At Hughes, we provide expert valuation services for fine art, decorative arts, ceramics, collectibles, and estates. With decades of experience in the art and auction industries, we deliver accurate, reliable appraisals to meet your personal, insurance, estate, or legal needs - whether for a single item or an entire collection.
Why Choose Hughes Appraisals?
Compliant with USPAP: Appraisals compliant with Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP), ensuring highest industry standards
Personalized Service: Tailored approach to each client’s unique needs
Transparent Process: Clear communication throughout the appraisal process
Extensive Market Knowledge: Up-to-date understanding of current art markets
What We Appraise
Our accredited appraisers have deep market knowledge across a wide range of categories. We provide expert, USPAP-compliant valuations for:
Fine Art: Paintings, sculptures, and limited edition prints from all periods, with a special focus on California and American artists.
Furniture & Decorative Arts: Antique, vintage, and designer furniture, with specialized expertise in Modern pieces, sterling silver, and ceramics.
Jewelry & Timepieces: Valuations for estate jewelry, diamonds, gemstones, and luxury watches from brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Cartier.
Collector Vehicles: Appraisals for classic, antique, and special-interest cars, motorcycles, and boats.
Complete Estates: Comprehensive appraisals for the entire contents of a home, providing a single, organized report for estate settlement or equitable distribution.
Our Services
Hughes Appraisals provides comprehensive valuation services for a range of needs. Whether you require an appraisal for insurance, estate planning, charitable donations, or equitable distribution, we offer professional expertise and personalized attention to each project.
Appraisal Types
Insurance Appraisals
Determine the replacement value of your art and collectibles to ensure proper coverage in case of loss, damage, or theft.
Estate Appraisals
Establish fair market values for estate tax purposes, estate planning, or distribution among heirs.
Donation Appraisals
Determine the fair market value of items you plan to donate to charitable organizations for tax deduction purposes.
Equitable Distribution
Provide objective valuations for divorce settlements or division of assets.
We are Accredited Members of the International Society of Appraisers (ISA) and are qualified to conduct USPAP compliant appraisals. Contact us for terms and fees for your appraisal project. Hughes offers an appraisal fee rebate if you choose to sell property listed in a Hughes appraisal through Hughes Auctions.
If you are seeking auction estimates, please use our free auction estimate form to get started.
It starts with a free consultation. Contact us to discuss your project, and we'll assess your items and recommend the best solution—whether it's an estate sale, auction, or buyout.
What's the difference between an estate sale, auction, and buyout?
An estate sale is a public, on-site sale of a home's contents. An auction is for selling individual high-value items to a global market. A buyout is a fast, private cash offer for the entire estate.
What do you specialize in selling?
We specialize in fine art (especially California artists), antique & designer furniture, estate jewelry, luxury watches, and collector vehicles.
Do I need a formal appraisal to sell my items?
No. For selling, we provide a free auction estimate. A formal written appraisal is a separate, paid service used for official purposes like insurance or legal matters.
How much do your services cost?
Estate sales and auctions are commission-based, with the rate determined during your free consultation. Formal appraisals are charged at an hourly rate. We have no hidden fees.
