Linda LaPorte G.G., A.M.
Education
2015- American Society of Appraisers
• Principles of ValuationCourses
2010- Gemological Institute of America- Graduate Gemologist
2008- Gemological Institute of America- Accredited Jewelry Professional
2007- Jewelry Manufacturing and Repair Certificate- Austin Community College
• Stonesetting
• Wax Carving andCasting
• Fabrication andRepair
• Specialtopicsinwatchesandjewelry
Continuing Education
2015- Identifying Glass Fillings and Healed Fissures in Corundum- GIA Lab
2015- Advanced Diamond Grading- GIA Lab
2016- Master Gemologist Appraiser
2018- USPAP Update
2018- Synthetic Diamond Identification course
2022 Co-Authored Opal Identification Guide for ASA Appraisal Handbook
2024- USPAP Certification
Professional Affiliation
Member- Gemological Institute of America Alumni Association
Member- National Association of Jewelry Appraisers
Member- American Society of Appraisers
Previous Work Experience
2026- Owner LaPorte Jewelry Appraisals
2024- Independent Contractor for State of Texas in Unclaimed Property
• Appraise unclaimed jewelry, watches and loose stones for auction
2017-2025 Master Jewelry Appraisers
• Lead Appraiser/Gemologist
2014-2024 Independent Sub-Contractor for United Stated Marshalls Services
• Appraised seized jewelry, watches and loose stones for auction
2013-2017 Kirk Root Designs
• Lead Appraiser/Gemologist
2013 Eliza Page Jewelry Store
• Sales associate
2010-2011 Gold Buyer
• Verified jewelry for gold purity, diamonds, and gemstones
• Calculated fair market value based on current gold prices
2010-2011 Home Consignment Center Jewelry department
• Intake and evaluate consignment jewelry for current market
• Jewelry Appraisals
2010-2011 Independent Jewelry Appraisals
2009 Midas Manufacturing
• Wax Carving
• Custom design for loose gems and diamonds
• Fine Jewelry sales
2008-2010 Assistant Appraiser to C. Kirk Root at Austin Jewelry Appraisers
2005-2010 Appraisals/Sales Associate at Kirk Root Designs
• Fine jewelry and watch sales and customer service
• Custom design for loose diamonds and gemstones
• Initial evaluation, research, and preparation of jewelry appraisals