Instappraise and NAJA Expand Scholarship Program to Elevate Jewelry Appraisal Standards

The National Association of Jewelry Appraisers (NAJA) and software provider Instappraise have announced the renewal of their educational partnership, which includes the introduction of a third scholarship aimed at supporting professional development within the jewelry appraisal field. This expanded program signifies a shared commitment by both organizations to enhance global appraisal standards, promote ethical practices, and broaden access to quality education for both emerging and established professionals.

Three Tiers of Professional Development

The collaboration offers three distinct scholarships designed to cater to different stages of an appraiser's career:

• Scholarship for Non-NAJA Members: This scholarship targets individuals with a gemological background who are not currently NAJA members but are seeking formal training to enter or advance in the jewelry appraisal profession. It includes a one-year NAJA membership, Lessons 1-5 of the NAJA Appraisal Studies Course, and a one-year subscription to Instappraise. The total value is $2,070. Completing these initial lessons leads to the 'NAJA Certified Member' designation.
• Scholarship for Current NAJA Members: Aimed at existing NAJA members who are beginning their appraisal studies, this scholarship also provides a one-year NAJA membership, access to Lessons 1-5 of the Appraisal Studies Course, and a one-year Instappraise subscription. Its value is also $2,070.
• Scholarship for Certified Master Appraiser (CMA) Candidates: This scholarship is specifically for current NAJA Certified Members (CM) in good standing who aspire to achieve the NAJA Certified Master Appraiser designation. It offers access to Lessons 6-18 of the NAJA Appraisal Studies Course and a one-year Instappraise subscription, valued at $1,775.

Eligibility and Application Process

To be considered for any of the scholarships, applicants must submit a written essay between 300 and 500 words detailing their professional background, career goals, and how the scholarship will impact their professional development. Handwritten essays will not be accepted; submissions must be in MS Word or PDF format. Additionally, candidates must possess a Graduate Gemologist (GG) or equivalent degree, such as FGA, FGAA, FGG, FCGmA, or RGA, and provide supporting documentation. Some designations, like the CM designation, may require additional years of appraisal experience.

All applications must be fully completed on the Instappraise™ Scholarship application portal. Any misrepresentation will lead to disqualification. Only one application per scholarship per applicant is permitted.

Coursework and Deadlines

The scholarships emphasize timely completion to encourage steady professional progress. Recipients of the Non-Member and Member scholarships are expected to complete Lessons 1 through 5 within five months (150 days) of acceptance. Those pursuing the CMA designation through the third scholarship must complete the required coursework within twelve months. Extensions may be granted for up to 60 days at the discretion of the NAJA Scholarship Advisory Board.

The NAJA Appraisal Studies Course covers appraisal theory, methodology, ethics, valuation concepts, and professional report writing, incorporating assessments, quizzes, and examinations. Compliance with Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP®) is a core component, supported by Instappraise's software tools designed for creating compliant reports.

Announcement and Partnership Goals

Applications for the scholarships are due by June 15, 2026. The scholarship recipients will be announced during NAJA’s annual 2026 Summer Conference (also referred to as the 66th Annual ACEit© Mid-Year Education Conference), scheduled for August 9-10, 2026. NAJA reserves the right to use awardees' names, photos, and essay excerpts for publicity purposes.

Gail Brett Levine, executive director of NAJA, stated that Instappraise has “revolutionized jewelry appraisal by providing innovative software solutions that empower appraisers to standardize and streamline their processes.” The partnership aims to prepare the next generation of appraisers with robust technical and ethical foundations, ultimately contributing to the long-term sustainability and reputation of the appraisal profession globally.