Question 1

What is eligible for coverage?

Accepted Answer

This plan is available only for new items and must be purchased at the same time as the jewelry. Covered pieces include necklaces, pendants, rings, earrings, and bracelets. Loose gemstones are not covered under this plan and must be set to qualify.

Question 2

Are routine inspections required to maintain coverage?

Accepted Answer

Hight & Randall does not require routine inspections to maintain coverage, however, we suggest you have your jewelry cleaned and checked every 6 months.

Question 3

What if I can't find my receipt?

Accepted Answer

Contact us to obtain a copy of the original receipt.

Question 4

What if I'm purchasing a Care Plan to protect a gift?

Accepted Answer

3-year plans are transferrable throughout the life of the plan. Lifetime plans must be transferred to the gift recipient within the first 180 days. ​Contact us to update the care plan record. ​

Question 5

Will this cover loss or theft?

Accepted Answer

While our Care Plan focuses on maintaining your jewelry's brilliance, it's essential to note that it does not cover loss or theft. For higher-value items, we recommend "all-risk" insurance through your preferred insurance company for added protection.

Question 6

How do I cancel my coverage?

Accepted Answer

Contact us to discuss cancelling the plan. You may receive a full or partial refund according to your Terms and Conditions.

Question 7

What exactly is estate vs. antique jewelry?

Accepted Answer

“Estate” is a broad term referring to any jewelry item which has been previously owned. There are several main categories, including:
--MODERN: These are newer pre-owned pieces, from the 70′s to the present.
--COSTUME: Jewelry produced without the use of precious metals or gemstones.
--PERIOD: Jewelry reminiscent of a particular era in history, such as Retro, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Victorian, Edwardian, Georgian, etc.
---REPRO’S: Reproductions of period pieces; copies or newly made from original molds or patterns.
---ANTIQUE: Historically refers to items over 100 years old; however, this term is often used to describe jewelry which is more than 25 years old.

Question 8

I’ve seen “Antiques Roadshow” on PBS. I just might have a fortune locked away in my safe deposit box! How do I know what I have?

Accepted Answer

The best way to determine the value of estate jewelry is to consult with a Certified Gemologist Appraiser (CGA) of the American Gem Society (AGS), or a qualified estate jewelry dealer. Value is based upon many things, but usually revolves around three factors: collectability, condition, and craftsmanship. Collectability is based upon supply and demand. For example, platinum Art Deco diamond rings are currently in high demand. The condition of the piece is very important; as a buyer you may not wish to invest a large amount of money in repairs. Quality craftsmanship is always in vogue; estate and antique jewelry collectors are always interested in well-crafted, high quality pieces.

Question 9

I inherited my great Aunt Millie’s giant diamond cluster ring 20 years ago, and I’ve never worn it. It’s just not me. What can I do?"

Accepted Answer

You may wish to redesign the ring into a piece you would wear and enjoy. That way, you would preserve the sentiment of the original piece by using Aunt Millie’s diamonds. Other options may include consigning the item with an estate jeweler, trading the piece in for something entirely new, or selling it outright for cash.

Question 10

Can I reuse the gold or other metals from a sentimental piece of jewelry?

Accepted Answer

Metals can be reused, but usually with less than satisfactory results. When old gold is melted down and recast, the alloys tend to “clump” together which causes porosity in the finished piece. The end result will have tiny pits; the potential of a “high polish" is not obtainable. It is best to use new metal when possible; accurate compliance with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) karat stamping guidelines can also be properly maintained.

Question 11

Should I have my estate or antique jewelry appraised?

Accepted Answer

Estate and antique jewelry appraisal is a highly specialized field. There are many gemstone “look-alikes” from glass to sophisticated synthetics. The first synthetic emeralds appeared in 1848 with sapphires and rubies close behind in 1885. We tend to think of synthetic gems as recent technology, but they have been with us for several generations. Glass has always been the deceiver of the uneducated eye. We recommend you consult with a Certified Gemologist Appraiser (CGA) who can review your situation and advise you of the best course of action.

Question 12

What is an appraisal?

Accepted Answer

An insurance replacement appraisal is a legal document with the detail and values needed for the insurance company to replace an item in the event of loss or, in some cases, damage.  The document's value lies in the accuracy and detail of each item’s attributes and individual market research for replacement.  Anything less allows debate for an appropriate and comparable replacement.

Question 13

What is included in your appraisals?

Accepted Answer

Some of the considerations that go into the creation of the appraisal document are as follows:
- Each piece is documented separately; such as a pendant and chain are considered two (2) pieces of jewelry if they can be separated one from the other. 
- All metals, even those with a metal fineness stamp mark such as 585 (14k) or 925 (Sterling), must be verified as such and/or tested.
- Items that have diamonds and gemstones have additional steps taken.  They are identified by species and variety, and natural versus synthetic or enhanced.
- Each gemstone is measured to assist in determining weight. The multiple quality attributes are also evaluated, all of which are part of determining value.
- Detailed photography of each item from various angles assists a designer/manufacturer in replacing as close as possible the item(s) in question.  These color photos support the written description, creating a clearer communication.

Question 14

Why should I choose you?

Accepted Answer

Barbara Hight-Randall is a 37 year title holder Graduate Gemologist (GG) by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), 33 year title holder Certified Gemologist, and 24 year title holder Certified Gemologist Appraiser (CGA), tested yearly to maintain that credential by the America Gem Society (AGS). Our gemological laboratory is also certified by the American Gem Society (AGS), the only one in Southeast Minnesota.
Hight & Randall is a member firm, upholding the appraisal standards set down by the American Gem Society (AGS) since 1997.

Question 15

What do you charge?

Accepted Answer

After our no-fee appraisal consultation, we charge by the time it takes to do the work rather than by item or appraised value.  We believe that you shouldn't have to pay the same price for a simple gold chain as an elaborate gemstone ring, or pay a percentage of the final appraised value of the items, which leads to a potential conflict of interest.
Our fee is $275 per hour, which will usually cover several jewelry items depending on the complexity. For example, a diamond solitaire engagement ring including both partners' wedding bands typically takes an hour. Price and time estimates are discussed and agreed upon during the consultation; there are no hidden fees or surprise up-charges.
If you would like a personalized, private appraisal experience where you are able to sit with Barbara while she steps through the complexities of the process, the fee is $325 per hour. During this time, you will have the opportunity to ask questions and be part of the process, getting to know your jewelry from a different perspective and receiving a thorough understanding of the elements of value.
Whether you need an appraisal for insurance replacement, estate, market value, or for dissolution of marriage, the fee arrangement is the same.

Hight & Randall

Personal Jeweler

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