Wholesale Value: this means the average wholesale price that jewelry sellers generally pay

Retail Value: this is very subjective and is usually based on what the average high retail prices are for jewelry. This could vary depending on where you buy jewelry i.e., discount department store or a fine jeweler.

Appraised Value: this is very subjective depending on who is appraising the jewelry. Most appraisers arrive at an appraised value by evaluating the average high retial value of the jewelry sold at fine jewelry stores (not discounted stores). Most jewelers will appraise your jewelry for an amount below your expectations if you did not originally purchase from them.

Replacement Value: again this is very subjective and is usually derived by a gemological laboratory that jewelry sellers use to offer their customers a accurate unbiased opinion and a high value so that a customer may obtain insurance coverage for loss or theft.

Expert Advice: the best way to determine jewelry values is to shop around by comparing quality and prices. Values should not be a factor in your decision to purchase jewelry since they usually have no relevance to actual market prices.