Gem Appraiser (Pawnshop)
ほうせきかんていにん（しちや）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
- Major : Sales and Marketing Occupations
- Middle : Sales-Related Occupations
- Minor : Other Sales-Related Occupations
Summary
Specialist who determines the authenticity and quality of gems and precious metals brought to pawnshops and evaluates their value. Calculates pawning or buyback prices based on appraisal results.
Description
Gem appraisers (pawnshops) inspect customers' gems and precious metals intended for pawning or buyback using specialized equipment such as loupes, microscopes, refractometers, and spectroscopes, and evaluate quality factors like carat weight, clarity, cut condition, and color tone. They calculate appropriate pawning amounts or buyback prices, taking into account market prices, precious metal rates, and regulations under the Pawnshop Business Law. In addition to appraisals, duties include inventory management, ledger recording, customer service, and in-store display management, as well as involvement in auctions and sales channels for forfeited pawned items. This role requires advanced specialized knowledge, accurate judgment, and sincere customer service attitude.
Future Outlook
Demand is stable due to the expansion of the second-hand market and reuse industry. Amid the introduction of online appraisals and AI appraisal tools, advanced specialized knowledge and the ability to build trust in face-to-face interactions will be key differentiators.
Personality Traits
Cautious / Curious or Inquisitive / Excellent Communication Skills / Honest
Work Style
Career Path
Junior Appraiser → Gem Appraiser → Senior Appraiser → Manager (Pawnshop) → Area Manager
Required Skills
Basic PC Operation / Communication Skills (Customer Service) / Gemmology / Inspection Equipment Operation / Market Price Awareness / Pawnshop Business Law
Recommended Skills
Accounting Knowledge (Basic) / English (Jewelry Terminology) / Marketing Knowledge / Negotiation Skills
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | High attention to detail is required to not miss minute flaws or fakes. |
| Learning Agility & Knowledge Acquisition | Acquisition of the latest knowledge is required due to the emergence of synthetic materials and new technologies. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Because it is based on standard evaluation criteria. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | Mainly individual appraisal work, with limited team work. |
Related Qualifications
- Certified Appraiser by the Japan Gemmological Society
- JJA Certified Gem Appraiser
Aliases
- Gem Appraiser
- Gemologist
- Pawnshop Appraiser
Related Jobs
- Buyback Advisor
- Gem Buyer
- Retail Store Clerk
- Reuse Shop Appraiser