Gems are loose stones. Gemologists are needed to accurately identify gemstones.

Jewelry includes items of personal adornment that may or may not include gemstones. To appraise jewelry, additional study beyond basic gemology, including a complete understanding of manufacturing techniques, is required.

Appraisers consider the following categories of jewelry:

Modern: newly purchased
Estate: older than five years
Antique: older than 100 years
Costume jewelry. Until the mid-20th century, no distinction was made between costume and fine jewelry.

Value the Past has expert appraisers in each of the above categories.