Emerald & Diamond Ring Appraisal - Expert Evaluation

Question
Hi Peter,

How are you today. You have actually assisted me before with timely and very accurate information.

Here is my situation: Several days ago I noticed  what appears to be a very nice emerald and diamond ring on the ebay webstore of someone that I had initially believed conducted a very professional and upstanding business.  The emerald is over 18 carats in size, and is set with 1.50 carats of white diamonds in 14k yellow gold. I liked the ring, but the vendor was asking $18,000 for it, and so before committing to such an expensive purchase, I contacted the seller, and asked them if they would provide me with an independent third party appraisal from a member of any of the following appraisal societies-ASA, ISA, NAJA,  or AGS.  I was stunned when the seller responded and informed me that he does not have any confidence in any of the aforementioned organizations, and would not honor an appraisal with their official sanction. This individual operates what is supposedly a highly regarded ebay and independent outside store jewelry business (he has a 100% approval rating on ebay), but I have to admit, his statement really made me question both his business acumen in the industry, and his overall trustworthiness. Should I consider purchasing the ring anyway? Any thoughts would be most appreciated.
Thanks so much,
Sincerely,
Joseph A. Supley

Answer
Hi Joseph,

The ring sounds like a real winner. If I was you I would ask the seller who would he recomend? There are many reasons why He might have an ax to grind with these folks. However for this money he should at least provide some kind of further assurance about it's value. Now an independent appraiser like me will charge a pretty penny for the appraisal and this may be why he is hesitating. He should at least assure you he will offer a refund if you get an appraisal and it is unsatisfactory so he doesn't have to commit to the cost of doing it. I am doing an appraisal in Hong Kong right now for which I am getting $9,000 to do, so you can see why they may hesitate. I sold on Ebay for many years and occassionally still do, and I am suree they have a policy that would cover this situation. Don't give up on something as prized as this without a little work, it is probably worth the time. Good Luck

Peter