A typical jewellery or fine arts valuation involves examining each item to assess the quality and arrive at a value judgement based on current market conditions . While two items may appear identical to the untrained eye, each has qualities that can effect the final valuation.
While two pieces of jewellery may appear identical to the untrained eye, each has qualities that can affect the final valuation.
Different markets may vary enormously and this factor is taken into account by the valuer.
Consumers should only accept valuation certificates that clearly state the purpose of the document - eg insurance, deceased estate, auction, private sale or divorce settlement - and the type of market on which valuation is based. The different markets and reasons for a valuation include:
A detailed assessment that estimates the likely replacement price at a traditional shop. This type of valuation is often used by insurance companies.
The minimum hammer price achievable in an ideal auction market, where time is not a factor. This figure does not include premiums or commissions which can vary at each auction.
An estimate of a reasonable second-hand price between a willing buyer and seller in a fair or specialised market without time constraints.
The price that can be expected when an article must be sold within a short time frame in potentially non-ideal market conditions.
A value for used items that takes into account the condition, desirability and collectability of the item.
A fair and reasonable second-hand price when someone wants to sell an item to a member of the public. In such cases, the valuer acts as an unbiased expert and GST, sales tax or duty is not included in the valuation.
The Family Court may require a valuation of jewellery in a divorce settlement. Written directions are provided by the solicitors with the valuation usually based on “fair market value”, although this may vary.
Again, written directions are provided by the lawyer or executor of the will, with the valuation reflecting the current market value or the requirements of the will.
A quality assessment report is prepared for people who require an accurate appraisal of jewellery without a value statement.
Such reports contain detailed technical information, with the assessments conducted in the same way as a full valuation. They are useful for people wanting to: