It is the mission of Northwest Gemological Laboratory to offer unbiased service of the highest standards in the field of fine jewelry appraisals and gemological consultation to both the trade and public. First off, let me say what I do not want NGL to be. It is not my intent to run the largest gemological facility. It is not my intent to offer a myriad of appraisal formats based upon the wishes of the client. In particular I do not wish NGL to be known as a lab catering only to the trade to help them sell more jewelry.
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NGL has state-of-the-art facilities for the appraisal of fine jewelry where you can have an item appraised within an hour, by appointment. This creates a need for careful attention, since mountings can inhibit any aspect of the examination process. While NGL maintains an exceptional record for accuracy, no one can be as specific when examining a mounted stone versus one that is loose.
NGI provides the ideal environment for learning the essentials of gemology and jewelry-related subjects. Our courses are specific and taught by the most effective form of instruction - where you learn by doing. Classes are small, allowing students to interact with the instructor and receive answers to their plentiful questions.
The purpose of Northwest Gemological Institute (NGI) is to impart skills with immediate benefit to the student through hand's on instruction in a small group environment. Our intent is to maximize the student's efforts through intense instruction without unnecessary "fluff". By staying focused on a small group of students, we can provide more useful and useable information to the individual. Whether a seminar or multi-day workshop, our hands-on approach promotes small group interaction in an intense learning environment.
An appraisal of fine jewelry should be the professional, impartial, qualified opinion of an expert in the fields of gemology and jewelry valuation for a specific purpose. It first requires an accurate representation of the item and its components - the gemstones and mountings - their identification and qualitative grading against industry standards.
Reviews (10)
Penny B.
Aug 10, 2021
I took in a vintage ring with a large colored stone to another business to be appraised and was told it was not possible for them to determine if the stone had been "heat set". They didn't have the equipment. I called this business several months ago to determine if they did have the equipment and could see if the stone had been heat set. They assured me that they could do this.
Before I took the ring in, I again called to make sure they were open and asked for the second time about being able to appraise the stone as heat set or not. I again was told this was something they could do. When I took the ring in last week, I asked for the third time to confirm they were able to determine if the stone was heat set. I was told for the 3rd time that this was something they could do.
When my husband picked up the ring and the appraisal, he was told they didn't have the expertise or equipment to determine if the stone was heat set. Basically, they lied to me every time. The initial jeweler I took the ring too was honest enough to let me know right away and did not charge me for the appraisal. They were not. They just completed the appraisal and "assumed" the stone was heat set as most are.
I would not have taken it to them if I knew they were incapable of doing the job. There is no reason to use this business. Any good jeweler can do an appraisal. I called to talk to the owner regarding this issue and was told he would return my call but he did not do so.
Before I took the ring in, I again called to make sure they were open and asked for the second time about being able to appraise the stone as heat set or not. I again was told this was something they could do. When I took the ring in last week, I asked for the third time to confirm they were able to determine if the stone was heat set. I was told for the 3rd time that this was something they could do.
When my husband picked up the ring and the appraisal, he was told they didn't have the expertise or equipment to determine if the stone was heat set. Basically, they lied to me every time. The initial jeweler I took the ring too was honest enough to let me know right away and did not charge me for the appraisal. They were not. They just completed the appraisal and "assumed" the stone was heat set as most are.
I would not have taken it to them if I knew they were incapable of doing the job. There is no reason to use this business. Any good jeweler can do an appraisal. I called to talk to the owner regarding this issue and was told he would return my call but he did not do so.
Christina P.
Aug 04, 2021
I had a great experience with NW Gem Lab! It was very easy to make an appointment online, and they are conveniently located near downtown Bellevue with free visitor parking. We did a preliminary appraisal, and in 30 minutes, left with my ring and a brief report with estimated retail value and other helpful information! Excellent and friendly customer service as well. Highly recommend for anyone seeking trustworthy appraisal services and peace of mind.
Michael R.
Jan 02, 2020
I shopped for some jewelry online and was unsure of the authenticity. I had 2 items but Ted only charged for one. He told me the ruby and sapphire necklace was real, but low quality. The gold bracelet which was advertised as 18K was shown lower and he told me this company is known for heavy gold plating. His advice saved me a lot of money and I am returning the 18K gold plated bracelet. The website said it was 18K gold but didn't bother to say gold plated. I am so glad I had these verified and will go back with every jewelry item I purchase.
Patrick Lawrence Kane
Apr 12, 2019
Sandra Y. Dorn H.
Apr 21, 2018
Scott Perry
Jan 05, 2018
J. B.
Nov 02, 2016
I recently had an appointment to have my wedding ring set re-appraised for insurance purposes and was extremely pleased by the professionalism, courteous and thorough service. Ted (Graduate Gemologist) was very conscientious of my time and charged a very fair rate. Conveniently located in downtown Bellevue, the experience couldn't have been more smoother or easy. Thanks, Ted!
Philip T.
May 07, 2016
Have had three appraisals performed here with the first one being over ten years ago and the most recent in the past couple weeks. Each time we were treated with professionalism and received excellent service. The appraisals were well written and accurate. Anytime we get a new piece of jewelry we will make sure to come back!
Brian M.
May 20, 2012
I have zero doubt that the appraisal was done by a professional, in a competent manner. However, I would have to rate the entire experience as perfunctory and unremarkable. The positive: 1) The location is a nice building, and the office is secure. 2) The appraisal report seemed thorough, even if it was simply reconfirming the details on the GIA report.
The negative: 1) The front office staff were a little cool. Not rude, per se, just not very welcoming. I experienced this with one lady at drop-off, and another at pick-up. 2) I was originally told that it would take an hour to do the appraisal. When the woman realized that I hadn't made a "while you wait" appointment, the estimate quickly changed to 3 days. 3) The appraisal was actually completed on the same day. However, nobody bothered to call and inform me. Instead, I waited the promised 3 days. 4) There was absolutely no interaction with the appraiser. I was simply handed my report, I handed over payment to the front office lady, and that was that.
The negative: 1) The front office staff were a little cool. Not rude, per se, just not very welcoming. I experienced this with one lady at drop-off, and another at pick-up. 2) I was originally told that it would take an hour to do the appraisal. When the woman realized that I hadn't made a "while you wait" appointment, the estimate quickly changed to 3 days. 3) The appraisal was actually completed on the same day. However, nobody bothered to call and inform me. Instead, I waited the promised 3 days. 4) There was absolutely no interaction with the appraiser. I was simply handed my report, I handed over payment to the front office lady, and that was that.
Dena R.
Apr 01, 2011
Rated 1 Star due to poor customer service, confusing process, false light, perceived lack of professionalism, lack of confidence in safety of environment, and definitely not the polished brand the marketing claims. While I liked the educational aspect of their website, I do not feel comfortable doing business there. Consider Christina Harrington downtown Seattle. Update: The owner emailed me an apology when I emailed my complaint.
