About InstAppraisal

How InstAppraisal Works

InstAppraisal uses a retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) system. When you upload photos, our AI first identifies your item, then searches our archive of real appraisals to find comparable items with similar characteristics. The value estimate is derived from these real-world comparables, not from guesswork.

Our Data

Our archive goes back to 1999 and spans a wide range of categories including furniture, jewelry, art, coins, glass, ceramics, clocks, silver, toys, watches, textiles, and more. Every appraisal in the archive contributes to the knowledge base that powers future valuations.

AI + Archive Methodology

Each appraisal follows a multi-step process:

• Photo Analysis — An AI vision model examines your uploaded photos to identify the item type, materials, style, era, maker marks, and condition.
• Archive Search — The system uses vector similarity search to find comparable items in our archive of real appraisals, matching on visual and descriptive characteristics.
• Value Estimation — A value range is derived from the comparable items found, weighted by how closely they match your item in terms of maker, period, condition, and materials.
• Quality Checks — Higher-value items, items with uncertain identifications, or those flagged by our coherence checks are automatically marked for human review to ensure accuracy.

Who Built InstAppraisal

InstAppraisal was created by collectors, for collectors. Our mission is to make antique and collectible valuation accessible to everyone — whether you're sorting through an estate, curious about a flea market find, or building a serious collection.

We believe that understanding the value of the objects around us enriches our connection to history, craftsmanship, and culture. That's why we've built a system that combines decades of real appraisal data with modern AI to deliver valuations that are grounded in evidence, not speculation.

Accuracy & Disclaimers

InstAppraisal's AI-generated valuations are estimates based on our archive dataset and are not formal appraisals. Values may not reflect current market conditions, regional variations, or factors that can only be assessed through physical examination.

For insurance, estate planning, tax, donation, or legal purposes, we recommend consulting a certified appraiser who can provide an in-person evaluation with a written report.

For items where you'd like a professional second opinion, human expert reviews are available for purchase directly from your appraisal page. A qualified reviewer will examine your photos and provide additional commentary and valuation guidance.

Ready to find out what your item is worth?

Upload photos and get an instant AI-powered valuation backed by our archive of real appraisals.