Statement of Qualifications
Kim Piracci has worked in the jewelry field in Chapel Hill, NC, since January 2000. She has a broad range of experience, including sales and customer service, buying and inventory control, gemstone identification, jewelry design, pearl and bead stringing, and jewelry display design. Kim is a graduate of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). In 2004, she began providing detailed appraisals for private clients for insurance, estate, tax and sale purposes. Kim conforms to the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) when identifying and appraising gems and jewelry. As a graduate gemologist, Kim adheres to the highest standards for testing, equipment and valuation methodology. She is a Certified Senior Appraiser of the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers (NAJA), an organization committed to fostering professional excellence and ethics.

Academic Education

Gemological Institute of America (GIA), Graduate Gemologist, September 2003
(Additional coursework in pearl grading)
SUNY Plattsburg, Bachelor of Science, Magna Cum Laude, December 1980

Professional Affiliations

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA), Alumni Association
The National Association of Jewelry Appraisers (NAJA), Certified Senior Appraiser
The Association for the Study of Jewelry and Related Arts, Member
Chapel Hill/Carrboro Chamber of Commerce, Member
Chapel Hill Leads Group, Member

On-going Education

The Gemological Institute of America, Gemstone Treatment course February 3, 2007
The NAJA Annual Mid-Year Education Conference, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009
The NAJA Annual Winter Conference, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Accredited Gemologists Association Conference in February, 2007
The Association for the Study of Jewelry and Related Arts Annual Conference, 2009