Join us for an insightful panel discussion featuring esteemed experts and connoisseurs in the realm of jewelry. Discover the secrets behind what makes a piece of jewelry truly exceptional, learn about the market trends shaping the industry, and gain practical tips on how to protect your jewelry to ensure its longevity and enduring beauty.

Whether you’re an avid collector, a budding designer, or simply passionate about the artistry of jewelry, this panel discussion is a not-to-be-missed event.

Moran Auctioneers and Appraisers will value your timepieces, fine jewelry, designer jewelry, costume jewelry, etc.

Note: Ticket holders to both the panel discussion and What’s It Worth? – Jewelry Edition will receive priority entry to the John Moran Auctioneers and Appraisers for an exclusive valuation for one hour immediately following the panel discussion.

Advance tickets recommended. Ticket purchase includes access to all museum exhibits.

Museum members: $25

Non-members: $35

Timothy Adams, Art Historian and Curator

Timothy Adams is an art historian, lecturer and consultant with a specialty in historical gold work. He is the co-author of “Faberge: The Twilight Years”, published November 2023, a collaborative project headed by world renown Faberge scholar Ulla Tillander-Godenhielm. Adams is on the Board of Editorial Review for the Gemological Institute of America’s Gem & Gemology Journal and, in addition, authors book reviews for the journal. He has lectured at museums and symposiums in the U.S., Asia, and Russia on the work of Carl Faberge, Van Cleef & Arpels, Tiffany & Co., and art historical subjects.

Tom Burstein, Director of Jewelry and Timepieces for John Moran Auctioneers

With nearly thirty years of experience, Tom Is recognized as a top specialist and business leader in the jewelry retail and auction fields. He has held senior positions at some fo the worl’s most recognized auction houses including Christie’s, Phillips, and Sotheby’s. In addition, Tom was a Vice President at Harry Winston, managing their US retail business and the Winston heritage division.

Throughout his career, Tom has been involved in the sales of many historic auctions, including the Estate of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, The Collection of Elizabeth Taylor, and the Private Collection of President and Mrs. Ronald Reagan. He has also had the good fortune to work with some of the world’s most significant and important historic jewels, including the re-setting of the Hope Diamond while at Harry Winston and the sale of the Cullinan Dream while at Christie’s. Tom is internationally recognized as a lecturer on topics such as The History of Harry Winston, Connoisseurship and notable jewels and collections that have appeared at auction.

Tom has an MA in Art History and a BA in Art History and Economics from the University of Minnesota. He also holds a Graduate Gemology degree from the Gemological Institute of America.

Maranda Moran, Vice President/Specialist John Moran Auctioneers

As a Vice President of John Moran Auctioneers, Maranda oversees a variety of auction functions including being a Specialist and Head of Sale for Moran’s American Indian Art + Objects, Art of the American West, and the Made iN Mexico auctions. As an appraiser, she regularly attends to clients appraisal needs within these categories as well as the more general estate contents as a Generalist. Maranda is Uniform Standard in Professional Appraisal Practice qualified.

Adam Neeley, Artist-Jeweler

Adam Neeley is an award-winning artist-jeweler who transforms precious metals and gemstones into wearable art by traditional goldsmith techniques and modern technologies. His unique designs are inspired by the vast variety of shapes and colors found in the natural world. In fact, it was his childhood interest in collecting rocks that eventually drew Neeley to the master goldsmiths in Italy, where he would study the art of jewelry making. Eventually he developed his own style and techniques of goldwork that have won him international acclaim, as well as prestigious awards across the jewelry industry.

Through many years of trial and error, Adam Neeley developed a never-before-seen technique that he calls Spectra Gold, which seamlessly changes one color of gold into another. This is accomplished by a labor-intensive forging process to create a subtle gradient, or ombré, of color from yellow gold to white gold and more. This, along with his creation of totally new colors of gold, adds to the sense that his jewelry is created by a modern-day alchemist.

From our humble beginnings 50 years ago, John Moran Auctioneers has grown into a trusted, full-service auction house with an international reach. Our experienced team of friendly, knowledgeable specialists can offer you or your clients the highest level of service, whether you are seeking a free auction valuation, a formal appraisal, or a customized estate liquidation plan.