In a professional appraisal, the correct grading of colored gemstones is crucial for establishing a jewel’s true value . Color, clarity, cut, and carat weight form the technical basis of any gemological valuation.
However, when the gemstone is set , the analysis faces objective limitations: reflections from the metal, partial access to the crown and pavilion, or the impossibility of performing complete instrumental measurements. These restrictions necessitate issuing a reasoned estimate, not a conclusive opinion.
According to CIBJO international standards, analyses performed on set gemstones cannot be considered precise or definitive . Therefore, for pieces with particularly significant gemstones—whether due to their quality, rarity, or size—I always recommend accompanying the appraisal with a gemological certificate issued by an accredited laboratory: the IGE in Spain, or international institutions such as GIA, HRD, Gübelin, SSEF, or Bellerophon.
The certificate does not set a price, but it does verify the nature (natural or synthetic), the existence of any treatments, and the gemological parameters with traceability and recognized standards, providing technical and legal certainty to the appraisal process.
A responsible appraisal must include a technical and photographic description of the jewelry, a gemological analysis to the extent that the setting allows, references to comparable market pieces, and, when applicable, an independent certification .
Only in this way can accuracy, transparency, and traceability be guaranteed in transactions involving sales , insurance, or inheritance.
Eva Gómez Virgili · Professional appraiser and gemologist #evagomezvirgili #gemology
