This past month I had opportunities to discuss ASA’s growing role in the appraisal ecosystem and participate in multiple profession and ASA hosted events. I’m also pleased to spotlight exciting news about upcoming ASA real property educational opportunities, ASA’s annual awards and continued success of The ASA Difference branding campaign.
Appraisal Ecosystem
It was great being interviewed by Joanna Pineda for the Associations Thrive podcast and telling the story of ASA and all that we have accomplished and some plans for the future, including how we’re trying to think of ASA as not just an appraiser organization, but a place where anyone from the field can come and be part of the ecosystem. Here’s a page that has links to the podcast networks that carry Associations Thrive podcasts, including the recording of my interview: https://associations-thrive.captivate.fm/
Events
It was also great attending the CBV Institute Conference in Toronto, Canada and talking to a number of ASA members who attended; spending time at The Appraisal Foundation Board of Trustees meeting and activities representing ASA; and also hosting new ASA Board of Governors members at HQ for a meet & greet welcome dinner and leadership orientation.
I am pleased to share exciting news about ASA hosting a new Efficient Appraisal Practice webinar series for practicing real property appraisers. Topics to be covered will include:
Real property appraisers will also have the opportunity to earn the appraisal profession’s only real property ‘Going Concern’ specialty designation. Register for these ASA virtual classes:
ASA opened nominations for its 2023 annual awards. Nominations must be submitted by July 15, 2023. Winners to be announced at the 2023 ASA International Conference. Show your appreciation by nominating a member who’s made a difference.
Continued Success
Lastly, it is great to see our members continuing to promote The ASA Difference by incorporating it in all of their marketing platforms. Our Regional Governor, Scott Miller, is using it on his business card. Other past examples of member usage can be viewed here. For more information about the campaign, click here.
By Carol Akers Klug, ASA, with contributions by Susan Golashovsky, FASA
Appraisers may not be aware of what ASA’s Educational Foundation (ASAEF) does to sustain our profession and aspiring appraisers. Below is our vision that education provides a path to membership in the appraisal profession, and hopefully to ASA.
“Believe me when I tell you it’s been a bear to raise funds. Please know how appreciative we are at the ASAEF for your support.” COVID and the general financial climate clearly damaged the ability of people in, and trying to enter, our profession among all disciplines. These events caused an influx of people needing and looking for grants to help them advance, or change careers. “We see this as a window of opportunity to drive (or sustain) membership through the funding of grants. Not a particularly pleasant fact, but necessary for all concerned.”
Initially, the Silent Auction was ASAEF’s only fund raiser, and donations contributed by members were and still are nominal. By June 2021, ASAEF had $260,000 in assets, a nominal sum, given our over 5,000 members. In an effort to increase revenue, ASAEF initiated grants for the development of appraisal education text books which added royalty income from the following:
BV’s Valuing a Business, 6th Edition–grant for development of Shannon Pratt’s appraisal primer which is a required text book for BV POV courses.
PP’s Coming Soon Personal Property Discipline Book, 1st Edition–grant for development of its first Principles of Valuation (POV) text book, which will replace its white papers;
ASA’s Coming Soon Shannon Pratt’s Lawyer’s Business Valuation Handbook, 3rd edition–grant for development of an appraisal primer for attorneys, an industry source of referrals of valuations to appraisers in all disciplines;
ASAEF continues to provide needs-based grants to aspiring appraisers which hopefully will lead to new certified appraisers. Here are a few of their stories:
Grant for PP201 POV course for new chapter member. (ASAEF considered the applicant was unemployed yet committed to join ASA.)
Grant for BV203 POV OnDemand course for applicant in South America. (ASAEF previously had provided BV201 and BV202 grants to this applicant. ASAEF considered applicant’s country suffers high inflation and foreign currency crisis, and there is an active chapter in said’s city.)
Grant for GJ201 POV course for applicant in Asia. (ASAEF considered this applicant is working for a national GJ authority, and residing in a country with high inflation and foreign currency crisis.
Grant for GJ202 POV for applicant in Asia. (ASAEF previously had provided a grant to this applicant for GJ 201. Applicant is working for a metals testing firm, and has taken courses at the GIA.)
Grant for GJ201 POV courses for applicant in Asia. (ASAEF considered this applicant had completed GJ training courses in London, India, and GJ103 Fundamentals of Jewelry Appraisal. Applicant is also taking GIA courses, and working in a jewelry testing lab in a country that suffers high inflation and foreign currency crisis.)
Please join ASA-EF’s List of Donors by contributing an ITEM to its Online $ilent Auction or CA$H always works – or Bid with Vigor! It’s easy – just click here or e-mail caklug@swbell.net
Carol Akers Klug, ASA, is an accredited senior appraiser specializing in business valuation. She has been an active member and volunteer of ASA for over 30 years, most notably serving as Co-Chair of ASA Houston’s Energy Valuation Conference, ASAEF Board Member, Region 3 Governor, President of ASA’s Houston Chapter and International Virtual Chapter, and on numerous committees on the international level. She currently is a member of the ASAEF board, member of the Business Valuation Resource Panel for The Appraisal Foundation, and Co-Chair of ASA Houston’s Energy Valuation Conference. In 2021, Carol was voted ASA’s Appraiser of the Year.
The ASA Elections for the 2023-2024 International Officers have come to a close!
Congratulations to ASA’s newly-elected International President, Garrett Schwartz, ASA, CEA; International Vice President, G. Adrian Gonzalez, ASA; and International Secretary/Treasurer William Engel, ASA; as well as our new Discipline Governor and Discipline Committee Officers, and Members-At-Large who will officially take office July 1st. We are honored to have such dedicated experts on board and we’re eager to support the innovative visions that will continue taking ASA to the next level. View our complete list of new ASA 2023-2024 volunteer leaders here.
ASA has also successfully completed its 2023 Member Needs Assessment. Thank you to the 700+ members who participated. The feedback received will be used in upcoming strategic planning. Another congratulations to respondent drawing winner Robert L Weaver, ASA, from Gastonia, NC who won a free registration to the 2023 ASA International Conference in New Orleans. Looking forward to meeting Robert in person in New Orleans.
I had the pleasure of attending the ASA Australia Chapter meeting in Hunters Valley, Australia at the beginning of last month. It was truly enjoyable to connect with the members and gain insights into the Australian market. The program, organized by Shane Miller and Craig Bowring, was executed flawlessly. I eagerly look forward to future opportunities to visit and engage with the chapter once again.
Earlier this month I also had the opportunity to attend the esteemed Appraisal Foundation Board of Trustee meeting and engage in various activities while proudly representing the ASA. The experience was filled with valuable interactions, insightful discussions, and promising developments that are poised to shape the future of our profession.
The Appraisal Foundation has begun its annual search for qualified candidates to serve on the Appraiser Qualifications Board (AQB) and the Appraisal Standards Board (ASB). Application Deadline is August 1, 2023. For more information, click here.
It was great participating in another outstanding Energy Valuation Conference that was presented by the ASA Houston Chapter. The conference had over 250 attendees from 24 states and 7 different countries, as far away and as diverse as Kazakstan, Poland, Dominican Republic, Hungary, Germany, Canada, and US. Additionally, it was a wonderful experience to have the opportunity to personally celebrate the event’s resounding success alongside some of the dedicated and hardworking members of the planning committee: Michael J. Morgan, ASA ARM/BV; Carol Akers Klug, ASA; Laurie Leigh White, ASA; Alan B. Harp Jr., ASA, Atiba Henry, Karl Bartholomew, ASA; Tim Stuhlreyer, ASA; Ray T. Garcia, ASA; Robert S. Svoboda, ASA; Michael R. Crismyre, ASA; James Herr, ASA. Congratulations on another unforgettable and smoothly executed event!
Posted in May 24, 2023 ¬ 3:01 pmh.adminComments Off on The Critical Skills ‘Beyond Valuation’ that New or Younger Valuers from All Disciplines Need Today
A multidiscipline spotlight on ASA’s Professional Development and Growth Conference.
ASA’s 2023 Beyond Valuation – Professional Development and Growth Conference is coming June 8. Here’s why you need to attend.
Did you know the valuation profession is in a state of rapid change? Yes, a massive shift in the workforce is occurring due to aging senior professionals and ever-changing economic factors, technology advancements, and shifting demand by consumers. Younger valuation professionals need an edge beyond learning the fundamentals. They need to develop the soft skills beyond valuation to take their careers to the next level.
To learn more about this trend, we sat down with six senior, expert valuers from different disciplines to learn more about why this type of training is important.
“The valuation profession offers tremendous opportunities for new or younger appraisers. Whether you’re looking to join a firm or start your own, the need for soft skills beyond valuation is critical for success. Training programs like those offered by ASA help to accelerate your development process, and connect you with leading experts for networking opportunities.”
“After almost 40 years in providing business valuation, financial forensics and economic damages assessments I applaud ASA for producing the upcoming Beyond Valuation: Professional Growth and Development webinar on June 8. I continue to mentor member of our BVFLS team and others on the importance of building a personal brand as part of one’s overall career path in the profession. Often our key professional staff are kept so darn busy with chargeable work that we don’t adequately allow them to pause and reflect on what else needs to be attended to over time for their overall holistic satisfaction in their professional development. This venue appears to offer a lot of the blocking and tackling tactics needed to accomplish this. I know a couple of the presenters who are perfectly positioned to share some best practices tips I suspect will be useful to most anyone looking to ‘pull it all together’ to optimize the growth and development of their practice and their brand recognition.”
“Learn all you can about everything. Ask lots of questions and be thorough. Learning appraising will make you a much better business person and vice versa. Since you are your brand, your word is everything. SO KEEP IT. Don’t forget, life is all about relationships. So make as many as you can!”
‒Mark Sandler, ASA, MGA®, Designer Jewels
“Demand for qualified appraisers has never been greater, but finding and/or developing such professionals is difficult. Critical skills like those covered in this training event are valuable and directly increase the marketability of those new to the profession or just getting started and looking for new career opportunities like those being offered now by our firm.”
“I think this type training is important because young valuers may not be aware of the details and requirements of the profession. Getting additional information and insight outside of the traditional classroom structure would create a broader understanding of the profession, overall.”
‒Deborah Dunner, AM, M.A., Founder and Owner, Aesthetica Art Services
“Appraisal theory and a highly experienced mentor, as well as this type of training in a young valuer’s professional development helps translate the crucial skills learned into practice and vitally important to becoming a successful member of the profession.”
‒David Doering, ASA, IFA, President Missouri Property Appraisal, Inc.
Don’t miss out on this critical training event. Register online for ASA’s 2023 Beyond Valuation – Professionals Development and Growth Conference at https://bit.ly/44LbWvb or by calling (800) 272-8258.
Posted in May 22, 2023 ¬ 10:39 amh.adminComments Off on ASA President Richard Berkemeier’s William G. Congdon Art Collection Featured at Rhode Island Exhibition
ASA President Richard Berkemeier, a Rhode Island base Machinery & Technical Specialties Appraiser specializing in aircraft valuations and also a William G. Congdon art collector, recently loaned pieces from his private collection for an exhibition entitled “A Life’s Journey: A Collection of Works of William Congdon”, presented by the Portsmouth Abbey School’s McEvoy Gallery.
Berkemeier’s pieces, along with pieces from other collectors featured in the exhibition, included various sculptures, drawings and paintings from 1935 to 1996, with a majority representing a significant 25-year span of Congdon’s career.
A sample of William G. Congdon’s work displayed at the exhibition was spotlighted on Portsmouth Abbey School’s Facebook page. As noted in the post, the drawings were recorded while serving as an ambulance driver in WW2, being one of the first responders to enter the Bergen Belsen concentration camp after its liberation in 1945.
Additional samples of the exhibit were also showcased in a special video promotion hosted on the school’s YouTube channel, including these three:
Berkemeier was also spotlighted in the video promotion and spoke to Congdon’s background, style, and what he liked about the artist’s work. View Berkemeier’s interview here.
When asked about his passion for Congdon’s work, Berkemeier mentioned he liked how each piece is quite unique and not copied from somebody else; how the artist was the cream of the crop for his era and genre; his extraordinary travels and coverage; and how Congdon’s work is engaging.
The 2023 ASA Personal Property Appraisal Symposium was recently held at the Kimpton Canary Hotel in downtown Santa Barbara, California. The Symposium had nearly 75 people in attendance, including 20 speakers presenting on a broad variety of topics covered over the course of 2 days.
Rooftop welcome reception. Photo provided by: John Russell, JD
The event started at the Kimpton Canary Hotel’s rooftop where guests checked in and attended a welcome reception surrounded by the beauty of Santa Barbara. The first day started with breakfast and opening remarks by Symposium chair Holly Mitchem. Presenters throughout the 2-day event spoke on numerous topics ranging from 20th Century California Fine Art Photography to the history and impact on movements and art of the West Coast.
A brief history of the American Riviera. Photo provided by: Lela Hersh, ASA
The first presentation, titled, Welcome to Santa Barbara: Experience the History of Americas Riviera with Emily Alessio of the Santa Barbara Historical Museum, gave a broad overview of the history and material culture of Santa Barbara. She was followed by Dr. Pamela Jill Huckins with The Arts In California and the Missions. This session took a look at the historical scope of art in California beginning with the arts of the indigenous Chumash people and then covering Spanish colonial art, the development of its market and its private and institutional collectors. Following Dr. Huckins was Michael Dawson who spoke about Understanding the Market for 20th Century California Fine Art Photography. Michael provided an overview on key California photographers and discussed how variations in signatures, photographic papers, and aesthetic approaches affect the value of their photographs. Picking up where Pamela Huckins left off, Jennifer Wilson spoke on The Golden Coast of California: Art & Design of The West. Jennifer discussed the history of art and design in California following the gold rush, emphasizing its role as a marketing tool for settlement.
A great first day with diverse line up of sessions and speakers. Photo provided by: Peter Held, ASA
After a brief lunch break, the Symposium resumed with the fourth speaker of the day, Olivian Cha presenting on Come Alive: The History of Corita Kent. Olivian discussed the life and work of the artist, educator, and social justice advocate, Corita Kent. The presentation went into detail about Corita’s unique approach to silkscreen prints and the commercial representation of her work. Following this presentation was The Limitless World of Limited Editions: California Fine Art Publishers presented by Debra Burchett-Lere. Debra discussed the history of printmaking in California, focusing on the historic and contemporary print publishers while highlighting publishers that continue to expand the limitless creative processes of this medium.
The final session of day one was How Big is Big? Managing Large and Complex Assignments by Stephanie Boris, Analee McClellan, ASA and Andrea Roth, ASA. This session discussed the approaches to managing significant assignments, highlighting common elements including identifying the scope of work, managing client expectations, determining experts and team members, handling changing elements, and delivering the final report.
Day two of the symposium. Photo provided by: John Russell, JD
Day two of the Symposium began with a presentation by Patty Ross on Creating a Marketing Plan to Grow and Scale Your Business. Patty spoke about the importance of having a good marketing plan in place to be successful and provided attendees with a roadmap to bring their businesses success. Following Patty’s presentation was Mexican American, Chicano/a, Latinx and What Comes Next moderated by Patrick H. Ela, ASA with presenters Angel Diaz, Rafael Barrientos Martinez and Dr. Denise Sandoval and Dr. Susana Smith Bautista,. This panel discussion focused on the past 50 years of development of political, social, and artistic recognition of Hispanic artists in California, particularly those of Mexican heritage. The presentation focused on the Mexican-American based movements on car culture, art, cultural and lifestyle changes in California, as well as how they have influenced or are currently influencing markets, and predictions of future collecting trends.
After a brief lunch break, Rick L. Schwartz began his session on Billing and Fee Policies for the Professional Appraiser. Rick informed attendees of the best strategies and practices for billing and fee policies for appraisers, including reviewing fee agreements, preparing and delivering invoices and addressing psychological aspects of the billing process from both the appraiser and clients’ viewpoints. Following Rick was The Government Wants You to Succeed! How Laws, Regs, and Court Cases Make YOU More Marketable plus NFT Update presented by John D. Russell, JD. John suggested potential talking points and marketing aspects to help ASA appraisers stand out from other professionals. He provided a handout exercise to attendees for documenting their accomplishments and emphasizing their skillsets.
The final speaker of the 2023 Personal Property Appraisal Symposium was Leslie Wright, Chairman, North America at Bohnams, presenting on Auction House Mergers and Outlook for Collecting. Leslie covered the recent consolidation of auction houses and provided an outlook on the market and collecting, highlighting growth opportunities in the industry.
Altar at the Santa Barbara Mission. Photo provided by: Susan Golashovsky, FASA
Once the Symposium had concluded, the event was over for some, but not for all! The post-event tour day began on Wednesday where we toured the beautiful city of Santa Barbara. Attendees enjoyed a private tour of Mission Santa Barbara, observed the art in the Santa Barbara Museum of Art and walked through the Santa Barbara Courthouse and visited Sullivan Goss Gallery and other downtown Santa Barbara galleries. The tour ended at the Santa Barbara Historical Museum with a private tour of their collections, followed by a wine reception in its historic courtyard.
We would also like to thank those who volunteered, those who presented, and those who attended this year’s 2023 Personal Property Appraisal Symposium!
Here’s some notable attendee comments including posts to ASA’s new online community, ASAConnect:
“Great to see old friends, make new ones and hear terrific speakers. And the weather is holding out well for lunches on the roof with great views of the area. This is a great success!” –Sandra Tropper, FASA
“Great day of conference speakers today, enjoyed the diversity of topics. Perfect setting to see colleagues and make new friends.” –Peter Held, ASA
“Relaxing at lunch after a very gratifying morning. “Art in California and the Missions” with the brilliant, Dr. Pamela Jill Huckins, then a basketful amount of new info by my new friend and colleague Michael Dawson about key California photographers and finally “The Golden Coast of California: Art & Design of the West” by John Moran Auctioneers specialist.” – Lela Hersh, ASA
“Today we saw views from the Mission, the clock tower with talk on clock works, art museum tour (great Asian arts section) plus a tour given by the generous and knowledgeable docent, Maria Cabrera. We also went to galleries, the History Museum for tour and reception, and ended with a relaxing dinner with dear friends.” –Susan Golashovsky, FASA
“The talks were very good, varied and full of information that included sessions on connoisseurship, the market, and managing our businesses. The conference was well run and full of information. Thank you.” –Darcy Tell, AM
To view the full album of photos from the 2023 Personal Property Symposium, click here.
The IVSC Advisory Forum-Working Group (AFWG) just concluded their first face to face meeting since 2019 at the RICS Headquarters in London. Valuation Professional Organization Representatives attending from left to right were Gilles de Courcel from France; Aida Dedajic from The Appraisal Foundation; Ben Elder from United Kingdom; Val Chiasson from the Appraisal Institute; Dave Bunton with The Appraisal Foundation; Jack Beckwith with ASA; Reiner Lux from Germany; Leandro Escobar from Spain; John Martin, AFWG Chairman, from Australia; Karen Lusnic from Slovenia; Robert Hecek, our visiting guest from WAVO; John Clote from South Africa; and Muath Alkhalaf from Saudi Arabia.
Nick Talbot, CEO, gave opening remarks on the state of the organization. IVSC is financially in stable condition although some IVSC membership organizations did not survive the pandemic. Our members and sponsors of IVSC have grown to over 200. The IVSC has opened an Asia office. The IVSC has a three-year agreement to increase to three staff over three years. The IVSC Asia committee is focused on outreach and the IVSC is in early stages of exploring if a similar regional office can be set up in areas such as Middle East and Africa. The IVSC has several board members leaving the boards and has gained several new trustees. He added that the IVSC engagement with IOSCO continues.
Richard Stokes, Marketing and Communications, introduced the new IVS Branding campaign, while Alexander Aronsohn, Director of Technical Standards for Tangible Assets presented the “IVS Exposure Draft Apr-23” and the “IVS Exposure Draft Apr-23 Summary and Consultation Questions”. The IVS Exposure Draft Consultation is now open to our ASA Members and can be accessed via the following link: https://www.ivsc.org/consultations/ivs-exposure-draft-for-consultation-2023/
Talbot asked if each of IVSC members could comment on the standards. The greater the feedback, the better the quality of standards. There will be a vetting process through July of 2023 where there can be a basis of conclusions on how the Board discussed the feedback and can move to make a decision. Talbot emphasized the importance that the valuation profession gets recognized by leaders and regulators in the industry. There are often no requirements to become a valuator which is not in the public interest. IVSC views partnership with professional organizations and partners to be important. The IVSC has had engagement with other regulators around the world. In Singapore, the IVS is well embedded. The IVSC has engagement with tax authorities, and there is increased engagement with the UN. The IVSC has a meeting with IMF in Washington DC, which also helps with capacity building and help make recommendations for standards and professionalism around the world.
Our group discussed key points for growing the profession globally are noted below.
Concentrated and continuous campaign to make the public aware of the benefits using qualified appraisers, for what is in most cases is the largest investment they will ever make in their lives, the purchase of a home.
Diversification and inclusion of all who aspire to enter our fields of expertise by reconsidering and developing meaningful and inclusive paths to obtaining education, experience, and employment.
Developing relationships with education institutions at the high school and university levels that can 1) inform students about career opportunities in the profession, and 2) coordination of entry level appraisal education to allow students a head start in obtaining required education and experience.
There was an overall agreement by our group that our VPO Members face similar challenges with an aging population and the need for global standardize training and education. Talbot was impressed with ASAs efforts to offer free membership to students, hosting in-person and virtual networking events, establishing special business valuation student club program for college students to learn more about the BV profession, and expanding ASA’s mentoring program.
John Martin led the members through a draft of a Growing Recognition of the Valuation Profession Globally paper and asked the members to discuss the following questions with their VPO:
Do we need a more globally recognized valuation profession?
Do VPOs want it?
What’s in it for VPOs?
What are the barriers to success?
Jack Beckwith, ASA CEA, serves as ASA’s representative to the IVSC. He has performed and supervised valuations throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Europe, as well as published articles for various valuation topics in Equipment Finance Advisor, the M&TS Journal, and the ASA Professional. In addition, Jack has been an instructor for ASA teaching Principle of Valuation courses. Honorariums include: ASA International Conferences Presenter and ELFA Annual Conventions Presenter. He can be reached at beckwith@eagi.com
It’s been an exhilarating few weeks at ASA, with a range of exciting initiatives and member participation that have truly captured the spirit of our organization. From event collaboration to increased member participation, all of ASA has been hard at work raising awareness and driving positive change.
Earlier this month, I participated in the 21st Annual NAFA/ASA Aircraft Appraisal Education Program in Key Largo, FL; which was held in conjunction with the National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) 51st Annual Conference. During the NAFA conference, I was able to moderate an outstanding panel session that included George Kleros, our International President Richard Berkemeier, and Joe Zulueta. Thank you to Conference Chair, Louis Seno, ASA and everyone that helped create yet another spectacular event with a fantastic lineup of session topics and speakers. I look forward to more ASA/NAFA collaborative initiatives in the future.
I also appreciated spending time at the ASA Automotive Specialty group’s meeting in Denver, CO this past month. I learned a lot about the latest trends, technologies, and methodologies related to valuing vehicles, as well as deeper insight into market conditions, specific valuation techniques, and emerging issues in the automotive industry.
In addition to spreading awareness of ASA through in-person event participation, this month ASA HQ has also been busy solidifying ASA’s online presence with the launch of 2 more foundational building blocks to better support its members virtually.
ASA and the MTS Committee were thrilled to announce that the MTS Journal is now available in a brand new, online, searchable, archive format. This much-anticipated feature has been years in the making and has been achieved through the relentless efforts of countless individuals. Not only can subscribers access the latest journal content, but also they can browse through the complete MTS Journal Archive, dating back to the 1980s. This launch has been in the works for quite some time – congratulations and great job to everyone who helped make this happen!
The ASA Staff has also been keeping busy with the launch of ASAConnect, a new online social platform tailor-made for ASA members.
This launch has also been generating a lot of excitement, and we are committed to fostering a culture of involvement and shared purpose, especially as the economic climate continues to shift.
ASAConnect was launched to replace the former Listserv and aims to make it easier for our members to stay connected. We’re thrilled to see a growth in members who are joining and using this new online community; and to see seasoned members networking with new members from all over the world. This is exactly what the industry needs to continue moving forward. We encourage all members to start connecting with ASAConnect and take advantage of its networking opportunities.
In addition to capitalizing on the MTS Journal Archive and ASAConnect, we’ve also seen quite a few members follow our lead in raising awareness by using the ASA Differencemarketing toolkit for themselves and/or businesses – yes! There’s power in numbers – and our Society has them.
While having lunch with the ASA Chicago Chapter Leadership, ASA member Natasha Perssico Escobedo, MBA, CPA, ASA-BV showed me her new business card, a creative way to incorporate the ASA Difference into her own marketing. I love seeing our members using the material we developed to help create awareness about ASA and the importance of hiring an ASA-accredited member. We appreciate the support and let’s keep this momentum!
Throughout the years, we’ve had a number of impactful members exhibit long and outstanding support and efforts to ASA and the profession. This month, we were also pleased to announce the winners of the 2023 ASA Lifetime Achievement Award.
Congratulations to: Jack Beckwith, ASA,Charles Carmona, ASA,Roger Grabowski, FASA,Robert C. Schlegel, FASA, and Nancy Stacy, ASA, MGA® (awarded posthumously). This is a momentous occasion and a true testament to your hard work, dedication, and contributions to your field over the years. Thank you for your commitment to excellence and for setting a high standard for others to follow.
Winners will be recognized during the International Awards Luncheon held at the 2023 ASA International Conference on Monday, October 2, from 1:30-2:30pm ET.
Once again, congratulations to these 5 members on this remarkable achievement – well deserved!
I’m confident this remarkable participation ‘theme’ will uphold next month, as elections for new ASA international officers is set to begin May 12 – 30th. I encourage all eligible voting members to review the election policies and processes. ASA will be using eBallot again this year, an independent and secure online voting platform, to manage the process.
The do’s and don’ts of buying gems and jewelry away from home.
By Juanita Addeo, ASA, Master Gemologist Appraiser® and Barry Block, ASA, Master Gemologist Appraiser®
As appraisers, we see many clients with items of jewelry bought while on destination vacations, including quite a few from cruise ship vacations. More often than not, the story does not have a happy ending. For our vacationing friends (as well as others traveling on business), our advice is simple: If you want to buy gems or jewelry away from home, especially on a cruise, do so because you’ve fallen in love with the piece or as a memento of your vacation, but never buy jewelry for the purpose of “investment.”
The cruise ship travel industry is vast. According to Cruise Industry News, cruise ships carried an estimated 27.8 million passengers and that number is expected to increase to a whopping 38.7 million by 2027. The industry revenue for 2023 is expected to be $25.14 billion and will rise to 35.87 billion by 2027 – that is ‘b’ as in Billion. These statistics present a titanic (if you will excuse the pun) opportunity for deception and puffery from jewelry stores affiliated with the travel business, and vacationers looking to be “entertained.” The numbers suggest that the cases we hear about may only be the tip of the iceberg (again, excuse our reference!).
Do Your Research Before You Go
Even if you aren’t planning on buying gems or jewelry, arm yourself with some information regarding the establishments that you are likely to see at your ports of call. Find out if there have been any problems for previous travelers. Below is a partial list of helpful consumer sites and blogs that should be reviewed before you go. Some of these sites were started by travelers themselves who, unfortunately, learned the hard way.
Disregard the claimed “values” expressed by the seller – they want to sell you something after all, and they know you won’t be back anytime soon! Use logic and common-sense guidelines. Common sense, as in RED FLAG: a salesperson claims the item is valued (or should appraise) at $15,000 but is going to sacrifice it to you for just $5,000. Think about it, if it is ‘worth’ $15,000, why would they sell it for $5,000? It’s just not logical.
It’s not “value” if it’s overpriced to begin with! Some sales people are trained to lure you with sizzle, rarity or exclusivity, perhaps to meet a quota and to close the sale despite whatever objection or resistance you may voice. They are expecting you to haggle, and if you don’t, they win-if-you buy.
Don’t be tempted to trade in your older pieces of jewelry unless you’re prepared to do so. Your guard is usually a bit more relaxed while on vacation. (Save the Mai-Tais for after the shopping trip!) You might be lulled into doing things you wouldn’t normally do. Get a current appraisal of items you want to trade before going on your trip. Odds are you can get more for your old jewelry at home. An American Society of Appraisers (ASA) Gems and Jewelry appraiser can advise you as to how much you should expect to get for your trade. Know before you go!
Exclusive Or In-Store Branded Jewelry
Unless it is a brand that you recognize that is sold in well-known stores around the world, beware. These ports-of-call stores pay for exclusive branding rights so they can charge whatever they like, and their products usually prove to be a poor value in other markets.
Seek the advice of an Accredited Jewelry Appraiser before you go. Finding an accredited, independent jewelry appraiser is simple: go to ASA’s website, www.appraisers.org and do a “Find An Appraiser search in the Gems and Jewelry Discipline using your zip code.
Read The Fine (Faded, Light, Tiny, Copious) Print
Read the “guarantees” and “return” policies! Particularly if they are conditional. Be careful here; Some sellers will offer a “guarantee” that states something like; “If the item appraises for less than we sold it for, we’ll give you your money back.” What if the diamond appraises for what you paid for it or a even little more, but the quality grades are not as stated? For instance, the ‘I’ color diamond you thought you purchased grades as ‘K’ color? You won’t be able to get your money back because the condition on the back of your receipt states that there are no returns for diamonds unless they grade at least 2 color grades different. These are conditions! Don’t buy unless all conditions are removed! If you can’t get an unconditional guarantee from a would-be seller, make a purchase from someone who will.
Check the back of the sales receipt for a contract before signing a sales receipt. Ask yourself-why would I be asked to sign a sales receipt in the first place? Turn the receipt over and see if you are agreeing to the seller’s “sales contract” at the same time.
Such a seller will not make it easy for you to make a return. It is not unusual for large stores to throw up smokescreens in order to discourage you from returning an item. They might state that they won’t take it back because they won’t know if the item is the same as what they’ve sold. Or, if you’ve had an appraisal, they might say that the appraiser is not “independent.” They won’t return your calls, or they might insist that you get another laboratory report or yet another appraisal. This will not only cost you money, but also valuable time, effort, and energy.
Tip: Your local jewelers and online sites will usually give you unconditional money back guarantees.
If You Buy
Insist these items be included in writing on your receipt:
You are able to get a full refund for any reason, that is, an unconditional money back guarantee. Make that a condition of sale.
Insist on specific quality information; for example, G color, VS-2 clarity, NOT “superfine white” or “eye-clean” or other non-standard language.
Do not rely solely on your cruise line lists of recommended jewelry stores. Many stores are owned by the same corporation, and if one doesn’t get you to buy, the other one will. Like Area 51, the fact that the cruise line companies actually partly own these companies might not be urban legend!
If a lab report does accompany a diamond or gemstone, insist on one from a reputable independent laboratory, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or American Gemological Society (AGS).
How To Pay for Your Purchase
How you pay makes a great deal of difference. Always pay with your credit card! Utilizing your credit card will give you an advantage if a problem should arise and you want to make a return. In-store financing does not give you any leverage (refund) in case of disputes.
Points To Remember
Get your guarantee in writing
Never sign their sales slips, you might be signing a contract.
Schedule a consultation with your ASA Gems and Jewelry appraiser before traveling
Think clearly and unemotionally, don’t be pressured into the “once in a lifetime deal.”
As one of billions of travelers these stores see a year, if you purchase the item, it is not “wholesale.”
You will not be able to profit from your purchase.
Having said all this, we want to add that it’s not always a bad experience. Markets are becoming more global, especially with mass-produced jewelry. If you visit such local places as boutiques, cultural centers and artisan shops, you just might find something you wouldn’t be able to get at home.
With these simple guidelines and tips, you will enjoy your vacation, and return safely with many wonderful memories!
Juanita Addeo, ASA, is a Master Gemologist Appraiser®, and a third generation jeweler, owner/operator of Central Florida based Addeo Jewelers with family. Her specialties include reviewing portfolios, large diamonds, expert testimony, appraisal reports, and designing fine jewelry. She has won the coveted DeBeers Diamonds Today Competition Award, as well as ASA’s Jerry Larkins Volunteer Service Award. Juanita can be reached at (407) 333-0390 or juanita@addeojewelers.com.
Barry Block, ASA, is a Master Gemologist Appraiser®, the New York based The Jewelry Judge. Barry is an experienced appraiser with a demonstrated history of working in the consumer services industry. Strong professional skills in diamonds, colored stones, pearls, luxury goods, gem identification and gemology. He is New York’s first, and Long Island’s only, Master Gemologist Appraiser. Barry can be reached at (516) 248-8130 or bblock@jewelryjudge.net.
In today’s rapidly evolving job market, it’s more important than ever to stay up-to-date with the latest skills and trends in your industry. That’s why continuing education should be a top priority for professionals at all stages of their careers.
Here are a few reasons why continuing education is so important:
Stay competitive: By keeping your skills and knowledge current, you’ll be better positioned to compete for job opportunities and promotions.
Expand your network: Continuing education programs often provide opportunities to connect with other professionals in your field, which can help you expand your network and open up new career paths.
Adapt to changing technologies: Many industries are being transformed by new technologies, and continuing education can help you stay ahead of the curve and adapt to these changes.
Boost your confidence: When you’re knowledgeable and skilled in your field, you’ll feel more confident in your abilities, which can translate into greater success and job satisfaction.
Whether it’s attending workshops and conferences, pursuing a degree or certification, or simply taking online courses, there are many ways to continue your education and invest in your career. So, make a commitment to lifelong learning and take the first step toward achieving your professional goals.
Editor’s Note: A key part of being a successful personal property appraiser is the ability to recognize what you are looking at. Expanding your broad base of knowledge is critical. ASA recognizes this need and strives to provide valuable continuing education. Here’s a look at upcoming offerings:
