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Deep Pockets Are Funding This Growing Online Retailer That Appraises Jewelry in Person

Published

8 years ago

May 19, 2016

INSTORE Staff

E-tailer now has jewelry appraisal locations in four major cities.

Online retailer The RealReal will open a new jewelry and timepiece appraisal office in San Francisco, its fourth such location, the Fashion Times reports. The article notes that jewelry is among the fastest-growing categories for the e-tailer, which opened appraisal offices in New York, Los Angeles and Chicago in the past year. The RealReal – which scored $40 million from a venture capital firm last year – lets clients bring in jewelry and timepieces to be evaluated by gemologists and watch experts, who then draw up valuation documents that are posted on the site. Consignors earn 60-70 percent of the selling price.

This Third-Generation Jeweler Was Ready for Retirement. He Called Wilkerson

Retirement is never easy, especially when it means the end to a business that was founded in 1884. But for Laura and Sam Sipe, it was time to put their own needs first. They decided to close J.C. Sipe Jewelers, one of Indianapolis’ most trusted names in fine jewelry, and call Wilkerson. “Laura and I decided the conditions were right,” says Sam. Wilkerson handled every detail in their going-out-of-business sale, from marketing to manning the sales floor. “The main goal was to sell our existing inventory that’s all paid for and turn that into cash for our retirement,” says Sam. “It’s been very, very productive.” Would they recommend Wilkerson to other jewelers who want to enjoy their golden years? Absolutely! “Call Wilkerson,” says Laura. “They can help you achieve your goals so you’ll be able to move into retirement comfortably.”