Valuable Loose Gemstones & Turquoise: How to Get a Fair Price

Question
My mom just recently passed away, and I'm trying to come up with the money to pay for things, she has a large collection on loose gemstones, ranging from sapphire, ruby, garnet, tourmaline, pink sapphire, the list goes on.  I'm trying to figure out a way to part with these things but my knowledge is limited and i don't want to be taken advantage of.  She was a silversmith, so she was well aware, guess i should have paid more attention.  I don't want to to take them to a pawn shop but i don't know where to start.  Any input would be greatly appreciated.  

Thanks for your time,
Gretchen

Answer
Hi Gretchen,
I wouldn't suggest taking the gems to a pawnshop as they might try to buy it off you at the lowest price possible. Try taking them to a reputable jeweler or appraiser near you. They are more likely to appraise them close to their real value than pawnshops. Hope that helps.