Things a bit slow? This is the perfect time to build up your appraisal business. WHY? Appraising offers an affordable way to pump up revenues, introduce yourself to new customers, build your image, get to know customers' tastes and generate repair work. HOW? If you're not confident in your expertise, now is the time to learn through courses at the various gemological schools. (Many courses are scheduled around the times and locations of major trade shows.) And if a customer presents you with an unfamiliar piece, you can always get outside assistance. SOURCE: David Atlas