Katy M. Clites, Owner & Founder
Graduate Gemologist, GIA

About Us

Who is the founder?

Katy has been active in the jewelry industry since the late 80’s. Katy is president of KNS Fine Jewelry, Inc. KNS was a full-service jewelry store providing fashion trends, engagement rings, custom design, repair and appraisal service. Starting in 2007, Katy transitioned the business into a consulting and independent fine jewelry appraisal service currently servicing 45 jewelry stores, including independently owned stores, well known chain stores, jewelry designers, private clients and attorneys.

Graduate of Bowman Technical School - Jewelry repair and stone setting certification. Gemological Institute of America – Grading and Identifying diamonds and colored stones. These credentials alone DO NOT qualify you to be a "Jewelry Appraiser."

You must have first-hand "Real world" experience to be a proficient "Jewelry Appraiser."

IJA Team

Our team of professional and highly qualified Graduate Gemologists each have over 20 years of experience in the "Real World" jewelry industry.

Do not base your decision on who to have appraise your jewelry solely on whether the person is a Graduate Gemologist or not. Be sure your appraiser has "Real World" jewelry experience! It’s just that simple.

It's not all about the letters behind their name.

View IJA Appraiser Team Bios

What is "Real World" experience?

  • Know your limitations.
  • Buying and selling retail/wholesale.
  • Attending, buying and selling at flea markets, estate sales and auctions.
  • Mechanics of jewelry; understanding whether the item is cast, manufactured, die struck, handmade, etc.
  • Have "The Guy"; knowing a contact who is the expert on a particular piece, stones, metal, etc.
  • Attend jewelry trade shows where you see the latest gemstones and pricing as well as new methods to enhance and create gemstones.
  • Must be a current member or highly educated by a jewelry appraisal organization. Your appraiser must stay current on industry standards.

Our Gemologists are graduates of the prestigious Gemological Institute of America and are all members of the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers (NAJA).

Gemological Institute of America (November 1989)

Bowman Technical School (May 1988)

The National Association of Jewelry Appraisers (December 2007)

Accredited Senior Gemologist (October 2015)

Uphold the highest ethical standards required by the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers,
and the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice.

get in touch

135 Bridge Street
Columbia PA, 17512

Phone: (717) 405-2161

Email:

ASSOCIATIONS

AGA
GIA
NAJA

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