Jonty has been working in the jewellery field for more than 40 years, 15 of which he spent in senior positions at Sotheby’s. In 1999, he fulfilled a long-held dream and started his own private consulting business in London. Jonty is a qualified gemmologist and diamond expert and an appraiser for jewellery and watches. He is a diamond broker and gemologist, and is a Registered Expert Witness (Civil) in the United Kingdom.
Mearto offers quick and affordable online appraisals of fine and costume jewelry. Click the "Start Appraisal" button above, follow the steps, and send us information and images. Our specialists will review and provide a fair market and insurance value within 48 hours. Need advice or have questions? Our platform allows chatting with specialists for answers.
We often help customers find the value of their jewelry online. Here are a few online jewellery appraisals that we did:
Jewelry has held cultural significance since prehistoric times, when early humans used materials like snail shells, bird eggs, and bones as beads and adornments. These primitive pieces were more than just decorations; they represented personal expression, social status, and cultural beliefs. Over time, jewelry evolved into a sophisticated art form, often passed down through generations, symbolizing family heritage and personal identity. Many ancient pieces are now considered valuable archaeological artifacts due to their durable materials and historical importance.
Jewelry encompasses a wide range of items beyond just body adornments. It can include accessories that adorn clothing or hair, serve functional purposes, or symbolize status and affiliation. Common types of jewelry include necklaces, bracelets, rings, earrings, brooches, hair combs, cufflinks, and even tiaras. Each piece of jewelry carries its own unique history and purpose, contributing to its overall value.
For a piece of jewelry to be classified as "antique," it typically needs to be at least 100 years old. Antique jewelry is highly valued not just for its age, but also for its craftsmanship, historical significance, and rarity. A notable example is the Pink Star Diamond, which sold for £57.3 million at Sotheby’s Hong Kong in 2017, making it one of the most expensive gemstones ever sold. Owning antique jewelry can be both a financial investment and a connection to history.
Several factors influence the value of jewelry, including:
The value of jewelry can fluctuate depending on various factors. Modern pieces, such as diamond rings, may depreciate over time, especially if trends change or if the pieces are not by a well-known designer. However, vintage and antique jewelry, particularly from eras like the Victorian or Art Deco periods, can increase in value due to their rarity and historical significance. While gold is often considered a stable investment, gold jewelry might lose value if it is melted down or if it doesn't have collectible value.
To assess whether your jewelry is genuine, you can perform several basic tests:
With the rise of digital technology, online jewelry appraisals have become a convenient and accessible way to assess the value of your jewelry. Online appraisals allow you to receive expert evaluations without needing to visit an appraiser in person. The process typically involves submitting high-quality photographs and detailed descriptions of your jewelry, which are then reviewed by certified gemologists or appraisers.
By combining the convenience of online appraisals with the depth of in-person evaluations, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of your jewelry's value. Whether you're considering selling, insuring, or simply curious about a family heirloom, an online appraisal is a valuable first step in the valuation process.
If you're searching for "jewelry appraisal near me," finding a local jeweler or gemologist can provide a reliable way to assess the value of your jewelry. Local appraisers allow you to meet face-to-face, and they can physically examine your items, giving detailed insight into the condition, materials, and authenticity. Many appraisers near you might also offer additional services, such as cleaning or repairs. However, finding a trustworthy appraiser in your area can sometimes be challenging, especially if you don’t live near a major city. Additionally, scheduling appointments and traveling to the appraiser can be time-consuming.
This is where online jewelry appraisals offer a fantastic alternative. With online services, you can skip the hassle of searching for "jewelry appraisal near me" and instead have your items evaluated from the comfort of your own home.
I received a response and information regarding my items in less than 48 hours, which I appreciated. The appraiser was very knowledgable.
Kristal Hicks Torpey
Austin Phillips
I received a quality appraisal in less than 48 hours. I also acquired a second opinion of an industry expert who concurred with Mearto's appraised value.
Todd Roper
