Karen M. Howard FCGmA, RMV, CAP-CJA
As a gemmologist of over 30 years and a jewellery appraiser since 2002, I am all for using the correct terminology, but I also believe that we shouldn’t lose sight that jewellery is a luxury item that is worn for its unique appeal, its inherit beauty and how a clientr feels when wearing it. As an appraiser it makes no difference if an item values at $30,000 or $300 , we know that it is precious to our clients! I especially appreciate the trust that is put in me when I do an estate sort. You can see the years of history in the jewellery of your clients family and I treasure that trust. It is my favourite type of appraising.
Having 40 years of retail sales and business experience, I found I love to help others on their journey into the world of gems and have been talking or teaching about them for the past 25+ or so years.
These days I am focusing on my love of helping the new appraisers who are starting their business not only with the consulting on identification and ethics but also coaching them in the business of appraising. So many new appraisers get their credentials but are not taught how to build their business. I help appraisers with the business of appraising as well as the appraisal business.
The Language of Gems is about enhancing gems and jewellery through education and training. Helping the retailer and appraiser with their business of training staff, not only with the correct terminology but also bringing passion into their business and helping to focus the business, which allows them to focus on their clients. We also enjoy the education of the consumer with what the technical jargon is all about, so they feel empowered when they purchase.
The final goal is helping all parties to acknowledge the love, joy, power and passion people feel when admiring and wearing gems and find enjoyment in the process of the purchase!
Experience The Language of Gems
Vision and Mission
Assist the Jewellery Industry to enhance the interactions and transactions and maintain happy knowledgeable clients!
Vision
To be a leader and recognized authority in the training of the jewellery industry appraisers, helping to dramatically increase their client retention and there fore bring them more abundance. We do this with a process they can follow through training, language and stories, which then allows the appraiser, to communicate more effectively with the client and the retailer.
Mission
The Language of Gems follows a process of training that combines business, technical historical and scientific data to enhance the gem and appraising experience using tailored online courses and workshops for each business. This allows a business to thrive as they lay a great foundation for wonderful consumer experience and growth of business.
Why
The Language of Gems is about helping new jewellery appraisers open a business that is ethical, but viable for them so they can focus their attention on creating an amazing experience for their clients. We work at creating a greater understanding of the traditions and history of gems and jewellery through science and stories. It is designed to compliment existing education with relatable language and experiences that will help appraisers, retailers and clients communicate.
My courses exist to give the jewellery industry optional methods of learning so that they can choose the learning mode that resonate with them. I believe all should be allowed to move towards their dreams, no matter their learning method.
Core Values
To treat others with respect for their beliefs! To show passion for our industry and clients by striving to increase knowledge both theirs and ours! To have open hearts and open minds for new ideas and old ones alike. Express gratitude for the opportunities that come to us. To make all staff and clients feel like they are part of our family.