Sell Broken Jewelry for Cash: The Ultimate Guide

There’s a common misconception that once a piece of jewelry is broken, it loses all its value. That couldn’t be further from the truth. A bent ring contains the exact same amount of gold as it did when it was new, and a luxury watch that no longer ticks is still made of valuable parts and precious metals. The real worth is tied to the materials, not the item's current condition. Understanding this is the first step toward unlocking a hidden source of funds. We’ll break down how that value is determined and show you the exact steps to take to confidently sell broken jewelry for cash to a reputable buyer.

Key Takeaways

• Your jewelry's value is in its raw materials, not its condition

  : A bent ring or a tangled chain still contains valuable gold, silver, or platinum. Buyers are interested in the weight and purity of the metal and the quality of the gemstones, which damage doesn't erase.

• Knowledge is your best negotiating tool

  : Before you sell, get a professional appraisal to understand your item's true worth. This baseline, combined with your own research, empowers you to recognize and secure a fair price.

• Never accept the first offer

  : Get quotes from several reputable buyers, both local and online, to understand the market rate for your items. Comparing offers is the surest way to confirm you're getting the best possible deal.

Is Your Broken Jewelry Still Valuable?

That tangled gold necklace, the single earring whose partner is long gone, or the ring with a missing stone—we all have a few pieces of broken jewelry tucked away. It’s easy to assume they’re worthless, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Before you consider tossing them, you should know that your broken items absolutely hold value, and often, it’s more than you think.

The key is to look past the damage and see the materials themselves. A bent ring is still made of gold. A watch that no longer ticks might be crafted from platinum and contain valuable internal parts. The real worth of your jewelry often lies in its raw components: the precious metals and the gemstones. Buyers, especially experienced ones, are experts at assessing this intrinsic value. They understand that a broken clasp or a cracked stone doesn't erase the worth of the materials. So, that little box of mismatched and broken pieces could be a hidden source of cash. The first step is simply understanding what you have and why it’s still desirable.

Gold, Silver, and Platinum Pieces

When it comes to jewelry made from precious metals, the condition is far less important than the content. The value of a gold chain is determined by its weight and purity (the karat), not whether the clasp works. A professional buyer is interested in the "melt value"—the base price of the metal itself. This means your broken, tangled, or outdated gold, silver, and platinum pieces are still highly valuable commodities.

Think of it this way: a bent 18k gold ring contains the exact same amount of gold as it did when it was perfectly round. While some pawn shops might factor in repair costs, a dedicated gold buyer focuses on the intrinsic worth of the metal. That’s why it’s so important to sell gold jewelry to an expert who can accurately assess its purity and weight to give you a fair price based on its true value.

Jewelry with Diamonds and Gemstones

It’s heartbreaking when a beautiful gemstone gets chipped or cracked, but don't assume it's lost all its value. While the damage will affect the price, many broken gemstones are still worth something. This is especially true for high-value stones like diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds. An expert jeweler can often recut a damaged stone to remove the imperfection, resulting in a smaller but still beautiful and valuable gem.

Even if a stone can’t be recut, it might still have value to collectors or designers looking for unique pieces. Plus, don't forget about the setting. If your damaged gemstone is set in a gold or platinum ring, the metal itself adds significant value to the piece. A professional appraiser can evaluate both the stone and its setting to give you a clear idea of its total worth.

Damaged Luxury Watches

A luxury watch that has stopped working or has a shattered crystal might seem useless, but it can still be incredibly valuable. High-end brands like Rolex, Cartier, and Patek Philippe are prized for their craftsmanship, brand prestige, and the precious materials they contain. Many of these timepieces are made with gold, platinum, and diamonds, all of which hold their value regardless of whether the watch is functional.

Furthermore, the intricate internal mechanisms, or "movements," contain valuable parts that watchmakers and collectors actively seek for repairs and restorations. The market for luxury items often appreciates over time, making smart strategies for selling broken jewelry and watches a great way to cash in. Never throw away a damaged luxury watch—its name, parts, and materials ensure it’s still a significant asset.

How to Check Your Jewelry's Condition

Before you decide where to sell your broken jewelry, it’s smart to take a closer look at what you have. Giving your pieces a quick inspection at home helps you understand their potential value and sets realistic expectations. You might be surprised to find that a tangled chain or a ring with a missing stone is worth more than you think. The key is to separate the piece's sentimental value from its material value.

A buyer will look at a few key things: the type and weight of the precious metals, the quality of any diamonds or gemstones, and the extent of the damage. For many pieces, especially those made of gold, silver, or platinum, the value is tied directly to the raw materials. This means that even a completely mangled piece has worth. Taking a few minutes to assess these elements will put you in a much better position when you're ready to get an offer. Think of it as gathering information so you can have a confident conversation with a potential buyer.

Identify the Gemstones and Their Quality

First, take a look at any stones in your jewelry. Even if a gemstone is chipped or cracked, it can still have value. Professional jewelers can often repair or recut damaged stones to give them a new life, so don't assume a broken stone is worthless. The type of gem is the most important factor—a chipped diamond will naturally be worth more than a perfect piece of quartz. If you know what the stones are, make a note of it. If you're unsure, a professional appraiser can identify them for you. The original quality, like color and clarity, also plays a role in its remaining value.

Assess the Extent of the Damage

Next, get specific about what’s actually broken. Is it a simple fix, like a broken clasp on a necklace, or is it more serious, like a deep crack in a gemstone? The severity of the damage will influence its value. For example, a bent ring band is an easy fix, but a shattered emerald is a more complex problem. The value of a broken gemstone depends on several factors, including its type, rarity, size, and just how significant the damage is. Understanding the specific issue will help you describe the piece accurately to a potential buyer and gauge whether a repair is worth considering.

Consider the Potential for Repair

This brings up a common question: should you fix your jewelry before selling it? The answer really depends on the cost versus the return. If a simple repair significantly increases the piece's resale price, it might be a good idea. For instance, fixing a broken prong on a diamond ring could be a worthwhile investment. However, for more extensive damage, the repair costs could easily outweigh the value you’d gain. A good rule of thumb is to get a quote for the repair first. This allows you to make an informed decision instead of guessing whether the cost is justified.

Figure Out What Materials It's Made Of

For many broken pieces, the primary value lies in the precious metals. The great news is that the value of gold is based on its purity and weight, not its condition. A crumpled gold earring is worth the same as a perfect one if they have the same gold content. Look for small stamps, called hallmarks, on your jewelry. You can usually find them on the inside of a ring, on the clasp of a necklace, or on the back of an earring. These markings indicate the metal's purity—for example, "14K" or "585" for 14-karat gold, and "925" for sterling silver.

Research Its Current Market Value

Once you know the purity of the metal, you can get a rough idea of its worth. The market price for precious metals like gold, silver, and platinum changes daily. You can easily look up the current spot price online to see what a troy ounce is going for. Remember that higher-karat jewelry contains more pure gold and is therefore more valuable. While you won't be offered the full market price—as buyers have overhead costs—knowing the base material value gives you a strong starting point and helps you recognize a fair offer when you see one.

What Is Your Jewelry Actually Worth?

Figuring out the true value of your broken jewelry is the most important step before you decide to sell. While a piece might hold sentimental value, its cash worth comes down to a few key factors: the materials it’s made of, the quality of any gemstones, and the current market demand. A tangled gold chain or a ring with a missing stone can still be incredibly valuable because the precious metals and remaining gems are raw materials that can be repurposed.

Getting an accurate valuation isn't about guesswork. It’s a process of gathering facts to understand what you have. By combining a professional opinion with a little at-home research, you can walk into any negotiation with confidence. Knowing your item’s worth helps you set realistic expectations and ensures you get a fair price. Think of it as doing your homework—it empowers you to make the best decision for your items and your wallet. Let’s break down exactly how you can determine what your jewelry is worth.

Why You Should Get a Professional Appraisal

Before you sell anything, your first move should be to get a professional appraisal. Think of it as getting an expert opinion from a neutral party. An experienced jeweler or a certified gemologist can accurately identify the metals, weigh them, and assess the quality of any diamonds or gemstones—things that are nearly impossible to do on your own. They can tell you what your jewelry is truly worth, which helps you manage your expectations and gives you a solid baseline for negotiating a price. This step is crucial because it separates the actual market value from sentimental attachment, giving you a clear, unbiased number to work with.

How to Test Your Jewelry at Home

While a professional appraisal is essential, there are a few simple tests you can do at home to get a preliminary idea of what you have. First, look for any small stamps, known as hallmarks, on the metal. You might need a magnifying glass, but look for markings like "14K," "18K," or "925" (for sterling silver). These indicate the purity of the metal. Another easy trick is the magnet test. Precious metals like gold and silver are not magnetic, so if your jewelry sticks to a strong magnet, it’s likely made from a less valuable material. This can help you sort through a mixed lot before taking it to an expert.

Check Current Market Rates for Metals

The value of your gold, silver, or platinum pieces is directly tied to the live market price of those metals, which changes daily. Before you sell, it’s a smart idea to look up the current spot price for the precious metals in your jewelry. This price is typically quoted per ounce or gram. Remember that a buyer will offer you a percentage of the market value, not the full price, to account for their own processing and business costs. Knowing the day’s rate gives you a realistic benchmark and helps you understand how buyers are calculating their offers based on your item’s weight and purity.

What Paperwork Do You Need?

Having the right documentation can make a big difference in the selling process and the final price you receive. If you have the original sales receipt, a certificate of authenticity, or a previous appraisal, gather it all together. This is especially important for items with diamonds, as a report from a lab like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) provides an official grading of the stone’s quality. This paperwork proves your item’s provenance and specifications, which can increase a buyer’s confidence and your offer. Even if the piece is broken, these documents provide essential details about the materials you’re selling.

Where to Sell Your Broken Jewelry for the Best Price

Once you have an idea of what your broken jewelry is worth, it’s time to find the right buyer. You have several options, and the best choice depends on how quickly you want to sell and how much effort you’re willing to put in. Selling locally offers speed and security, while online buyers provide convenience. If you’re up for it, selling directly to a consumer on a marketplace could fetch a higher price. Let's look at the most common places to sell your pieces.

Local Jewelry Buyers

Selling to a local buyer is often the fastest way to get cash for your broken jewelry. You can walk in, get an appraisal, and leave with payment in hand—no shipping required. As a family-owned business with over 35 years of experience in Montreal, we at Signature Gold Loans specialize in assessing the value of precious metals and stones, even in damaged items. We provide on-the-spot offers based on the true value of your pieces. Other neighborhood jewelers and pawn shops are also accessible options that can give you a quick, competitive price.

Reputable Online Buyers

If you prefer selling from home, a reputable online buyer is a solid choice. These companies have a streamlined process: you request a free, insured shipping kit, mail your jewelry, and receive an offer after their experts appraise it. Because online buyers often have lower overhead than brick-and-mortar stores, they can sometimes offer a better price. Companies like Worthy specialize in auctioning fine jewelry, while others focus on scrap metal. Just be sure to research any online buyer thoroughly and check their reviews before sending your valuables.

Selling on Online Marketplaces

For those willing to take a more hands-on approach, online marketplaces let you sell directly to the end buyer. Platforms like eBay or Facebook Marketplace can connect you with individuals looking for a specific piece to repair for personal use, potentially leading to a higher sale price. This route requires more work—you’ll need to take clear photos, write a detailed description, and manage communication with buyers. It can take more time, but the payoff can be worth it if your broken jewelry has unique features that a collector might appreciate.

Get Your Jewelry Ready to Sell

Before you walk into a buyer’s office or list your jewelry online, a little prep work can go a long way. Taking the time to get your pieces ready for sale shows a potential buyer that you’re serious and helps them see the true value of your items, even with existing damage. A good cleaning can make a piece more appealing, and having the right paperwork on hand can streamline the entire process, leading to a better, faster offer.

Think of it like selling a car; you’d wash it and gather the maintenance records first, right? The same principle applies here. You don’t need to spend a lot of time or money, but these simple steps can make a noticeable difference in your final payout. From a safe cleaning and clear photos to gathering your documents, preparing your jewelry properly sets you up for a successful and confident sale. It puts you in a stronger position to understand what you have and what it’s worth.

How to Clean Your Jewelry Safely

A gentle cleaning can instantly improve your jewelry’s appearance. For gold, silver, and platinum, a simple mix of warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap works wonders. Let the piece soak for a few minutes, then use a soft-bristle toothbrush to carefully scrub away any grime from crevices. Rinse it with clean water and pat it dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. Be extra cautious with delicate items. Porous stones like pearls, emeralds, and opals should never be soaked; instead, just wipe them with a damp cloth. When in doubt, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) offers care guides for specific materials.

Professional vs. DIY Cleaning: What's Better?

While a DIY cleaning is perfect for removing surface-level dust and oils, sometimes it’s best to leave it to the experts. If you have an antique piece, an item with intricate details, or jewelry with delicate gemstones, a professional cleaning is the safer bet. Jewelers use ultrasonic cleaners and steam to restore sparkle without risking damage. This can be especially important if you plan to get a professional appraisal. An appraiser can give you a more accurate valuation when they can clearly see the condition of the metal and stones. Often, the same expert who appraises your jewelry can advise on or perform a safe, professional cleaning.

Tips for Taking Great Photos

Whether you’re seeking an online quote or just want a personal record, clear photos are essential. You don’t need a fancy camera—your smartphone will do just fine. The key is lighting. Find a spot with plenty of natural, indirect sunlight, like near a window. Place your jewelry on a plain, solid-colored background, such as a white piece of paper or a black cloth, to make it stand out. Take photos from multiple angles, including a close-up of any engravings, brand markings, or gemstone details. A sharp, well-lit photo helps a buyer accurately assess your piece and give you a fair preliminary estimate.

Gather All Your Documentation

Paperwork can significantly increase the value of your jewelry and a buyer’s confidence. Before you sell, search for any original documents you might have. This includes the original sales receipt, boxes, and especially any certificates of authenticity. For diamonds, a grading report from a reputable lab like the GIA is the gold standard and provides a detailed analysis of the stone’s quality. Any previous appraisals are also helpful, as they provide a history of the item’s value. Having these documents ready proves authenticity and makes the appraisal process much smoother for everyone involved.

How to Store Your Jewelry Securely

Once your jewelry is clean and photographed, store it properly to prevent any new scratches or damage before the sale. The best way to do this is to keep each piece separate. Use soft fabric pouches, small plastic bags, or a jewelry box with individual compartments. This stops harder gemstones like diamonds from scratching softer metals or other stones. For chains, you can thread them through a straw and clasp the end to prevent them from tangling into a frustrating knot. Proper storage is a simple final step that keeps your items in the best possible condition until you’re ready to part with them.

Sell Smarter: Tips for Getting a Great Deal

Selling your jewelry is more than just a transaction; it's about getting the value you deserve. A little bit of strategy can make a huge difference in the final price you receive. It’s not about being a master negotiator, but about being an informed seller. By taking a few extra steps, you can feel confident that you’re making the best possible deal for your broken or unwanted pieces. This means doing your homework, understanding your options, and knowing when to walk away. Let’s walk through some practical tips to help you get a great price and ensure the entire process is smooth and secure, whether you decide to sell to a local expert or an online buyer.

Why You Should Always Get Multiple Offers

This is the golden rule of selling anything valuable: never accept the first offer. Think of it like getting quotes for a home repair—you want to see what the market is willing to pay. Different buyers have different needs and overhead costs, which directly impacts the price they can offer you. A local jeweler might be looking for specific pieces for their estate collection, while an online refiner is focused purely on melt value. By getting at least three different offers, you establish a clear baseline for your jewelry's worth. This simple step protects you from lowball offers and gives you the confidence that you’re getting a fair market price for your items.

Simple Tips for Negotiating Price

Once you have a few offers, you’re in a great position to negotiate. Start by knowing your walk-away price—the absolute minimum you’ll accept. When you talk to a buyer, you can mention that you have other offers without being aggressive. A simple, "I have another offer for X amount, but I'd prefer to work with you. Can you get closer to that price?" can work wonders. Being informed about your item’s material value and any special characteristics (like its brand or history) also gives you leverage. Remember to be polite and professional. A good buyer will respect a seller who has done their research and knows their item's worth.

Choose a Secure Payment Method

Getting a great price doesn't mean much if you can't get your money safely. When selling in person, secure payment methods like cash, a certified check, or an immediate bank transfer are your best options. For online sales, look for buyers who use trusted services like PayPal or direct deposit. Be cautious of personal checks or wire transfers from buyers you haven't thoroughly vetted. A reputable company will always offer a secure payment option and be transparent about their process. Never hand over your jewelry without having a clear, agreed-upon payment plan in place.

How to Ship Your Items Safely

If you choose to sell to an online buyer, shipping your jewelry securely is critical. Don't just drop it in a standard envelope. Use a sturdy, new box with plenty of padding, like bubble wrap, to prevent the item from moving around. It's also wise to double-box it for extra protection. Always use a shipping service that provides a tracking number, like UPS or FedEx. This allows you to monitor your package every step of the way. For an added layer of security, avoid writing anything on the outside of the box that hints at its valuable contents, such as "jewelry" or "gold.

Don't Forget About Insurance

Shipping insurance is non-negotiable when sending valuable jewelry. Standard carrier insurance often has very low limits, which won't come close to covering the true value of your pieces. You must purchase additional insurance that covers the full appraised value of your item. Reputable online buyers often provide an insured shipping label, as they understand the importance of protecting your assets during transit. Think of it this way: the small cost of insuring your package is a worthwhile investment for the peace of mind that comes with knowing you're financially protected against loss, theft, or damage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Selling Jewelry

Selling jewelry, especially pieces that are broken or have sentimental value, can feel a bit overwhelming. It’s easy to make a misstep if you’re not sure what to look out for. By being aware of a few common pitfalls, you can approach the process with confidence and make sure you get the best possible price for your items. Let’s walk through the mistakes you’ll want to sidestep.

Skipping a Professional Appraisal

It’s tempting to rely on a quick online search or your own judgment to estimate your jewelry’s worth, but this can be a costly mistake. Without a professional eye, you might undervalue a rare gemstone or overestimate the value of the metal. A professional appraisal gives you a clear, unbiased understanding of what your piece is truly worth. This knowledge is your best tool for setting realistic expectations and negotiating a fair price. Think of it as your baseline—it tells you what a fair offer should look like before you even start talking to buyers.

Using the Wrong Cleaning Methods

You want your jewelry to sparkle, but reaching for harsh chemicals or abrasive materials can cause irreversible damage. Aggressive cleaning can scratch soft metals like gold, loosen stone settings, or strip the finish off certain gems. The best approach is usually the simplest. For most gold and silver pieces, a gentle bath in warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap is all you need. You can use a soft-bristled toothbrush to carefully clean your jewelry and dislodge any grime from small crevices, ensuring it looks its best without risking its condition.

Accepting the Very First Offer

When you get an offer, it can be exciting to imagine the cash in your hand. However, the first price you hear is rarely the best one you can get. Different buyers have different evaluation methods and business needs, which means their offers can vary significantly. To ensure you’re getting a competitive price, make a point to get multiple offers from different types of buyers, including local jewelers, pawn shops, and reputable online companies. This allows you to compare and gives you leverage, putting you in a much stronger position to secure a great deal.

Not Considering Repair Options First

If a piece of jewelry has a broken clasp or a missing stone, your first thought might be that its value is significantly diminished. While that can be true, it’s not always the case. Sometimes, a minor and inexpensive fix can dramatically increase the item's market value, making the cost of the repair a worthwhile investment. Before you decide to sell a piece as-is, consult with a jeweler. They can tell you if the cost of the repair is low enough to result in a much higher selling price, helping you make a more informed financial decision.

Guessing Your Jewelry's Material Value

Trying to determine the value of the gold, silver, or gemstones in your jewelry on your own is a guessing game you’re unlikely to win. Professionals use specialized tools and rely on years of experience to accurately assess the weight and purity of precious metals and the quality of gemstones. A buyer will test these materials to determine their exact value, which will form the basis of their offer. Instead of guessing, focus on finding a trustworthy buyer who can provide a transparent evaluation of your materials. This ensures the price you’re offered is based on facts, not assumptions.

How to Protect Yourself During the Sale

Selling any valuable item, even a broken piece of jewelry, requires a bit of care to ensure you get a fair price and have a safe experience. It’s not just about finding a buyer; it’s about finding the right buyer. A little preparation can make all the difference, giving you the confidence that you’re making a smart decision. By taking a few simple precautions, you can protect yourself from lowball offers and questionable dealers. Think of it as your personal safety net. The key is to verify who you’re working with, keep good records, and follow a few straightforward steps to ensure the transaction is transparent and secure from start to finish. This process doesn't have to be intimidating. In fact, knowing what to look for puts you in control. When you walk into a negotiation armed with knowledge about your item and the buyer, you're more likely to walk out with a deal that feels right. It's about turning a potentially stressful situation into a smooth and profitable one.

Verify Your Buyer

Before you can verify if a buyer’s offer is fair, you need to have a solid idea of what your broken jewelry is worth. Getting a professional appraisal is a great first step, as it gives you a baseline value. Once you have that number, you can start researching potential buyers. Look for established businesses with a physical location and a history in your community. A quick online search for reviews can tell you a lot about their reputation. A trustworthy buyer will be transparent and happy to answer your questions without pressuring you. Trust your gut—if a deal feels too good to be true or the buyer seems sketchy, it’s always okay to walk away and find someone else.

Keep Detailed Transaction Records

Creating a paper trail is one of the smartest things you can do. It doesn’t have to be complicated. Simply jot down the key details of the transaction in a notebook or a digital file. You should include a description of the item, its appraised value, who you sold it to, the date of the sale, and the final price you received. If you have any original paperwork, like receipts or certificates of authenticity, make copies for your records before handing them over. This information is not only helpful for your personal finances but also serves as proof of the transaction, giving you complete peace of mind once the deal is done.

Check the Buyer's Credentials

When you’re selling gold, diamonds, or other precious materials, you want to work with an expert. Look for a buyer with clear credentials and a long-standing history in the industry. Do they have gemologists on staff? How many years have they been in business? A reputable establishment will have a professional website and a verifiable business address. You can also check their standing with organizations like the Better Business Bureau to see if any complaints have been filed against them. A buyer who is proud of their expertise and history is usually one you can trust to handle your jewelry and your sale with care.

Simple Steps to Ensure a Safe Transaction

A few final steps can ensure your sale goes smoothly. First, gently clean your jewelry at home with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft brush to make sure it looks its best. When you meet with a buyer, ask them to explain their valuation process. A professional will be able to tell you exactly how they arrived at their offer. Always ask for the offer in writing and get a receipt for the final sale. Never feel rushed to make a decision. A legitimate buyer will give you time to consider their offer. The goal is a transaction where both you and the buyer feel respected and satisfied with the outcome.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Should I fix my jewelry before trying to sell it? This is a great question, and the answer really comes down to a simple cost-benefit analysis. For a minor issue like a broken clasp on a gold chain, a small repair cost could be a smart investment if it makes the piece more appealing. However, for more significant damage, like a badly chipped gemstone, the cost of repair will likely be more than the value you'd gain. Before spending any money, get a repair quote from a trusted jeweler. This will give you a clear idea of whether the fix is financially worth it or if you're better off selling the piece as-is.

What if I don't have any original paperwork or receipts for my jewelry? Don't worry, this is a very common situation. While original documents like receipts or certificates are helpful, they are absolutely not required to sell your jewelry. Any reputable buyer has the expertise and tools to test the precious metals and evaluate the gemstones on the spot. They can determine the purity of the gold and the quality of a diamond without any paperwork. The value is in the materials themselves, and a good buyer will be able to identify that for you.

What's the difference between the 'spot price' of gold and the offer I'll receive? Think of the spot price as the wholesale price for raw, unrefined metal on the commodities market. A buyer's offer will be a percentage of that price. This is because they have business costs to cover, including the process of testing, melting, and refining the metal, as well as their general overhead. A fair offer from a transparent buyer will be based on this spot price, but it will never be the full 100%. Knowing the day's spot price simply gives you a strong benchmark to understand the offer you receive.

Is it better to sell to a local jeweler or an online buyer? The best choice depends on your personal priorities. Selling to a local, established buyer offers speed and security. You can walk in, have your items evaluated face-to-face, and often leave with payment the same day. This is ideal if you prefer a personal interaction and want to avoid shipping your valuables. Online buyers offer convenience, as you can handle the process from home. Just be sure to research them thoroughly and confirm they provide insured shipping to protect your items.

Will a professional appraisal cost me money, and is it worth it for just a few small items? It's important to distinguish between a formal written appraisal for insurance purposes, which does have a fee, and a verbal evaluation for the purpose of selling. Many jewelers and gold buyers will offer a free, no-obligation evaluation of your items to make you an offer. This is absolutely worth it, even for small pieces. An expert eye can spot details you might miss, ensuring you don't accidentally sell a valuable antique piece for its simple scrap metal value.