out for.
Synthetic diamonds are everywhere now. Expect to see more of them. Even DeBeers is branding them and promoting the man-made diamonds available in many colors!
They are promoted as less expensive (as they should be) than earth mined diamonds. Be sure to know what you’re buying. Some of these are being offered without disclosing that they are man-made. And branding can make them actually more expensive per carat that earth mined diamonds.
It’s common for retailers to stock up on more inexpensive lines and feature these with a mix of higher quality items. The low prices lure the customer and may be too tempting to resist. Stick to your guns if you value quality and avoid being distracted with ‘lower priced’ merchandise.
Holiday Trend 3:Pandora beads may make a seasonal comeback
This was a fashion fad that has faded, but during the holidays, you can expect to see these come back in their many variations.
These are fun for teenagers, but not really fine jewelry as there is no resale value. Costume jewelry is not an investment.
Great fun and clients love the designer name. Priced under $500, these rings make fun stocking stuffers. Our preference is for vintage Yurman designs – heftier and worth their weight. Generally, we wouldn’t appraise an item valued at less than $1000. Keep in mind that high end brands often have a ‘popular’ line which makes the brand accessible to those with modest budgets.
Holiday Trend 5: Pave Diamonds
Our clients know how much we love diamonds! Not only are no two natural diamonds alike, but no two manufacturers’ designs are alike. There is great variation in the way diamonds are set that can affect the value.
We recommend examining the mountings under magnification to check for smooth and even prongs, level surfaces and of course, tiny nicks. Pave diamonds should also be well matched for beauty and value.
Holiday Trend 6: Luxury Watches
A watch is a timeless gift (couldn’t resist the pun)! We caution our buyers to especially double check when spending thousands of dollars on a luxury fashion item. Be sure your retailer is reliable especially if purchasing estate or pre-owned watches. Even reputable jewelers can make mistakes.
We have found numerous ‘hybrid’ watches that are assembled from various after- market components such as a diamond bezel or replacement crystal faces. These ‘hybrids’ may be attractive, but they will certainly not be as valuable as an all original luxury watch.
Whatever your selection for holiday shopping, don’t forget to verify your purchase with a Jewelry Judge consultation. Convenient appointments Book On-Line – walk-ins available at www.jewelryjudgebengordon.com or call 713 961-1432.
Have you just received your Grandmother’s pendant as a gift or inheritance?
Why a Free 15 Minute Consultation?
Holiday Trend 3: Pandora beads may make a seasonal comeback
Holiday Trend 5: Pave Diamonds 
Holiday Trend 6: Luxury Watches 
Texas Independent Jewelry Appraisers 