Those may be fine pieces of jewelry, but for various reasons, you don’t wear them anymore. Have you considered selling your vintage jewelry? Rather than collecting dust, that bracelet or ring of yours may show off their charm on someone else’s hand. You could make somebody else happy and be financially rewarded in turn. People often don’t know who to turn to if they want to sell gold in San Diego North County. Among the handful of gold buyers out there that you don’t know, finding one you can trust may be a real gamble. Though you may not want to wear it, you still want to get a fair price for your heirloom. There are several guidelines you should consider if you are to find a reputable gold and jewelry buyer. Armed with knowledge, you’ll know where to look, what to expect and how to sell gold in San Diego North County or another area where you live.

Know how the worth of gold jewelry is measured

Gold value is based on purity and weight, multiplied by current gold spot prices. Pure 24-karat gold (24K) is 100% gold. Pure gold is very soft and is rarely used to make jewelry. Most fine gold jewelry contains other metals like copper, zinc or silver in order to give it strength and durability. 14K and 18K gold is often used for jewelry in the US. 14K gold is 58.5% gold and 41.5% other metals, and 18K gold is 75% gold and 25% other metals. So the higher karat number means higher purity. The more gold content there is in a piece of jewelry, the higher its worth per weight. You can even sell damaged or broken pieces and single earrings. All that matters is that it’s gold. If you sell gold jewelry to gold dealers who will melt it down or resell it to a refinery, the value will be roughly estimated by multiplying the weight of the pure gold in the item by the market price of the metal per unit of weight. Often times, no value is given to any diamonds or gemstones contained in the jewelry.

Look at the value of the whole item

Many gold buyers only consider the components of the jewelry and base the offer on their value as separate materials. A few gold and jewelry buyers may also consider the value of the design, brand, condition, and age of the jewelry, and so offer a better price. Typically, these jewelry buyers want to refurbish and resell your jewelry pieces as jewelry, and not melt it down for scrap. A few jewelry stores also offer to take trade-ins as partial payment for another jewelry item. So if you’re leaning toward a new purchase and you have an old watch or diamond jewelry you don’t wear anymore, you may be able to trade its value toward the new purchase.

Find a trustworthy jeweler

Though rushing to a local cash-for-gold company may seem convenient, it’s unlikely to get the most money in return for your precious metal. Your items might be worth more than you think, and more than you’d get from a cash-for-gold firm. If you’re selling your gemstones and gold as a complete item of jewelry, look for a jewelry store that values qualities such as antiquity, brand name and outstanding design. Your go-to gold and jewelry buyer should be licensed, reputable, and have been in business for many years. Check for customer reviews online. Although no business can make everyone happy, those that have a lot of positive reviews are doing the right things.

Not sure it’s real gold?

If you want to sell your golden jewelry, but you are not sure it’s real gold, don’t hesitate to get a valuation from a licensed jewelry buyer. The buyer will professionally test your jewelry for gold content and test any gemstones to assess how much your items might be worth. Reputable jewelry buyers won’t pressure you to sell until you’re ready.

Helpful and experienced personnel

The minute you get into the store and start a conversation, you’ll be able to tell if the person who’s serving you is pleasant and helpful. Look for trustworthy, straightforward and knowledgeable personnel. The staff should treat every potential customer with respect and present him with facts and options.

Sell gold to San Diego North County experts at Leo Hamel Jewelry Buyers

If you are looking to sell gold or jewelry in San Diego North County, Leo Hamel Jewelry Buyers is your go-to place. We buy gold jewelry, coins, bullion, gold scraps, fillings, and industrial scrap, as well as most kinds of fine jewelry and watches. We do consider the piece as a whole and refurbish fine pieces to resell them in our jewelry store whenever possible. Our jewelry buying offices are safe, private, and secure, with professional buyers and Graduate Gemologists ready to assist you. Find the jewelry buying location that is closest to you on our website. Or call 619-299-1500 for more information. No appointment is necessary!