Independent gem and jewellery appraiser

Private owners, people settling estates or separations, and insurance brokers or lawyers who need a written valuation.

A fee per item or per hour for each appraisal report, plus extra for larger collections or written updates. Fees are charged for your time and expertise, not as a percentage of the item's value.

• Recognised gemmology training and hands-on stone identification
• Clear, careful report writing
• Honesty and calm client communication

• Professional liability (errors and omissions) insurance, as well as general liability, so check cover for appraisal work
• Check with your municipality whether you need a home-based business licence or if client visits are allowed at home
• Safety when handling valuable items: consider meeting clients in a safe public place and check how your insurer treats items in your care
• Insurers and courts may expect recognised credentials, so check what clients in your area ask for
• Never base a valuation on what the owner hopes to hear, as this protects your reputation and avoids disputes

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on your training, equipment and how you set up your home office and bench. Treat this as a rough range and get quotes before you commit.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $800 to $5,000, depending on how many appointments you take and the kinds of reports you write. Many people start with about 8 hours a week and build from there.

Check professional liability (errors and omissions) and general liability cover for appraisal work. Ask your municipality about a home-based business licence and whether client visits at home are allowed. Also check what credentials insurers and courts in your area expect.