When it comes to valuing gold jewelry, many people are left feeling uncertain about how to determine the value of their pieces. The following tips will help you understand the factors that go into assessing a piece’s worth:
Know Your Gold Purity
Gold purity is measured in karats and is an important factor when determining the value of a piece. 24-karat pure gold is 100% gold, 14-karat is 58.3% gold and 10-karat is 41.7%. Many jewelry pieces incorporate different levels of purity; for instance a necklace may be made from 18-karat gold with the clasp being 14-karat gold.
Appraise the Quality and Craftsmanship
The quality of any gold jewelry pieces should be assessed by a trained appraiser. These professionals know how to inspect each item to determine the quality of craftsmanship, as well as look for imperfections and markings that may denote a higher value. Appraisers can also provide an estimate of the market value of the piece.
Examine Hallmarks and Stamps
Many gold jewelry pieces will have stamps, engravings or hallmarks that indicate the purity of the metal. This information can be used to help you determine if the piece is made from genuine gold and help verify its worth.
Take into Account Antique Value
Antique gold jewelry often has a higher value than new pieces because of its history and rarity. Antique items can also be made from purer gold than newer jewelry, further increasing their worth.
Consider the Weight
Jewelry is weighed in grams or troy ounces and this weight plays a role in determining the value. Gold prices are based on the metal content of each piece, so the more gold that is used in making a piece, the higher its worth.
Taking these five factors into account will help you determine the value of your gold jewelry. Knowing what impacts the price of a particular item can help you make informed decisions about buying and selling jewelry and better understand its true worth.