Business Details
24 Years
experience
Expert Jewelry Appraisals in Roanoke, VA
Octagon Gemological Services was founded in 2002 by Michaux Tayloe Chopski, a Certified Gemologist Appraiser and Graduate Gemologist of the Gemological Institute of America. With over two decades of experience in gemstone evaluation and jewelry appraisal, our firm has established itself as one of only eighteen Independent Certified Gemologist Appraiser (ICGA) firms in the United States since 2005. Our expertise spans insurance replacement appraisals, estate valuations, equitable distribution assessments, and charitable donation documentation, all conducted with rigorous attention to detail and adherence to industry standards.We maintain an extensive in-house gem and jewelry library to support our research-driven approach, ensuring clients receive accurate market valuations backed by comprehensive analysis of gem identification, metal content, and historical context. Our Roanoke, Virginia office provides a secure, handicap-accessible environment for clients seeking professional appraisal services while offering convenient appointment scheduling options.
Services
Insurance Replacement Appraisals
Estate Appraisals
Equitable Distribution Appraisals
Charitable Donation Appraisals
Jewelry Brokerage Services
Details
- Year established: 2002
Highlights and features
- Certified Gemologist Appraiser with over 20 years of experience
- Unbiased, well-researched values based on current market data
- Convenient and secure handicap-accessible office location
- Competitive rates with efficient service delivery
- Extensive in-house gem and jewelry reference library
Associations and certifications
- Gemological Institute of America
- Independent Certified Gemologist Appraiser (ICGA)
Services
Insurance Replacement Appraisals
We provide detailed documentation for insurance coverage of fine jewelry, including gem identification, metal testing, and market value determination. Our appraisals help ensure proper compensation in case of loss or damage through fire, theft, or other covered events. Each report includes digital imaging, diamond plotting, and comprehensive condition analysis to meet insurer requirements.
Estate Appraisals
Our certified appraisers determine fair market values for estate tax purposes, meeting federal government requirements for estates exceeding specified thresholds. We conduct thorough analysis of jewelry components, historical documentation, and current market conditions to ensure accurate valuations that prevent potential tax penalties for clients.
Equitable Distribution Appraisals
We specialize in impartial valuation of jewelry assets for property division during divorce proceedings. Our reports provide legally defensible market values that consider gem quality, metal content, and current market trends to ensure fair distribution between parties involved in marital dissolution cases.
Charitable Donation Appraisals
IRS-compliant appraisals for jewelry donations exceeding $5,000, including detailed analysis of gemological characteristics, historical significance, and current market value. Our reports meet strict IRS documentation requirements to ensure donors receive proper tax deductions while maintaining compliance with changing tax regulations.
Jewelry Brokerage Services
We offer expert guidance for selling fine jewelry through private consultations and market analysis. Our services include determining optimal sales channels, pricing strategies based on current market conditions, and assistance with liquidating gold, diamonds, and other precious materials while maintaining valuation integrity.
People
Michaux Tayloe Chopski
Certified Gemologist Appraiser
Graduate Gemologist from the Gemological Institute of America with 20+ years of experience in jewelry appraisal. Holds Independent Certified Gemologist Appraiser designation since 2005. Specializes in estate, insurance, and divorce appraisals while maintaining extensive gemological reference resources.
Questions
What types of appraisals do you offer?
We provide insurance replacement, estate, divorce, charitable donation, and resale appraisals, along with jewelry brokerage services and gemstone identification reports.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Contact us at 540-342-6144 to schedule Monday-Friday appointments between 8:30 AM and 1:30 PM at our Roanoke, VA office.
What should I bring for an appraisal?
Bring jewelry items needing evaluation along with any existing documentation, receipts, or previous appraisals to help establish provenance and historical context.
How long does the appraisal process take?
Most appraisals completed while you wait, with comprehensive reports typically available within 3-5 business days after initial consultation.
Are your appraisers certified?
Yes, our lead appraiser holds Graduate Gemologist credentials from GIA and is one of only eighteen Independent Certified Gemologist Appraisers in the United States.
