Explaining Gram Price in Simple Words
Feb 28, 2023
A Practical Guide for Understanding Per-Gram Value
When you start sorting through old jewelry, dental gold, silver flatware, or coins, one of the most common questions is: What is the gram price? Understanding how per-gram value is calculated helps you make sense of buyer quotes, prepare items for mailing, and know what to expect when it comes time to get paid.
Step 1: Identifying Your Precious Metals
Before discussing gram price, you need to know whether your items are actually gold or silver and what purity they are. The purity rating directly affects per-gram value.
Gold Identification
Look for karat stamps such as 10K, 14K, 18K, 22K, or 24K.
Use a magnet—real gold is not magnetic, though clasp springs may be.
Magnify markings with a loupe to confirm faint hallmarks.
If tests are necessary, a simple acid test kit or electronic tester can help distinguish between plated and solid gold.
Silver Identification
Common hallmarks include 925, Sterling, or Coin (for older silver coins).
A magnet will also help—sterling silver does not stick, but plated items may have magnetic bases.
See official U.S. Mint coin specifications for silver content in coins.
Step 2: Weighing in Grams
Gram price is calculated by multiplying weight by purity, so use a digital pocket scale that measures grams accurately. The U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has resources for weights and measures to confirm accuracy if needed.
Tips for Weighing
Remove non-precious attachments (stones, clasps, glue) when safe to do so.
For tiny fragments such as dental scrap, keep all pieces in a small bag and weigh together.
Take a clear photo of each item or group before mailing.
Step 3: Understanding Purity and Melt Value
Gold and silver are not usually sold at full market price when melted down. Instead, items are tested and their melt value per gram is calculated. Buyers usually offer a percentage of melt value, depending on purity, condition, and market factors.
Gold Karat | Purity | Approx. % of Pure Gold |
|---|---|---|
10K | 41.7% | ~4.17g pure gold per 10g |
14K | 58.3% | ~5.83g pure gold per 10g |
18K | 75% | ~7.5g pure gold per 10g |
22K | 91.6% | ~9.16g pure gold per 10g |
24K | 99.9% | Nearly 10g pure gold per 10g |
Step 4: Dental Gold and Other Special Cases
Dental gold typically ranges from 10K to 18K. To prepare, separate porcelain or steel parts from the gold when possible. If unsure, send the entire piece, and professionals will separate it during testing. Keep scrap together in a labeled bag.
Step 5: Mail-In Kits and Secure Shipping
Many services provide free appraisal or mail-in kits. These usually include a secure shipping envelope, instructions, and tracking. For your peace of mind, use USPS Registered Mail insurance resources or check FedEx informational pages on tracking and insurance.
Packing Checklist
Group items by karat or type in small bags.
Include your contact information in the package.
Seal securely and keep package weight modest.
Record tracking numbers and hold onto receipts.
Step 6: Testing and Appraisal
Once your package arrives, professionals run basic assays. Expect tests such as:
Acid test—small scratch with chemical solution.
Electronic tester—non-destructive purity reading.
XRF (X-ray fluorescence)—advanced scan for composition.
Results are reported clearly before an offer is made.
Step 7: Payment Options
After accepting an offer, you can be paid in different ways:
PayPal: Fast, global, but may have small fees.
Venmo: Quick for U.S.-based transactions.
Zelle: Often instant through bank-to-bank transfers.
Cash App: Convenient for mobile payment users.
ACH bank transfer: Secure, generally 1–2 business days.
Check: Reliable for records, slower to clear.
Step 8: Documentation and Personal Records
Keep a record of weights, photos, and notes. Some people use simple spreadsheets, while others use an inventory tool such as GavelBase to track shipments. Documentation helps if anything needs follow-up.
Quick FAQs
How do I know if gold is real? Look for stamps and test with magnet, acid, or electronic tester.
What is the difference between melt value and resale? Melt value is based on precious metal content; resale may reflect condition and design.
Do silver coins always contain silver? U.S. dimes, quarters, and half dollars made before 1965 generally contain 90% silver—later issues usually do not.
Is dental gold always valuable? Yes, though purity varies and it is melted for content.
Summary of the Process
Identify metals by karat or hallmark.
Weigh items accurately in grams.
Understand purity to calculate melt value.
Sort and safely package pieces.
Ship securely with tracking and insurance.
Receive an appraisal and clear test results.
Choose your preferred payment method.
By breaking per-gram price down step by step, you can move from a drawer full of mismatched jewelry, coins, or dental scrap to a clear and fair payout with confidence.