...what is an IRV?

An IRV is a qualified, experienced and knowledgeable expert in whom you can trust.

Jewellery valuations require expertise and discipline in order to ensure that descriptions are precise, identifications correct and measurements accurate.

• To become an IRV Member the following pre-requisites are required of the applicant (at the present time):

- The Certificate of Appraisal Theory (CAT) or the Professional Jewellers’ Valuation Diploma.

(Early in 2010 the N.A.G. Board of Directors accepted the request of the Institute to withdraw the JET Valuation Course which lead to the Professional Jewellers' Valuation Diploma Exam as they felt that the modules were somewhat dated and lacked certain valuation elements.  A Working Party is in the process of replacing the course with a valuation training programme which will offer valuers the opportunity to gain the Institute’s Certificate of Appraisal Theory (CAT).  At the time of writing it is planned that the new valuation training programme will be introduced in spring 2012.  In the meantime you may find this update on the situation useful (please click on "update" to open the document).)

- A minimum of five years experience in the jewellery trade/industry.

- A gemmological qualification.

- A diamond grading training certificate.

- Applicants will also be required to submit sample valuations.

- In due course it is intended that the applicant will also be required to participate in a face-to-face interview with members of the examining panel.  During the interview the applicant will also be required to take (and pass) the Munsell Colour Test.

• An IRV Member can graduate to IRV Fellow status by completing a Continuing Professional Development Plan within a specified period .
• IRVs must also submit examples of their valuation work for inspection and approval by the Institute on a regular basis.
• All IRVs must follow the guidelines laid down in the Association's handbook "The Valuer's Guide".

(All valuers who were members of the Association's original Registered Valuers Scheme automatically became IRV Members when the Institute was launched in September 2008.)