Ready to sell your gold jewellery? Letting go of pieces you no longer wear can free up funds quickly, whether you’re putting money towards a holiday or treating yourself to a new replacement gold bangle. Because gold prices move daily and there are several ways to sell, such as selling online or on the high street and because jewellery often has sentimental value, it’s worth approaching the sale thoughtfully and well-informed. Below are five practical points to help you choose how and where to sell your rings, necklaces and bracelets with confidence.
Before selling your gold jewellery it’s crucial to know the basics: carat (purity) and weight. Jewellery in the UK is commonly 9–22 carat (24 carat is pure). Hallmarks often show fineness numbers such as 375 / 585 / 750 / 916. Very small gold items under 1 g are exempt from UK hallmarking, so unmarked does not always mean “not gold”. We can confirm purity and weight and provide a written quote; some branded/antique pieces may carry value above melt.
You can check the current gold spot price and calculate a rough value of your gold based on this. However it is important to remember that jewellery may also have craftsmanship, historical, and sometimes brand value, which can affect its overall worth. Consider getting a professional appraisal at Cheshire Gold Xchange.
There are many businesses you can approach to sell your gold jewellery. Some of these include local jewellers, pawn shops, online gold buyers, and auction houses. Each have their own pros and cons. To compare fairly, ask for itemised written quotes showing carat, weight and the market price reference used. We apply the same clear process in-store and by post and publish our rates, so you can compare like-for-like. Auction houses or specialty sites are suitable for high-value, antique, or designer pieces, though they come with fees and often the prices achieved after fees can be lower than you could have achieved through a scrap gold buyer and there is also no guarantee of sale. Research and compare options to find the best fit for your needs.
It can be difficult to part ways with a piece that carries memories, it may have been gifted by a loved one or passed down through your family. It's important to prepare yourself emotionally to be ready to part with your jewellery. We always provide a no-pressure selling environment, so if you are feeling hesitant, consider storing your jewellery away and revisiting the decision later. For gold pieces with deep emotional connections it might be worth exploring other options, such as recycling the jewellery into something new you'll wear or passing it on to family members. Many customers will also remove the gemstones from their gold jewellery and use these stones in a new piece, and proceed to still sell the gold.
In the UK you may be asked for ID as part of standard anti-money-laundering checks. If items form part of an estate, ensure you have the authority to sell. Note that large cash payments for goods (≥ €10,000, single or linked) fall under HMRC High Value Dealer rules. If you’re unsure, seek appropriate legal guidance.
Cleaning your jewellery isn’t essential, but readable hallmarks help. Avoid harsh cleaners and leave cleaning of delicate or stone-set pieces to a professional. We use professional testing (e.g., XRF for a fast, non-destructive surface reading) when hallmarks can't be relied on.
Selling gold jewellery is a decision that requires careful consideration of several factors. By understanding the value of your items, choosing the right venue to sell gold to, preparing emotionally, knowing the legal aspects, and presenting your jewellery well, you can ensure a satisfactory experience. Remember, the goal isn't just about making a sale but doing so in a way that respects the value of your pieces and meets your needs.
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