Meet Your Concierge Gemologist
In an industry that can often feel opaque or overly transactional, STL Gems was created to offer something more thoughtful and client-centered. Our promise is simple: to bring clarity, integrity, and expert care to every interaction — without bias, pressure, or conflict of interest. As a third-party appraiser, Jake does not buy or sell the items he evaluates. Instead, he operates with complete independence, empowering clients to make confident, informed decisions.
Whether you’re evaluating a family heirloom, managing a large estate, or sourcing rare stones for custom design, STL Gems offers the experience and integrity you need to move forward with confidence.
Credentials you can count on
Graduate Gemologist
Awarded by the Gemological Institute of America, Resident Program 2013 at GIA World Headquarters
USPAP-Compliant Appraisals
Accredited Senior Gemologist
Awarded by the Accredited Gemologist Association
Contributor, International Gem Society
Credentials you can count on
Graduate Gemologist
Awarded by the Gemological Institute of America, Resident Program 2013 at GIA World Headquarters
USPAP-Compliant Appraisals
Accredited Senior Gemologist
Awarded by the Accredited Gemologist Association
Contributor, International Gem Society
From Fascination to Trusted Expertise
At STL Gems, our mission is to empower you with clear, honest, and expert guidance in a world where transparency is rare and trust is earned.
Founder Jacob Talve-Goodman, a Graduate Gemologist (GG) from the Gemological Institute of America, brings decades of professional expertise in gem identification, jewelry appraisal, and market valuation. He is a candidate member of the American Society of Appraisers and an instructor for the International Gem Society. His mobile gemological laboratory provides state-of-the-art testing and evaluation services to private collectors, families, attorneys, financial planners, and retailers alike.
Born into a family that prioritized global travel, creativity, and adventure, Jacob’s early exposure to art, culture, and natural wonders laid the foundation for a life devoted to the study and stewardship of precious materials. Today, that legacy continues through a practice built on education, independence, and advocacy.
The Concierge Gemologist is not affiliated with any jewelry store or buying group. That means our only loyalty is to you. Every consultation is designed to demystify the process of understanding and valuing your jewelry — whether it’s a family heirloom, a recent purchase, or an entire estate collection. We meet you where you are, increase your marketplace savvy, and help you curate pieces that truly reflect your taste, values, and goals.
From Fascination to Trusted Expertise
At STL Gems, our mission is to empower you with clear, honest, and expert guidance in a world where transparency is rare and trust is earned.
Founder Jacob Talve-Goodman, a Graduate Gemologist (GG) from the Gemological Institute of America, brings decades of professional expertise in gem identification, jewelry appraisal, and market valuation. He is a candidate member of the American Society of Appraisers and an instructor for the International Gem Society. His mobile gemological laboratory provides state-of-the-art testing and evaluation services to private collectors, families, attorneys, financial planners, and retailers alike.
Born into a family that prioritized global travel, creativity, and adventure, Jacob’s early exposure to art, culture, and natural wonders laid the foundation for a life devoted to the study and stewardship of precious materials. Today, that legacy continues through a practice built on education, independence, and advocacy.
The Concierge Gemologist is not affiliated with any jewelry store or buying group. That means our only loyalty is to you. Every consultation is designed to demystify the process of understanding and valuing your jewelry — whether it’s a family heirloom, a recent purchase, or an entire estate collection. We meet you where you are, increase your marketplace savvy, and help you curate pieces that truly reflect your taste, values, and goals.
Jake is an outstanding guy. He has a passion for gemology that is evident. Having a conversation with The Concierge Gemologist is a worth while stop on your journey to understanding and valuing your own precious gemstones and jewelry.
Jonah Lieberman
Jacob is a very knowledgeable and trustworthy gem specialist. He helped me assess and sell pieces of my jewelry collection. I appreciated his concierge service of meeting at my home too! Highly recommend.
Victoria Singer
Jacob helped me with looking through family pieces and suggesting new uses for them. I love the necklace he had made for me. But my favorite piece is the ring he had made with the birthstones of my daughters and grandchildren. I wear it every day. Jacob is knowledgeable and creative, and I thoroughly enjoyed working with him.
Sally Altman
Jake was wonderful, helping us with a few jewelry items and watches. I found him to be honest and transparent with the pieces we were evaluating for estate and insurance purposes. His service was top-notch, coming to our home for the services. I would highly recommend Jake at The Concierge Gemologist for any independent appraisal needs.
Gene Toombs
Jake is an experienced jeweler and very professional. He repaired an antique necklace and did a beautiful job. I highly recommend him.
Flo CK
I have bought many custom made pieces from Jake. The quality of his jewels, design expertise, and his ability and desire to steer his clients to the right jewelry for their needs makes him a superb person to work with. I highly recommend him to anyone who wants a jeweler who is a wonderful craftsman and to know that you are getting the finest quality product for a reasonable price.
Toby Epstein
Jacob came to the house, which was a good idea for me. I felt much more comfortable and safe. He is very knowledgeable and was able to help me to make some decisions concerning my jewelry. Jacob spent more than an appropriate amount of time in helping me decide what to keep and what to get rid of. He was able to sell two pieces for me. Overall I’m very happy.
Elizabeth Sayre
Working with Jake has been a great experience. He provided a caring, attentive, and personalized experience in helping to design my wedding band.
Justin Hampton
I would 100% recommend The Concierge Gemologist for all my jewelry needs. Jake is incredibly knowledgeable, and his presentation of the items he appraised was outstanding. I personally have never worked with anyone with such high standards and ability. I will continue to use Jake for ALL my appraisal needs. Sincerely, Thank you, Jake!
Cheryl Berry-Levison