A lady comes to us offering to sell us her jewelry. She says her jeweler says not to accept less than . . .

Most jewelers sell only retail and that is the world they know. Most jewelers do not purchase from the consumer, as they do not want to explain the profit factor. These are the ones that usually provide this information. They do not have a clue of the secondary market (selling from the consumer back to the dealer).

My role is to point out the facts, explain the difference between value and price, give her options (cash, auction, consignment, trade, advertisement), let her think about it, even suggest she go to other sources for her to absorb what's the reality of her situation. If she likes the professional approach, she will be back.

To future sellers, research your appraisers. Get the appraisal that was for your purpose. In this case selling. What could she expect to receive?

Yes it is frustrating to provide ethical sales and stay on top. To myself, I just have to do my best and forget what other people do. To the future personnel . . . maintain your ethics! Please! You will be different and respected! We all have judgment day coming.