About Us Founded in 1976, Friend & Company Fine Jewelers began as a small concept rooted in offering beautiful jewelry at exceptional value and has since grown into a trusted destination for fine jewelry in New Orleans. Built on a reputation for honesty, expertise, and personalized service, the business has since evolved to include diamonds, gemstones, pearls, custom design, and bridal offerings. With leadership spanning multiple generations, the company combines deep industry knowledge with a passion for creating a welcoming, high-end experience without the high-end pressure. Today, Friend & Company proudly serves generations of loyal clients and continues to grow, offering exceptional craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and outstanding customer care. About The Role We are seeking an experienced Graduate Gemologist & Fine Jewelry Appraiser to join our team. This role is ideal for a knowledgeable jewelry professional with strong gemological expertise, appraisal experience, and a keen eye for detail. The position will focus primarily on evaluating, appraising, and documenting fine jewelry, diamonds, and gemstones while also supporting the accurate management of high-value inventory. The ideal candidate brings a combination of technical knowledge, sound judgment, organization, and a genuine passion for fine jewelry. Key Responsibilities Evaluate diamonds, colored gemstones, and fine jewelry for quality, authenticity, condition, and value Prepare accurate and detailed appraisals for insurance, estate, resale, and other purposes Conduct gemological examinations and identify gemstones using appropriate testing methods and equipment Research market information and comparable pieces to support accurate valuations Photograph, describe, and document jewelry for appraisal and inventory purposes Maintain accurate inventory records and ensure jewelry is properly documented within inventory systems Receive, inspect, tag, and process incoming merchandise Assist with cycle counts, physical inventories, and reconciliation of discrepancies Ensure accurate documentation of weights, measurements, stones, metals, values, and other relevant item details Work closely with management and sales staff to support accurate merchandise movement and inventory records Maintain strict security and confidentiality when handling high-value merchandise and client information Stay current on market trends, gemological developments, and industry standards Provide gemological and product expertise to management and team members Qualifications Graduate Gemologist (GG) or equivalent gemological education preferred Professional experience conducting fine jewelry appraisals Strong knowledge of diamonds, colored gemstones, precious metals, and fine jewelry Experience working with high-value jewelry and merchandise Strong understanding of jewelry construction, quality, condition, and valuation Experience with inventory management, POS systems, or jewelry inventory software Exceptional attention to detail and strong organizational skills Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and computer-based inventory systems Excellent written and verbal communication skills Ability to handle valuable merchandise with professionalism, discretion, and care Jewelry Education & Certifications GIA Graduate Gemologist (GG) highly preferred Additional GIA credentials, including AJP, Graduate Diamonds, or Graduate Colored Stones AGS, DCA, or other recognized gemological and jewelry industry certifications Additional appraisal education or specialized jewelry training is a plus Compensation & Benefits $50,000 to $65,000 annually, based on experience, expertise, and qualifications Health insurance with 50% employer paid coverage for employees, with no waiting period 100% employer paid dental and vision coverage with no waiting period 401(k) with 4% company match after 12 months of employment Paid time off + sick leave

Pay:

$50,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person