If you are involved in a high-asset divorce, you are likely aware of how complicated the process of property and asset division can be. The fact is, you and your spouse may have acquired a large volume of valuable items over the years and it is important that everything is accounted for and assigned a dollar value. And often, the jewelry that comes into a couple’s possession during a marriage can be worth a great deal.
According to the chief buyer of a jewelry business, there are a number of things to take into consideration when it comes time to decide how to divide a jewelry collection. Of course, as we mentioned, you want to know what everything is worth and you can get a rough estimate from a jewelry store or a buyer. But you want to get several opinions so you know your estimate is accurate.
You also want to make sure that the jewelry is in a secure place. This means keeping it in a safe in your home or in a safe-deposit box in a bank. You want to know exactly where these valuables are as long as you may have some claim to them.
Of course, it is the matter of ownership that is of major concern. Pieces of jewelry can become hotly contested items because they can have both monetary and emotional value. But you want to be careful not to give up too much in return for a necklace or ring, even if it has some sentimental value.
When assessing the overall value of a jewelry collection for the purpose of division, it can be very helpful to have the assistance of an experienced high asset attorney. An attorney can help protect your interests by working to ensure that you get your fair share of marital property.