Important Jewelry and Appraisal
Organizations

Many so-called "appraisers" merely purchase memberships in organizations that have no testing requirements or ethical standards.  For a nominal fee these unscrupulous dealers represent themselves as members of so-called "professional organizations".

What you should look for in an appraiser is membership in nationally recognized appraisal and jewelry organizations that require strict adherence to ethical trade practices,  formal education in gemology and appraisal methodology,  and regular testing for certification.

A Registered Jeweler (RJ) has successfully completed the Society's required examinations and has had a minimum of two years working experience.

A Certified Gemologist (CG) has completed additional gemological training and has earned a graduate gemologist diploma.  Each CG must also have a minimum of three years working experience.

The title Certified Gemologist Appraiser (CGA) is reserved only for Certified Gemologists who have received additional training specific to appraising jewelry.  For a professional fee,  the CGA is able to provide a written report,  evaluating the quality and value of fine jewelry.  An appraisal from a CGA is held in high regard and usually accepted by insurance companies,  banks and courts.

Affiliate Members share common interests with those engaged in personal property appraising,  but are not involved in the appraisal process.  Affiliate Members are not permitted to perform appraisal services or to represent themselves as appraisers.

Associate Members are appraisers who have joined ISA as a statement of their commitment to and their involvement with the appraisal profession.  An Associate Member has not yet completed the ISA certified appraiser program core courses.

Accredited Members are appraisers who have successfully completed the ISA certification program core courses in appraisal principles and procedures,  have passed the accompanying examinations,  and have a minimum of three years appraisal experience or its equivalent through education or business related experience.  Accredited Members may use the appellation ISA after their names and must be re-accredited every five years.

Certified Members are appraisers who have achieved the highest level of membership in the ISA.  The Certified Appraiser of Personal Property designation  (CAPP)  or the Specialist-Certified Appraiser of Personal Property designation  (S-CAPP)  is attained by successful completion of a comprehensive program including:  1)  the ISA core courses  (which emphasizes the legal,  ethical,  and theoretical aspects of appraising),  and  2)  a specialty course which covers the fine points of an appraisal specialty area in which certification is received.  Also required are approved appraisal reports,  approved professional development activities,  and the passing of a comprehensive examination.  Certified Members may use the appellation CAPP (or "S-CAPP" if appropriate) after their names and must recertify every five years.