How Can You Tell if Your Jewellery is Valuable?

Do you have a piece of jewellery you’d like valued? Maybe it was handed down to you from a family member or perhaps you found it at a local market and are wondering if it’s valuable. Whatever the case, here are four different factors that will help you determine the value of your jewellery.

1.   Does it Have a Hallmark?

The easiest way to value your jewellery is to look for a hallmark. This will tell you the metal content, country of origin, maker, and designer, all of which are important factors when determining the value.

If it has a hallmark, you’ll find it on the clasp, inside, base, or other flat area of the piece, so make sure to give it a thorough inspection.

• Commonly found gold hallmarks: 18K, 14K, 10K, 750, 585, 375
• Commonly found platinum hallmarks: 950, PLATINUM, PLAT
• Commonly found silver hallmarks: 925, Silver, 800, Sterling

Remember, not all antique pieces will bear a hallmark, but they may still be very valuable. It’s always best to get a professional appraisal to be sure.

2.   What is the Weight?

Gold and silver are heavier than fake pieces, so if your jewellery has some weight to it, this is a good indication it has some precious metal. However, this isn’t a good indication to use alone since some pieces may be silver or gold plated which makes them feel heavy, but also means they won’t be worth as much as solid gold or silver pieces.

3.   Does it Have Prongs?

If your jewellery has what look like precious stones in it, are they sitting in a setting with little prongs holding it in place? This is another indication that it has some value. Fake or costume jewellery usually has fake gem stones glued into the setting and won’t have these prongs. This goes for necklaces, rings, brooches, and any other piece with a setting in it.

Again, just because your jewellery doesn’t have prongs doesn’t mean it’s not valuable. In fact, many highly sought after vintage pieces don’t have prongs but are extremely valuable. So never disregard a piece of jewellery just because it lacks prongs.

Ask a Professional Jeweller in Bognor Regis

The most definitive way to know what your jewellery is worth is to consult a professional. At Nicholas & Co Fine Jewellers, we offer free appraisals on all types of modern and vintage jewellery. We also buy jewellery and will give you a fantastic price if you’re looking to sell in Bognor Regis or the Sussex area.