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NAJA accredited Bay Area certified gemologist/appraiser offering certified appraisals. Specializing in mounted and unmounted diamond and colored gems from estate to contemporary jewelry. Qualified through training and experience to render appraisals for certified gemologist, Market Value, Estate jewelry appraisals, Donation, and Dissolution of Marriage. All appraisals are done in a secure and private environment by Rotem Cohen G.G./AJP, member of the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers. All appraisals prepared by Lifeforce Gems are insured by the Craftsman and E and O Policies of Jewelers Mutual. 

Appraising is more than just putting a dollar value on an item. I must be able to not only identify, but witness, estimate status, excellence, and its potential in the market as well as authenticity of an article. I have the knowledge of old style with modern trend. My information is gathered by not only current price guides, but by comparables, and contacts with jewelers, estate dealers, wholesale dealers, and auction houses.

The main approaches to an established appraisal are to identify what type of appraisal. Then to specify the market in which the item is being valued. After we name and support the choice of value approach, we research and establish documentation for the monetary results. Also to offer a full descriptive narration of the article in a manner that it can be easily understood. Lastly to determine and support provenance.

I have undergone all the necessary gemological training, and hold degree and special education in valuation service. This includes buying and selling experience on both a wholesale and retail level. This has familiarized me with the changing market. Independent jewelry appraiser certified to value, identify, and grade diamonds and colored stones. Also precious metals, circa-date jewelry, and watches.  My reports determine manufacturing methods and fundamentally will support the valuations set forth in the report. 

Clientele who have been served by this specialized field may include: jewelry retailers, wholesalers, collectors, general public, investors, insurance agents, auction houses, and state and federal agencies-including U.S. Customs and I.R.S.

I have an office on Piedmont Avenue in Piedmont, but some customers, understandably do not want there jewelry to leave their home, In that case i have a portable laboratory.  Complete with all the instruments needed to complete an appraisal. My lab includes:

-Microscope with darkfield illumination

-Refractometer

-Polariscope

-GIA Master grading set of diamond stones, for color

-Digital micromillimeter caliper

-Metal test kit

-Ultraviolet lights

-Diamond color grading light

-DWT/Gram scales

-Tweezers

-Colored gemstone grading system

-Mandrell

All reports include color digital photography, with an option to e-mail PDF reports. I archive all appraisals in a secure facility, so if one is ever lost or damaged a post loss copy can be issued to you.