Home-Based jewellery valuer

Individuals who need insurance valuations, people updating old valuations, and local jewellers or pawn businesses who want an independent opinion.

A fee per item or per report, often with a minimum fee. Larger collections are charged per hour or per batch.

• Gemmology or jewellery trade knowledge
• Attention to detail
• Clear report writing
• Honest, trustworthy manner

• Professional indemnity and public liability insurance, since a wrong valuation can lead to a claim
• Whether your council allows home-based businesses and client visits at your address
• No single national licence is known to apply, but check which qualifications insurers and your state expect
• Security of valuable items: check how your insurance covers items in your care
• Avoid conflicts of interest if you also buy or sell jewellery

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $4,000 to $12,000, depending on the testing and photography equipment you buy, your home office set-up and any security measures. Your existing tools and training will affect where you land in that range.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated around $800 to $4,000, depending on how many valuations you complete and what you charge for each report. That is revenue, not profit. The estimate assumes at least about 8 hours a week.

Check professional indemnity and public liability insurance, whether your council allows home businesses and client visits, and which qualifications insurers and your state expect. Also check how your insurance covers valuables in your care, and avoid conflicts of interest if you buy or sell jewellery.