Instappraise and NAJA Celebrate Scholarship Recipients in Jewellery Appraisal

Empowering Excellence: Investing in the Future of Jewellery Appraisal

Instappraise and NAJA's Joint Commitment to Educational Advancement

Instappraise, in a strategic alliance with the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers (NAJA), has proudly unveiled the names of three distinguished individuals selected for its 2026 scholarship program. This initiative underscores a shared dedication to nurturing educational pursuits and fostering professional growth within the intricate domain of jewellery appraisal. The scholarships are meticulously designed to bolster the expertise and credentials of aspiring and established appraisers alike, ensuring a robust future for the industry.

Celebrating the 2026 Scholarship Laureates: A Trio of Talent

The esteemed recipients for this year's scholarships are Kirstin Viland, GIA GG; Joanna Kovacs, GIA GG; and Shari Lukacs, GIA GG. Each of these professionals has been recognized for their commitment to excellence, with their scholarships tailored to support their unique career stages. This targeted approach reflects the program's understanding that professional development is a continuous journey, requiring varied support at different junctures.

Kirstin Viland: Laying the Foundation for Appraisal Mastery

Kirstin Viland received the scholarship designated for individuals not yet affiliated with NAJA but actively engaged in or pursuing formal education in jewellery appraisal. Expressing her gratitude, Viland noted, “Receiving this scholarship is a true honor, as it provides me with the means to deepen my understanding and refine my skills in the professional assessment of gemstones and jewellery.” She further articulated her anticipation of establishing a strong relationship with NAJA, built upon a foundation of comprehensive gemmological knowledge and adherence to appraisal best practices.

Joanna Kovacs: Elevating Expertise for Current NAJA Members

Joanna Kovacs, an active member of NAJA, was awarded the scholarship dedicated to those embarking on the NAJA Appraisal Studies Course. She conveyed her profound appreciation, stating, “It is with immense honor and humility that I accept this prestigious recognition from both NAJA and Instappraise. This award is instrumental in my ongoing quest to enhance my qualifications and expand my knowledge as a GIA graduate gemmologist, reinforcing my commitment to the highest standards of the profession.”

Shari Lukacs: Journey Towards Certified Master Appraiser Status

Shari Lukacs was granted the scholarship intended for NAJA Certified Members who are diligently working towards achieving the esteemed Certified Master Appraiser designation. Lukacs shared her enthusiasm, remarking, “My sincerest thanks go to NAJA and Instappraise for presenting me with this remarkable opportunity and the accompanying challenge. Advancing to the next level of my professional education will powerfully demonstrate my unwavering dedication to a career I deeply cherish. Furthermore, it will equip me with a distinct professional advantage and enhanced knowledge, enabling me to provide even superior service to my clientele.”

Comprehensive Support: The Instappraise Scholarship Package

Each scholarship package is thoughtfully curated to provide substantial support, encompassing full access to NAJA's comprehensive coursework, coverage of 2026-2027 membership dues, and a complimentary one-year subscription to Instappraise's advanced software. Raphael Boivin, the visionary founder of Instappraise, emphasized the core mission of these scholarships: “The Instappraise Scholarships are meticulously crafted to dismantle obstacles to professional advancement, thereby empowering appraisers to elevate the caliber, uniformity, and trustworthiness of their professional endeavors.”