Credentials

Tom Ryan

Tom and his wife Ginny have lived in Rockwall, Texas since 1987. They have three grown children and five grandchildren. Although born in Norfolk, Virginia, Tom grew up mostly in New England. Tom served his country as both an NCO and an Officer.

Tom has been associated with the jewelry industry throughout his career.  He spent 2 years with Gorham Silver in Providence, Rhode Island, learning the techniques of manufacturing and marketing sterling silver products. That’s also where he met Ginny.

He devoted the next 18 Years to the L.G. Balfour Company in Attleboro, Massachusetts.  Here he learned about jewelry, rings, diamonds, gems, watches and became Balfour’s General Manager of the Recognition Jewelry and Ring Division.

After Balfour, Tom, along with his wife and partner Ginny, started their own business in Rockwall Texas,  just 20 minutes east of Dallas.  For the next 25 years, Tom and Ginny built Gifts & Awards by LSJ.  In 1995 Tom won national competition honors for “Best Award Design”.

During the 90’s, Ginny kept reminding Tom of his love for diamonds and gems.  That led to him becoming a Graduate Gemologist, Accredited Appraiser, and the formation of After Five Jewelry Appraisals of which Tom is owner and Independent Gemologist/Appraiser.

Tom understands that some clients are reluctant to leave their jewelry anywhere for fear the jewels will be switched out. He is sensitive to that concern and eliminates it by NEVER keeping your jewelry overnight. You arrive with your jewelry and leave with your jewelry. It never leaves your sight.  And you get to pick from one of nine convenient business centers around the DFW Metroplex for your appointment.  Tom performs all testing, measurements, etc. right in front of you.  This is possible because he has invested in a mobile gemological laboratory. And remember, regardless of where the appraisal is conducted, Tom doesn’t take possession of your jewelry.

An active Rotarian, Tom was president of the Rockwall Breakfast Rotary Club during 1999 – 2000.

Tom was honored for his Community Service as Rockwall County “Man of the Year” for 2001 – 2002.

Tom was selected as District Governor for Rotary International’s North Texas District 5810 during
2005 – 2006. Although it is a one year office, it is a five year commitment.

Here is Tom’s educational background:

BSBA, Management Major      Bryant University                                                 Smithfield, Rhode Island

Graduate Gemologist              Gemological Institute of America                         Carlsbad, California

Appraiser Education                International Society of Appraisers                      Chicago, Illinois

Appraiser Membership            National Association Of Jewelry Appraisers        Rego Park, New York

If you live in the DFW area Tom would be pleased to help you with your appraisal needs.

Call Tom to discuss your personal and private appointment.

214-912-4544

Visit our Jewelry Appraisal Services page.