Jewelry Appraisals for Attorneys and Legal Matters

When jewelry is part of a legal or financial matter, a written valuation from an independent appraiser gives everyone the same information to work from. Mayflower prepares USPAP-compliant appraisals for attorneys and their clients.

Different Situations, Different Types of Value

The type of value in an appraisal depends on its purpose, and each report states which one it uses.

  • Fair Market Value (FMV): the price a willing buyer and a willing seller would agree on when neither is under pressure.
  • Retail Replacement Value (RRV): the cost to replace a piece with a comparable one at current retail prices, used for insurance.
  • Liquidation Value: what a piece would likely bring in a quick sale.

What the Report Contains

  • A description of each piece, with metals and stones identified
  • Condition, and any treatments disclosed
  • The type of value, the date of the appraisal and its purpose
  • The appraiser’s signed USPAP certification
“Throughout the litigation process, I was particularly impressed by your timely responses, your thorough analysis of the case materials, and your ability to break down complex concepts in gemology and appraisal methodology into clear, understandable terms.”

Frank J. Liberty
The Liberty Law Firm, LLC

Independent and Impartial

Our appraiser provides valuations only. We do not give legal advice and we do not advocate for either side. Our appraiser does not buy jewelry, so every valuation stays independent of any later sale.

Who Prepares Your Appraisal

Randy Lightfoot: GIA GG; CGA (AGS); CM (NAJA); RGA (USGI); 2026 USPAP Compliant. USPAP, the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice, is published by The Appraisal Foundation.

mayflower estate buyers and consulting

Contact Us Today

Schedule a consultation to discuss your needs and learn how Mayflower Estate Buyers can assist you with reliable and professional trust and estate appraisals in Towson, MD. You can also email us at hello@mayflowerestatebuyers.com and or call us at (410) 236-7088.

Common Questions

Estates and trusts, divorce, insurance and other situations where a written valuation is needed.

Fair Market Value is what a willing buyer and a willing seller would agree on when neither is under pressure. Retail Replacement Value is the cost to replace a piece at current retail prices, which is usually higher. Each appraisal states which one it uses.

No. An appraisal is a written opinion of value. It is separate from our buying service, and our appraiser does not buy jewelry.

The pieces to be appraised, plus any earlier appraisals, receipts, certificates or laboratory reports. A GIA grading report describes a stone’s quality but does not state a value, so it is not an appraisal.

We handle every appraisal with care and confidentiality.

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