Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about out service. Please read through the questions below. If you cannot find a sufficient answer to your question then please contact us.

How do I ship merchandise to AIG?

There are several ways to submit gem & jewelry items to the laboratory for evaluation. If you are located in the Los Angeles area you may make an appointment to come into the laboratory. Or, ship the item(s) to us under neutral cover, double boxed (see detailed shipping instructions) by one of the following: United States Registered Mail http://www.usps.com/, Federal Express http://www.fedex.com/us/, United Parcel Service http://www.ups.com/content/us/en/index.jsx, or Brinks pick up service. Brinks also has drop off windows in major cities worldwide http://www.brinksinc.com. Colored gemstones, diamonds, jewelry, and wristwatches received for evaluation are processed promptly. Once received, our scheduling department will coordinate with you personally concerning the timetable for processing, reporting, plus return delivery or pick up of your merchandise and reports or appraisals. Same day lab services are available on a different fee schedule; ask to speak to an account representative.

How do you grade gems and jewelry in the AIG laboratory?

A team of highly trained gemologists will examine each diamond and or colored gemstone submitted to the AIG laboratory, using the most advanced gemological equipment available. Additionally, a team of highly trained horologists & gemologists examines each wristwatch submitted. Every appraisal and report generated in the AIG laboratory undergoes a complete quality control review by our Quality Control department. These procedures ensure an accurate analysis of the diamond, wristwatch or colored gemstone.

What are qualifications of the AIG Gemologists?

The laboratory staff includes Graduate Gemologists (GG) & Graduate Jeweler Gemologists (GJG) educated by the Gemological Institute of America, http://www.gia.org/. The laboratory staff has over one hundred (100) years of combined experience grading diamonds, colored gemstones and generating appraisals and reports.

How does AIG reach a “Retail Replacement Value” conclusion?

The AIG laboratory uses current market pricing for; creative design, gemstones, labor, materials, and precious metals, along with comparable sales data from local and national retail jewelry stores based in regional shopping malls. The regional shopping mall jewelry store is the marketplace in which the Retail Replacement Value appraisal is used. This value is generally the estimated retail price tag of an item listed for sale in the jewelry store.