A Brief History
National Association of Jewelry Appraisers (NAJA) was founded in 1981 on the premise that the specialized field of gem and jewelry appraising was an area that was long overdue for representation on a professional basis. Also, there was a need for an appraisal organization specializing in only gems and jewelry, one which would not be subject to the confusion of diverse appraisal disciplines such as real estate, machinery & equipment, art, household contents, etc. The NAJA was formed as a response to this need.
The Association’s primary purpose is to recognize, and make available, the services of highly qualified, informed, experienced, independent, and professional appraisers of gems and jewelry to those members of the public requiring such expertise. In addition, NAJA seeks to promote the trademark and professional designations earned by our members and to make available continuing educational materials in order to ensure that they are among the best informed appraisers in our industry.
Finally, it is our goal to promote professionalism among our members as well as the industry as a whole. All of the above should provide reasonable assurance to the public of the professional skill, integrity, and responsibility of our members.
The National Association of Jewelry Appraisers is the only appraisal association in the United States that devotes itself solely to the appraisal of gems and jewelry and silver flatware and holloware. All of our energies focus on these, and only these, subjects which are updated with new information as it becomes available.
Objectives
The NAJA conducts various programs designed to serve the interests of both its members and the public at large in matters relating to appraisal theory and valuation science. Major elements of this program include:
- A referral program designed to make the services of properly qualified appraisers available to those who have need of such services
- Education of the public in matters relating to the profession of gem and jewelry appraising
- Promulgation of a Code of Ethics which is to be adhered to by all members of the association.
- A program for the advancement of members and the awarding of appropriate designations to those members meeting the associations’s various membership level requirements.
- The establishment of appraisal standards for gem and jewelry appraising
- Promotion of educational seminars and meetings on topics related to gem and jewelry appraising; for both members and non-members.
- Miscellaneous activities to make the public more aware of the professional standards to be used in gem and jewelry appraisals and to gain recognition for members of this association.
