What is the difference between a certificate and an appraisal? A certificate is a document issued by a gem laboratory that describes the quality of a loose gem in terms of origin, color, and clarity and does not imply value. It just indicates whether it is authentic or not. Well, an appraisal, a jewelry appraisal is a different document, it has a complete description and photo of the product, and besides, the description includes value. The value is needed for an insurance policy covering that jewelry or for the division of the estate.
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