What to Do With Unwanted Silver Necklaces and Rings

Practical Guidance for Handling Unwanted Silver Jewelry

If you have old silver necklaces, rings, or other jewelry that you no longer wear, you may be wondering how to determine if they're valuable, how to separate solid sterling silver from plated items, and what to do with them next. This guide walks you through identification basics, sorting methods, value factors, safe packing, and reliable ways to get paid.

Step 1: Identify Silver Jewelry

The first step in deciding what to do with silver necklaces and rings is learning whether your items are made of genuine silver or silver-plated base metals.

Look for Hallmarks and Stamps

• 925, .925, or Sterling – indicates sterling silver (92.5% pure silver).

• 800 – indicates 80% pure silver, common in older European items.

• Coin Silver – may indicate about 90% silver, typical in older U.S. flatware.

• No marks – does not always mean it’s not silver, but further testing is needed.

Plated vs. Solid Silver

Plated items usually have marks like EP, EPNS (Electroplated Nickel Silver), or simply Silverplate. These contain only a thin layer of silver and are not worth melt value.

Simple At-Home Checks

• Magnet Test: Silver is not magnetic, but many base metals are. If your piece sticks strongly to a magnet, it is not solid silver.

• Visual Inspection: Worn areas may reveal yellow or copper-colored base metal if the piece is plated.

• Acid Test Kits: Available online, they reveal specific silver purity but must be used cautiously and can damage the piece.

• Electronic Testers: More advanced but give clearer readings of silver content without acid.

For official reference, the U.S. Mint coin specifications page shows silver content in historical coins, which can also apply when evaluating old jewelry or coin-like charms.

Step 2: Sort and Prepare Your Jewelry

Once you know what’s solid silver and what is plated, separate items into clear groups. This helps avoid confusion later.

Sorting Checklist

• Solid sterling (925 or sterling marked pieces) in one pile.

• “800” or other partial silver alloys in another.

• Plated silver or costume jewelry apart from precious metals.

• Rings with stones – note that stones may not add melt value but could affect who wants to purchase them.

Quick Prep For Mailing

• Remove obvious non-metal parts when safe (e.g., fabric cords, plastic toppers).

• Keep all small fragments, such as broken clasps, inside labeled bags to prevent loss.

• Take clear photos of each group before mailing.

• Note hallmark details in a document or app. Tools like GavelBase can help maintain a simple record of descriptions and weights.

Step 3: Weigh and Estimate Value

The melt value of silver is based on weight and purity. Use a small digital pocket scale capable of measuring grams for accuracy.

Melt Value vs Resale Value: Jewelers or refiners typically pay based on silver’s current market price, minus refining and handling costs. Intricate vintage pieces could sometimes resell for more than melt, but most damaged or outdated jewelry is priced at scrap/melt value.

Step 4: Safe Packing and Mail-In Process

Many sellers choose insured mail-in services to handle unwanted silver. A secure process protects both your jewelry and payment.

Packing Checklist

• Place jewelry in small, sealed bags by type.

• Wrap bags in protective padding.

• Place padding in a sturdy box or padded mailer.

• Use shipping options with insurance and tracking.

Some services provide free tracked and insured mail-in kits, including labels and packaging instructions. Always keep your receipt, tracking number, and photographs until payment arrives.

Step 5: Understanding Testing & Payment

Once received, a buyer or refiner will test your items. Expect straightforward tests such as electronic scans, acid tests, and magnified hallmark checks. These ensure purity before an offer is finalized.

Common Payment Methods

• PayPal: Fast, common, but some fees.

• Venmo: Quick transfers tied to mobile numbers.

• Zelle: Direct bank-to-bank transfer, immediate if both banks support it.

• Cash App: Convenient for small amounts, instant within app balance.

• ACH Transfer: Standard direct deposit, no app required, may take 1–3 days.

• Paper Check: Slower, but traditional and trackable through mail.

Step 6: Keep Records

Always keep a simple record of what you ship. Record weight, hallmark info, and take photos. This ensures peace of mind and helps in case of claims with postal insurance.

FAQs About Selling Silver Necklaces and Rings

• How do I know if my jewelry is real silver? – Look for hallmarks (925, sterling), check with a magnet, and consider a professional or mail-in testing service if unsure.

• Will stones in my rings increase the payout? – Usually not unless they are real gems. Basic stones or glass are not added into melt value payments.

• Is silver-plated jewelry worth anything? – Most plated items are not bought for melt value, though some collectible antique pieces may have value for other reasons.

• Should I clean my jewelry before sending it? – Light cleaning is fine, but avoid harsh polishing that could remove hallmark details.

Conclusion

Sorting silver necklaces and rings by hallmark, separating plated from solid, weighing carefully, and documenting each step saves you trouble and increases trust in the process. With a secure mail-in kit, proper packing, insured shipping, and clear payment methods, you can confidently turn unwanted silver jewelry into cash while keeping records and peace of mind.