Jewelry Appraisal

I recently needed an updated appraisal of my engagement ring for insurance purposes and had a very pleasant experience with Barbara Oliver & Co., located in Williamsville. Previously I had an appraisal completed through a chain jewelry store for $100. The appraised value was about $5,000 more than the cost of the ring which never made a whole lot of sense to me. Before contacting Barbara Oliver & Co., I contacted the store where I had the first appraisal done to learn the cost of the appraisal would now start at $150 which was absurd. After calling a few places I found Barbara Oliver that said appraisals start at $45 - that sounded reasonable. Not only was her store non-intimidating with beautiful pieces of unique, non-cookie-cutter jewelry, but it was rather enlightening. She will not over-appraise your ring. While you may feel good that your jewelry appraised for much more than was paid, keep in mind your insurance premium will be based on the inflated appraisal -- you will be overpaying in premiums. Should you ever lose your ring, the appraised value on your appraisal is nothing but the appraisers opinion and you will not necessarily receive that amount of money to replace your ring. A representative of the insurance company will review your appraisal and determine its fair market value which could be much less than the appraiser's opinion. Therefore, your appraised value should be close to the actual value so you do not overpay in premiums, but should something happen to your jewelry, you receive enough to cover its replacement.

From this one interaction, I would definitely recommend the services of Barbara Oliver and Co.