What is the best way to clean pearls?
Answered
I have a vintage pearl necklace and I do not want to ruin it.
A diamond certificate (GIA/IGI) grades the stone itself. An appraisal values the whole piece for insurance. They serve different purposes. You need both: the cert when buying, the appraisal when insuring.
Jewelry appraisals cost 50-150 dollars per piece, or 100-300 per hour. Some jewelers do it free if you bought the ring there. You need it for insurance. Make sure the appraiser is a GIA GG or has AJA credentials.