Antique Appraiser

An antique appraiser determines the value of various types of material goods.  They usually specialize in a specific category,  such as furniture, artwork, jewelry, books, or even toys.  Just about anything that is very old or rare has appraisers who specialize in determining its value.  Their expertise is needed to verify the replacement value of items that have been lost in fires or stolen.  They can also establish the worth of family heirlooms, and are often called upon as expert witnesses in court cases.  It takes years of experience and training to become an appraiser.  

How To Become an Antique Appraiser

Antique appraisers are not required to be licensed or registered in any way.  Most appraisers are collectors or dealers themselves, and have amassed knowledge through their own interest in a specific type of antique.  After collecting for years, they gain a great deal of knowledge regarding quality and worth of these items.

Some appraisers have college degrees in art or history.  They may also be part of a historical society or work in a museum, which gives them experience with specific types of antiques.  There are also many antique businesses that offer classes and workshops, though experience may be the best teacher.  While appraisers are not licensed, there are three different appraisal societies that they can offer accreditation and certification.  By becoming affiliated with these societies, they are given added credibility.

American Society of Appraisers

The ASA provides accreditation in various types of antique appraisals, including jewelry, gems and personal property.  They do not specialize in just antiques, but also real estate, business and machinery appraisals as well.  Numerous courses are offered to appraisers, with topics including appraisal review and management and expert witness preparation.  To become accredited by the ASA, an application must be submitted for review, detailing the appraisers education and experience.  They must also demonstrate competency by completing difficult sample appraisals.  To complete the certification process, they are given a final examination.  

International Society of Appraisers

Like the ASA, the ISA requires an application to be filled out, as well as character references.  In addition, they have a $450 membership fee that is paid annually.  They have several levels of membership, beginning with entry level and progressing to a fully certified membership.  In order to reach this level of certification, the antique appraiser must not only complete an examination and sample appraisals, but must log appraisal hours and submit reports that must be approved.  Courses must be completed in appraisal studies within three years, and members must reapply for membership after five years.

Appraisal Association of America

This appraisal association was founded in 1949, and focuses on decorative and fine arts.  With many high profile members, AAA certification is perhaps the most prestigious certification to obtain.  Members are offered a wide range of courses and lectures, and graduates of their program are awarded a certificate of appraisal studies specializing in decorative and fine arts.  They pride themselves on their extremely high standards and promote public service.  Their members are encouraged to volunteer their time at local events, giving free appraisals.  They also frequently lecture at colleges and institutions.