Valuations

Option 1: Send Us Photos

If you have items that you know you want to sell at auction, send us photos with approximate dimensions if possible, and we will give an estimate.

Take two to three photos of each piece, from various perspectives.

We cannot give jewelry valuations based on photos.

All estimates based on photos may change, once we actually see the items.

We will give estimates on 2-3 items per person.

However, if you just want to find out whether we will accept your items for auction. Please include photos of up to 15 of the best or most representative items and include a brief description of each item.

Please complete the form below or email [email protected]

Option 2: Attend a Valuation Session

Valuation Sessions are held by appointment only.

Please email [email protected] to schedule a session.

China Arts  Auction will give verbal valuations for up to five items per person. Although we prefer to see the actual item, these can be done based on photos, again with the stipulation that these estimates may change, once we actually see the items. There is a charge if a written valuation is required.

​China Arts Auction has to have a minimum value per consignment of $2,000 overall, or $300 for a single item, although there are some exceptions.

Option 3: Schedule a Specialist to Make a Visit

In the case that a consignor lives a distance or seeks valuation on a number of large pieces, we can arrange a visit. There are two types of visits our specialists may make.

The Courtesy Look (roughly 95% of all visits made) for which there is no charge. In this situation, the specialist will take a quick walk through the home, apartment, or business. If requested, they’ll be happy to give verbal estimates on a couple of the items, if they can, but will not give estimates on each item. They will discuss which items make sense for auction and which don’t, and sometimes they can give a global estimate of what the entire collection/estate might bring.

The Valuation, for which China Arts Auction charges $250 for the first hour, and $150 for each additional hour. This includes one hour of travel time. There may be additional time required for research on some items. How long this takes, in addition to the number of items and the research involved in determining their value, may depend on how much detail is required (i.e. does the client require estimates on every single item, or perhaps only those worth more than $100?), and whether the items are easily accessible.

Generally, China Arts Auction staff doesn’t do valuations for insurance purposes, divorces, donations or business evaluations, but may refer the client to one or more specialists.

Please email [email protected] to schedule a visit.