Sorting Rings, Necklaces, and Bracelets for Value

Sorting Precious Jewelry for Value

Many people have a mix of old rings, necklaces, chains, and bracelets made from different types of gold and silver. To get the most accurate value for these items, it’s important to properly identify and separate them before sending them to a trusted buyer. This guide explains step by step how to understand karat and purity markings, how to recognize sterling versus plated metals, and how to organize everything into a single record so you streamline the quoting process.

Step 1: Identify Metal Types

Start by carefully examining each item. Most gold jewelry is stamped somewhere discreet, such as inside a ring band or on the clasp of a chain. Silver items carry their own identifying marks.

Common Gold Karat Stamps

• 10K – 41.7% gold

• 14K – 58.5% gold

• 18K – 75% gold

• 22K – 91.6% gold

• 24K – 99.9% pure gold

Common Silver Marks

• 925 or Sterling – 92.5% silver

• Coin Silver – Traditionally about 90% silver, but check reference charts (U.S. Mint Coin Specifications).

• Plated – Marks such as EPNS, HGE, or “plate” indicate base metal only lightly covered with a precious layer—these usually do not have significant melt value.

Step 2: Use Simple Tests

If stamps are missing or illegible, you can use basic at-home tests:

• Magnet Test: Gold and silver are not magnetic. If an item sticks strongly to a magnet, it is likely a base metal or plated.

• Acid Test: A small drop of acid on a filed surface can indicate karat strength or confirm silver content. Basic testing kits are available but should be used with caution.

• Electronic Tester: Some handheld devices measure conductivity to confirm purity without damaging jewelry.

Keep in mind these tests are preliminary. Professional evaluation provides confirmation before quoting or payment.

Step 3: Weigh Jewelry by Group

After sorting by karat or purity, weigh each group separately. Use a pocket scale capable of weighing in grams. Buyers typically calculate melt value using weight in grams multiplied by the current market price for that purity of metal. The offer price may be somewhat less to cover refining and processing.

Organizing records like this makes preparing an online appraisal form faster and ensures transparency.

Step 4: Record and Document

Once the items are sorted and weighed, make a written list and take digital photos. Label bags or envelopes by karat group. A simple digital spreadsheet or inventory tool (such as GavelBase) can make it easier to keep track. Submitting one complete list in an appraisal form avoids confusion and prevents delays.

Step 5: Prepare for Shipping

When mailing items, choose a secure and insured method. Many buyers offer a trackable mail-in kit that includes prepaid labels and protective bags. If shipping yourself:

• Use padded envelopes or small boxes with bubble wrap.

• Seal packages with reinforced tape.

• Consolidate small fragments or scrap into small plastic bags.

• Insure your package appropriately. Reference USPS insurance information for coverage options.

• Always obtain and save tracking numbers. Registered Mail is the most secure option from USPS.

Step 6: Understanding the Testing Process

Once received, precious metal items are tested again to verify purity and weight. Processes can include electronic testing, X-ray fluorescence, or traditional chemistry tests. Reputable buyers provide clear reporting so you see the basis of any offer.

Step 7: Payment Methods Explained

After you accept an offer, payment is typically issued quickly. Common options include:

• PayPal: Fast, but may include small fees.

• Venmo: Convenient, linked to mobile devices.

• Zelle: Direct bank-to-bank with no fees, but daily limits may apply.

• Cash App: Quick, though higher transfers may trigger verification.

• ACH Transfer: Direct to bank account, secure, available within 1–2 business days.

• Paper Check: Mailed, takes longer but provides a physical record.

Step 8: Final Checklist

• Examine jewelry for stamps (10K, 14K, 18K, 925, Sterling).

• Separate by karat and metal type.

• Weigh each group in grams.

• Record items in a written list or online form.

• Photograph and bag items securely.

• Choose insured, trackable shipping.

• Review testing results and confirm payment method.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell if gold is real?

Look for karat stamps, do a magnet test, and confirm with acid or electronic testing. Real gold will not tarnish or stick to magnets.

What if my jewelry contains stones?

Stones may or may not add resale value. Most buyers focus on melt metal weight; stones may be returned or excluded from the calculation.

Does dental gold count?

Yes. Dental alloys often range between 10K–18K. Carefully separate any porcelain or steel. Even small fragments have value if collected together.

Is plated jewelry worth anything?

In most cases, plated pieces have little or no melt value, but they can sometimes be donated or recycled separately.

By carefully sorting, weighing, recording, and properly mailing your unwanted precious metal jewelry, you protect yourself and streamline the appraisal process. Keeping organized records and submitting all your categories in one online form ensures the most accurate and transparent quote possible.