Appraisal I (sage ability)

A skill that enables the character to correctly identify the approximate value of items according to their workmanship and innate worth. The skill does not actually assign a monetary value to the item ~ but it does suggest an approximate comparative value of the item in relation to other similar objects.

The skill includes distinguishing the approximate value of virtually anything that is made, as manufactured goods are inherently ordinary, superior, worthy, excellent, magnificent or genius in quality. The upper five qualities, beginning with superior, are progressively 2.3, 5.29, 12.17, 27.98 or 64.36 times as valuable (thereafter adjusted randomly; see valuables).

On sight, a common book can be distinguished from those that are uncommon, rare or arcane. A gemstone may be recognized as ornamental, fancy, semi-precious or precious, provided the appraiser can either physically touch the object or apply a light behind it. Seeing the gemstone in open daylight is sufficient.

Likewise, white gold can be distinguished from silver or platinum, and 14 karat gold can be distinguished from 18 karat or 24 karat gold, based upon the lustre of these metals. Brass, bronze, pewter and copper can be likewise recognized for what they are.

Forms of cloth can also be so identified: cambric from damask and linen, muslin from cotton, serge from worsted or plush, etc.

Regarding food goods, the bottling of wine, the end results of making tobacco or opium, the odorous quality of perfume and similar like qualities can also be recognized through the skill.

Further examples may be included as they are ruled upon.

The skill offers no insight on the potential liquidity of the item (whether or not it can be easily sold), the item’s halo effect (who owned it, raising its value) or any knowledge relating to the item’s scale, intensity or medium, enabling the art’s valuation.  The skill cannot tell if an item is magical or not.

See Burglary