Jenna Bolton, G.G.
Jenna Bolton, G.G. (she/her), is a Fine Jewelry and Watch Appraiser based in the Atlanta metropolitan area and the founder of Bolton Appraisal Service. A Graduate Gemologist with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from the University of North Georgia, Jenna combines technical gemological expertise with strong business insight. Her career began with a personal passion for rocks and minerals, which evolved into a professional calling when she discovered the world of fine jewelry while working in a jewelry store during college. She went on to dual enroll in gemology while completing her business degree, laying the foundation for a career defined by precision, curiosity, and a deep appreciation for craftsmanship.
Over the past 14 years, Jenna has built a comprehensive background across nearly every facet of the fine jewelry and watch industry. Her experience includes roles in quality control gemology, luxury sales, valuation, estate buying, sourcing, and retail management. She has worked with prestigious brands such as Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Breitling, and has extensive experience handling both pre-owned timepieces and new inventory from authorized dealers. During her tenure with organizations including SwissWatchExpo, Tiffany & Co., The RealReal, and Brown and Company Jewelers, she developed a strong reputation for her analytical approach, client-focused service, and ability to translate market data into effective pricing and sales strategies.
Today, Jenna specializes in fine jewelry and Swiss watch appraisals, operating as a sole proprietor and contracting with multiple jewelry stores to provide appraisal services. Her business model offers a strategic and cost-effective solution for retailers, allowing them to meet client appraisal needs without maintaining a full-time gemologist on staff. By coordinating weekly or biweekly appraisal sessions, Jenna delivers efficient, high-quality evaluations while helping partner stores enhance their service offerings. Known for her integrity, depth of expertise, and entrepreneurial approach, she continues to distinguish herself as a trusted professional in the luxury appraisal space.
• Graduate Gemologist (GIA)
• Registered Gemologist Appraiser, Gemology
• University of North Georgia - BBA, Accounting
• Award for Volunteering with Students in Jewelry Making
• American Gem Society
• Associate Professional in Human Resources (aPHR)
• Volunteer work through local church
• Volunteering with students teaching jewelry making
• And junior gemology programs for high school and elementary school students
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to studying and a lot of self-learning. There are so many good materials that are free online now, and I would say really utilizing those resources has been key. I've spent a lot of time reading books, particularly about different time periods and different countries' royal jewels - there's just so much knowledge about jewelry throughout the world in so many different places. The beautiful thing is you don't necessarily have to go to school for all of it. There's a ton of free resources out there. You just need to find what topic it is that you love learning about and dive in. That continuous learning and passion for the subject matter has really driven my success.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received is to try any and everything. Even if you think it's something you may not be interested in, give it a shot or talk to somebody who's done it. There are so many different career paths out there that you just have no idea what's going to help you out and when. I've done a lot of odd and ends kind of jobs throughout my career, but each one has always helped lead up to something bigger and better. You never know which experience will open the next door for you.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my professional and personal life center on curiosity, craftsmanship, and meaningful connection. I take pride in continuously learning and exploring new skills, which is reflected in my recent investment in a lapidary machine to cut and polish gemstones an endeavor I’m genuinely excited to grow into. Outside of work, I value creativity and balance, which I nurture through activities like pottery and hiking. Above all, I prioritize time with my family; as a parent to a curious five-year-old daughter, I cherish opportunities to share experiences like rock tumbling, fostering both her curiosity and our bond.
Locations
Bolton Appraisal Service
Cummings, GA 30040