How to Prepare Your Gold Jewelry for Sale

Proper preparation can help you get the best price for your gold jewelry and make the selling process smoother. Follow these expert tips before your valuation appointment. ## 1. Gather All Gold Items Collect all the gold jewelry you're considering selling. Don't forget to check: - Jewelry boxes and drawers - Safe deposit boxes - Inherited items in storage - Broken or damaged pieces (still valuable!) - Single earrings or incomplete sets ## 2. Sort by Purity If possible, group items by their karat markings (9K, 14K, 18K, etc.). This makes the evaluation process more efficient and helps you understand the breakdown of your collection's value. ## 3. Check for Hallmarks Look for stamps or markings that indicate: - Gold purity (375, 585, 750, etc.) - Manufacturer marks - Country of origin - Designer signatures Document these markings with photos if they're hard to see—they can sometimes add value beyond the gold content. ## 4. Separate Precious Stones If your jewelry contains diamonds or gemstones, note this during your valuation. While many gold buyers focus on the metal value, quality stones may have additional value. At Aurelia, we can recommend trusted jewelers for separate stone valuations if needed. ## 5. Weigh Your Items If you have a kitchen or jewelry scale, weigh your gold pieces. This gives you a baseline understanding of what to expect. Remember that jeweler scales measure in grams or troy ounces. ## 6. Clean Gently (Optional) Light cleaning with mild soap and water can help assessors see markings and details. However, avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning methods that might damage pieces with antique or collectible value. ## 7. Research Current Gold Prices Check the current spot price of gold before your appointment. This helps you understand the market context, though remember that buyers pay a percentage of spot price (typically 70-85% for retail transactions). ## 8. Gather Documentation Bring any available: - Original receipts or certificates - Appraisal documents - Provenance information for antique pieces - Insurance documentation ## 9. Consider Emotional Value Take time to decide which pieces you're truly ready to sell. There's no rush—reputable buyers like Aurelia never pressure sellers. Some items may have sentimental value that exceeds their monetary worth. ## 10. Choose the Right Time While you can sell gold anytime, market conditions fluctuate. If you're not in a hurry, you might watch gold prices for a favorable time. However, trying to "time the market" perfectly is difficult even for professionals. ## What to Expect at Your Valuation At Aurelia, we provide: - Professional testing using XRF technology - Transparent weighing in front of you - Clear explanation of our calculations - Written quote with no obligation - Same-day payment if you choose to sell Preparation ensures a smooth, professional experience and helps you feel confident about your decision.