Expert Guide: How to Sell Your Fine Jewellery

When it comes to selling fine jewellery, it can prove priceless to do a little research before jumping in. Not only can it maximize the value you could achieve for your jewellery, it can make the whole process easier and less daunting. This blog will provide you with a comprehensive guide on all aspects of Selling Fine Jewellery.

What is the best way to sell expensive jewellery?

The best way to sell expensive jewellery is to research companies that would be most suitable for purchasing high-end jewellery. Look at what a company has previously sold and this will give you an idea if they have the market for your items. Market demand fluctuates significantly from country to country, for example, some items of jewellery are more suitable for an American audience, while others may be particularly popular in the Middle East, so make sure the company you sell them to has an international reach to ensure they can give you the best price.

Privacy and discretion during the process can also not be underrated. Choose a company that recognises this and offers a service such as private appointment rooms so discussions regarding value to not have to be overheard by members of the public. Private appointments can also provide you with a one-to-one service where you can ask questions and have appropriate time dedicated to you for confidential discussions.

How to sell expensive jewellery in the UK?

The most important aspect is to find a company you trust. This can sometimes feel like an overwhelming task when you start the process if you do not have a relationship with a company already, but start with something as simple as looking at their reviews and their industry specific accreditations, which can assure you they have the experience and expertise to understand your jewellery. Once you have short-listed a few companies, contact each of them with information on your jewellery, ideally including photographs and any old documentation you have for them. Make sure you continue the process with a company you are comfortable communicating with.

Is it better to sell jewellery online or in person?

This really depends on personal circumstances and who you choose to sell your jewellery to. An in-person appointment is usually preferred for high value items. If you are local to the jewellers of choice, or if you want to attend several jewellers in one day, an in-person appointment can be an efficient way to speak directly with a jeweller and provide them with the opportunity to examine your item.

If you are trying to sell to a private individual, then listing your item can showcase your item to the general public, however, always be mindful that selling fine jewellery online does come with additional risks.

If you are not wanting to sell your items online, but also unable to attend your preferred jewellers in person, enquire if they offer an insured postal service.

What are top three tips for selling jewellery?

1-Information

Before you jump into listing an item online or contacting a jeweller for the potential sale of an item, collect all the details you have for the piece of jewellery, including old documentation, any certification, previous valuations for insurance or receipts. Send all the details to the jeweller at the start of the process to make it as efficient as possible.

2- Photographs

We understand we’re not all photographers in the making, but mobile phones tend to take more than sufficient quality photographs. A few different angles of the item can be helpful for the buyer to make provisional assessments as to whether they would be interested in purchasing the item. However, do bear in mind that all jewellers will need to assess the item in person too before an affirmative offer can be made.

3- Realistic Values

Understand the difference between a valuation for insurance purposes and the value for selling an item and be realistic about the achievable value. The valuation for insurance is how much you would need from your insurer to replace the item with a new equivalent, you will not get the new retail replacement price listed on a valuation when you come to sell a piece. When a piece of jewellery is being sold second-hand, a jeweller has to offer it to the public at an enticing price, as otherwise customers will simply purchase a new item. Potential buyers will also have to consider additional factors that are not reflected in the valuation for insurance, for example:

• How saleable is the item? This question forms the backbone of all offers of second-hand and antique jewellery. The saleability is the most important factor, for example brooches are much more difficult to sell second-hand than a ring. Some item designs may be dated or, equally, in very high demand, for example, effects such as bark texturing that were common in the 1970’s make an item far less desirable in todays market, but original 1970's and 80's fine coloured gemstone bracelets by sought after jewellery houses are having a revival in popularity.

• The condition of the item is a really important factor in the re-sale of an item. If the piece is worn beyond restoration, it can make a once-beautiful rare item very difficult to sell. Likewise, if a delicate antique item has been kept immaculately, this can be greatly rewarded when selling if the item has become are rare in that condition.

Where to sell your jewellery:

Hatton Garden is a great place to start your search when selling jewellery. The area has some key advantages when you are looking to sell fine jewellery, with so many jewellers in close proximity, prices are usually more competitive than other places in the UK. London based jewellers are also more likely to have a wide international reach with a significant re-sale market of fine jewellery. Hatton Garden, also boast high concentration of jewellery experts, who will understand rarer items value and the intricacies of fine jewellery market.

If you’re looking to sell your fine jewellery, whether it’s a diamond ring, an heirloom bracelet or a pair of diamond earrings you no longer wear, we can help. We will give you a free no obligation offer during the appointment, if accepted we will make an immediate transfer directly to your bank account, ensuring safe and secure payment to you. The price we offer will always be guaranteed, so you can be safe in the knowledge the sale is secured.

We are also accredited by the IRV Institute of Registered Valuers, the Jewellery Valuers Association and the Academy of Experts, so you can be sure we are able to offer the best, and fairest price for your jewellery.

If you have any questions read our FAQ on Selling Jewellery page or you can use our Live Chat or give us a call on 0203 116 0069 where a member of our team will be happy to answer all of your questions.