My Profile  |  Contact Us  |  Member Portal

Search
American Gem Society Logo

How to Sell Your Jewelry or Diamonds: Your Questions Answered

Appraiser examining diamond ring with magnifying glass

 

There are many reasons people look for places to sell jewelry. Perhaps you have jewelry you no longer wear, that is out of style, or that you inherited. Today, many people regularly go through their possessions to free up space and find out if something collecting dust might be valuable.

So, if you want to know how to sell your jewelry or diamonds, here are some commonly asked questions and answers.

Where is the best place to sell jewelry?

Where can I go to sell my jewelry? There are a variety of options.

Some jewelry stores will buy jewelry, either for resale or for the value of the gemstones and gold or other metal. There are advantages to selling at a local jewelry store near you.

At a local jewelry store, you can speak directly to those who will be purchasing your jewelry. If the jeweler has appraisal credentials, you can be more confident in getting a fair price.

Other options may include: Pawn shops, which will buy gold and jewelry to resell. There are “buy gold for cash” places that buy jewelry for the value of the gold. You also can sell jewelry online, which usually includes sending images of the jewelry to get an estimate and then sending the piece to the buyer to receive payment.

Is getting a jewelry appraisal worth it?

While a pawn shop may offer quick money, taking the time to have a certified appraiser look at your jewelry can mean you’ll receive the right compensation for the value of your jewelry.

Does fine jewelry hold its value?

Many people wonder if jewelry and gemstones depreciate. Jewelry and gemstones generally hold their value. Gold and other metals’ value can fluctuate. These can be reused, however, as they can be melted down. Gems and diamonds can be reused in different pieces andin other settings. If your jewelry is of good quality, based on a qualified appraisal, it will hold its value and continue to be worth money for years to come.

How do you know if old jewelry is valuable?

It’s important to note that a skilled appraiser can offer a true monetary value for your gems and jewelry. The monetary value of your jewelry might not correlate with the emotional value. For instance, a family heirloom is cherished by your family, but it might not bring a high dollar return. On the other hand, sometimes people find their jewelry worth much more than they thought. Without an appraisal, you could over-value or under-value the jewelry you own.

Can you sell a diamond from a setting?

Yes, you can sell a diamond to a jeweler. Diamond rings are a commonly sold jewelry item. Old engagement rings (from former relationships), family engagement rings, and the like can be sold to a jeweler, who can then sell the gemstone separately or place it in a different setting. Be aware that the value of a laboratory-grown diamond may not hold value as well as a natural diamond. Values are based on the current market.

How can I sell my jewelry without getting ripped off?

Often people want to know how to sell estate jewelry, diamond jewelry, and used jewelry to ensure an honest and fair price. An unbiased appraisal will provide an educated assessment. Finding an accredited appraiser is the first step.

For those trying to determine how to sell jewelry, the best place to start is with an expert in gemstones and jewelry value who can offer an appraisal.

What is the best way to get jewelry appraised?

Independent Certified Gemologist® Appraisers (ICGA) and Certified Gemologist® Appraisers (CGA) of the American Gem Society (AGS) have the skills and expertise to offer valuation reports for jewelry. These appraisers have been educated in both gemology and methodologies of jewelry and diamond appraisals. All CGA and ICGA titleholders also must pass annual recertification exams to maintain this prestigious title.

Where can you find an appraisal for jewelry?

Are you looking for jewelry appraisal near you? One of the best ways to find an appraisal for jewelry is to start with an American Gem Society (AGS) jeweler. AGS is dedicated to building trust and confidence with the jewelry-buying public. AGS members aim to provide customers with the very best service and information available.

Not all AGS jewelers buy jewelry, so check with the individual jeweler. But with an appraisal, you’ll be assured you’re making good decisions and getting a fair price, wherever you choose to sell.

Use our handy Find a Jeweler tool to locate an AGS jeweler near you, or if you’re searching for an ICGA or CGA to appraise your items, use our Find an Appraiser tool.