Appraisal vs. Authentication: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to buying, selling, or insuring fine jewelry and luxury watches, understanding the difference between an appraisal and authentication is essential. At Pacific Jewelry & Watches, we specialize in evaluating high-end timepieces and jewelry, helping you determine their true value and legitimacy.

What Is an Appraisal?

An appraisal is a professional assessment of your jewelry or watch’s monetary value. Certified appraisers examine the piece’s materials, craftsmanship, condition, and market demand to assign an accurate value. Appraisals are often necessary for insurance coverage, estate planning, or selling your luxury items.

At Pacific Jewelry & Watches, we provide detailed appraisals for Rolex, Cartier, Patek Philippe, and other high-end watch brands. Our experts consider factors such as precious metal content, gemstones, rarity, and resale trends to give you a fair and current valuation.

Ready to schedule an appraisal for your piece in Los Angeles? Contact Pacific Jewelry & Watches today.

What Is Authentication?

Authentication verifies whether a jewelry piece or watch is genuine and not a counterfeit. Authenticators examine serial numbers, hallmarks, engravings, materials, and craftsmanship details to confirm the item’s origin. Authentication is critical when buying or selling luxury watches and designer jewelry, as counterfeits can be highly convincing.

Pacific Jewelry & Watches uses advanced tools and brand-specific expertise to confirm authenticity for brands like Rolex, Omega, and Audemars Piguet. We provide authentication reports to give you confidence before you buy or sell a luxury item.

Why Does the Difference Matter?

While appraisals determine valueauthentication confirms legitimacy. A piece can be appraised for value only if it is genuine. If you plan to sell your watch or jewelry in Brentwood or anywhere in Los Angeles, both services are essential to ensure you get top dollar and avoid counterfeit issues.

When Should You Get Each Service?

  • Appraisal: When you need a resale estimate, insurance valuation, or estate planning document.
  • Authentication: Before purchasing a pre-owned luxury watch or jewelry, or before selling, to prove legitimacy to buyers.

Ready to schedule an appraisal in Los Angeles? Contact Pacific Jewelry & Watches today.

Trust Pacific Jewelry & Watches for Both

Our team offers expert appraisals and authentic brand verification to protect your investment. Whether you want to sell your Rolex, appraise your diamond ring, or confirm a Patek Philippe’s authenticity, we provide reliable, transparent services right here in Brentwood, Los Angeles.

Visit Pacific Jewelry & Watches today for trusted appraisal and authentication services. Get the confidence you need before buying or selling your luxury timepieces and jewelry.

About Pacific Jewelry & Watches

Image courtesy of Canva

Mark Larsen

left us a 5 star review

google
Mark Larsen
Rated 5.0
August 14, 2025

Had a great experience at Pacific Jewelry selling several items. Paul is a friendly, easy going guy who is patient and very knowledgeable. Total satisfaction with the prices he gave, in fact, he gave me more than I expected. Thank you Paul!

google
Vader Mau5
Rated 5.0
August 9, 2025

I saw Paul for my engagement ring appraisal. I really appreciated him waiting for me since I got a flat tire right before my appointment. He took his time explaining the cost of the ring and what it takes to make a ring like mine and he seemed genuinely excited about explaining the process. He was fairly quick in his responses to me when I scheduled the appointment and was quick to send me the documents for my insurance. I really appreciate this experience because most professionals in jewelry talk down to people that don’t know anything about jewelry. Will definitely recommend him to my friends and will come back when I acquire more jewelry.

yelp
Vader A.
Rated 5.0
August 8, 2025

I saw Paul for my engagement ring appraisal. I really appreciated him waiting for me since I got a flat tire right before my appointment. He took his time...

google
Rosa M. Navarro
Rated 5.0
August 7, 2025

I was treated with complete courtesy and attention. All of my questions were answered to my complete satisfaction, and I felt that I was given the best possible price for the items I brought in. I would not hesitate to return in the future if I have other items to sell. I would recommend Pacific Jewelers to anyone interested in an honest appraisal and/or sale of personal valuables.

google
Mark Shweitzer
Rated 5.0
July 31, 2025

Paul was extremely helpful, knowledgeable, and easy to work with! Very convenient place to get a watch appraisal!

yelp
Othelo M.
Rated 5.0
July 29, 2025

Provided a straightforward and smooth service. Friendly and professional. Responsive to DM/text. Highly recommended and convenient.

yelp
L G.
Rated 5.0
July 29, 2025

I found Paul through a website for the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers and saw his yelp reviews - which convinced me to use his services. He was...

google
Steph Prader
Rated 5.0
July 24, 2025

Paul is a smart and chill dude! I appreciated his relaxed, kind manner while appraising my jewelry. He gave me a great price along with good conversation. I highly recommend him!

yelp
Lawrence G.
Rated 5.0
July 4, 2025

Having limited knowledge of watches and jewelry and after doing some online research about getting a value appraisal from a professional, I found Paul who...

google
Alex Rush
Rated 5.0
July 3, 2025

Very kind a professional service, no messing around and very much knew his stuff. Got a fantastic and fair price for a piece I no longer wanted. Would definitely recommend.

google
Mona Moafi
Rated 5.0
July 2, 2025

Best buyer for silver and Gold

google
David Navasardian
Rated 5.0
July 2, 2025

I truly thank him to provide me the best deal for Silver

google
David Novassarteian
Rated 5.0
July 2, 2025

Very nice 😊 person respectful easy to deal & best price

google
Russell Ku
Rated 5.0
June 27, 2025

Paul is friendly and gave us a thorough appraisal report with a quick turnaround.

google
Chris Carletti
Rated 5.0
June 19, 2025

After speaking with IGI, and GIA, Paul at Pacific Jewelry & Watches was much more knowledgeable and helpful with my questions and concerns. Thank you so much!!! 5 stars!!! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

yelp
Steven B.
Rated 5.0
June 10, 2025

I found Paul on Yelp and I called for an engagement ring appraisal. His fee was very fair, quick examination process (does not keep jewelry overnight) and...

google
Raquel Davies
Rated 5.0
June 3, 2025

Great customer service, kind and professional manner.

yelp
Ro V.
Rated 5.0
June 1, 2025

I was selling some pieces I no longer wear and Paul was fantastic to work with---so thorough, knowledgeable and helpful, I felt well taken care of. Thank...

yelp
Danica P.
Rated 5.0
May 27, 2025

Paul at Pacific Jewelry was extremely thorough and knowledgeable. I appreciated that he took the time to explain various factors that effect certain...

google
Nicole Campos
Rated 5.0
May 21, 2025

Paul is great and I will definitely continue to go to him for appraisals and to sell any valuables! He’s knowledgeable and honest. His pricing is very fair and he takes the time to show and explain why things are valued the way they are. I trust Paul and would definitely recommend him!!