Whether it’s an heirloom, a family heirloom, a ring you bought abroad or a piece you’ve worn forever, knowing the true value of your jewels and gems is essential.
Behind every gem lies a history, but also a market, technical criteria and price fluctuations.
Having your jewels appraised is not just a financial matter: it’s a matter of knowledge, transparency and heritage preservation.
And when it comes to obtaining a reliable, recognized appraisal, the Gemological Institute of Montreal (IGEM) is the undisputed reference in Quebec and Canada.
1. Understand what your jewelry is really worth
Many people own jewelry without knowing its exact value.
Between the weight of the metal, the nature of the stones, their quality and the rarity of the model, the differences can be considerable.
➡️ A professional gemological appraisal – such as those carried out at IGEM’s Appraisal Center – can determine :
- the exact nature of the stones (diamonds, sapphires, emeralds, spinels, etc.);
- gemological quality (color, purity, size, weight);
- the weight and title of the precious metal;
- thegeneral condition of the jewel and its authenticity;
- current international market value.
At IGEM, these analyses are carried out by an independent laboratory equipped with state-of-the-art instruments (gemological microscope, FTIR spectroscopy, DiamondView, Gemprint, etc.), guaranteeing a scientific, rigorous and impartial assessment.
2. Essential security for insurance and assets
When a piece of jewelry is insured, the declared value must be based on an accurate and recent appraisal.
In the event of loss, theft or damage, only an appraisal report signed by an accredited gemologist can ensure fair compensation.
IGEM’s appraisals are recognized by insurance companies and comply with international certification standards.
They specify replacement value as new, and can be updated over the years to ensure that coverage is always in line with market reality.
Similarly, in the event of an inheritance, separation or sale, an official valuation by the IGEM Center provides an objective, documented basis, limiting disagreements and enhancing transparency.
3. A decision-making tool prior to sale, conversion or purchase
Before reselling a piece of jewelry, transforming it or melting down the setting, it is crucial to know its true value.
A stone can sometimes be more valuable than the jewel itself, or vice versa.
Thanks to their experience of the market and their scientific eye, IGEM’s experts help private individuals and professionals make informed decisions:
- selling at the right price;
- keep a valuable coin ;
- have a piece of jewelry transformed or restored with full knowledge of the facts.
The assessment thus becomes an advisory tool as much as a technical diagnosis.
4. How is an assessment carried out at IGEM?
- Visit the Institute’s Assessment Centre (Montreal).
- Observation and description of the jewel or stone.
- Laboratory analysis: gem identification, treatment detection, metal verification.
- Determination of value according to demand: market value, replacement value, or verbal opinion.
- Delivery of a detailed report, signed by two gemologists with complementary backgrounds (scientific and commercial).
This dual approach – scientific and market-oriented – is one of IGEM’s hallmarks, guaranteeing assessments that are both technically accurate and economically relevant.
5. Transparency and communication
Having your jewelry appraised also means preserving your history and that of your family.
Each appraisal report becomes a reference document that tells the story of the origin, nature and value of your pieces.
In a market where synthetic stones and treatments are increasingly present, IGEM acts as a bulwark against counterfeiting and misidentification, offering analysis based on science rather than mere visual observation.
It’s also a tool for passing on your wealth: so you can share it with your nearest and dearest with complete clarity.
In a nutshell
Having your jewelry appraised means:
💎 Knowing the true value and nature of your stones.
🧾 Securing your assets and insurance.
💰 Making the right decisions before a sale or transformation.
🔬 Obtaining an independent, recognized and documented appraisal.
And to guarantee the reliability of this approach, the Montreal Gemmological Institute’s Appraisal Centre puts its scientific expertise and market experience at the service of all:
individuals, collectors, insurers and jewelry professionals.
IGEM – science for value.
