(619) 286-6614
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I highly recommend using Thom Underwood to appraise your jewelry. I first became aware of his work on the diamond website, "periscope.com", where two other people recommended him. I was able to coordinate a convenient appointment via voicemail. Thom promptly called me back and was very courteous and professional. The day of the appraisal, he made me feel very comfortable with what he was doing by explaining each step of his appraisal and how he concludes the actual worth of my jewelry. I was nervous about buying a diamond off of the internet, and he quickly assuaged my concerns by matching the diamond to the AIG certificate and by clearly demonstrating its values and flaws. In the end, my diamond was an excellent value and I felt very good not only about my online diamond purchase, but also my choice of Thom Underwood as an appraiser. His work was so good that I decided to come back to him a few days later to appraise the diamond and the engagement ring for insurance purposes. He was just as professional, efficient and timely on the second appraisal.
- G. Evans, San Diego
At San Diego Gemological Laboratory, your appraisal is performed according to the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP), the American Society of Appraisers, and the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers.
We work by appointment and in most cases the appraisal is completed and in your possession at the end of your appointment. Each piece of jewelry is weighed, measured, and described in detail.
Gemstones are identified, graded, measured, and their weights calculated
Metal content is determined.
All diamonds over 1/2 carat are issued a stone certificate, with color, clarity and proportions listed. The internal characteristics of the stone is diagramed (plotted).
Colored gemstones certificates are done for colored stones when appropriate.
Your appraisal includes enlarged digital color photos of the items printed right in the report.
Photomicrographs (photos through the microscope) are available if needed for insurance claims, etc.
Your appraisal explains the grading systems used.
An explanation of the definition of value is included, along with the instructions for the appropriate use of the appraisal document.
In-vault, rush, or on-site jewelry appraisals are available at an additional fee. (Appraisal Fees)
Please feel free to e-mail Thom Underwood, Master Gemologist Appraiser®, if you have any questions.
San Diego Gemological Laboratory - Jewelry Appraisals, 1851 San Diego Avenue, San Diego, CA 92110
(619) 286-6614