Before you head to your local pawn shop to sell some jewelry, it’s a good idea to have an estimate of its value. With some knowledge about where it fits in the market, you can be sure you’re getting a good deal. Here’s a guide to figuring out what your pieces of jewelry are worth. 

3 Steps for Estimating the Value of Jewelry

1. Examine for Hallmarks

The best way to pin down the identity of a piece of jewelry is to locate its hallmark. Not all pieces will have one, but nicer items will usually have a series of markings that indicate their origins and details. You can generally find it on the underside of a ring or on the clasp of a necklace. It may have the initials of the company that produced the piece or the type of gold and the karat number. If that company is known for producing top-shelf jewelry or you spot a high karat number, your piece is likely more valuable.

2. Assess the Overall Condition

When you’re looking to sell anything, you’ll always receive a better price for well-maintained items. Carefully inspect the jewelry metal for scratch marks or signs of corrosion. Using a standard magnifying glass will help. Check if the clasp of a bracelet or necklace still connects easily and if the surface sheen has dulled. Are all the gems still present or has one gone missing? Adding up these factors will help you assess the jewelry’s value. 

3. Research Comparable Items

As you accumulate details about your piece of jewelry, use them to search online before you head to the pawn shop. If you can find a similar piece, its going price will give you an idea of your own jewelry’s value. Consider every detail you have at your disposal: did the jewelry come in a box with a label? What kind of metal does it contain? Does it have a distinctive feature? For instance, if there is an engraving in the shape of an eagle or an alternating set of colored gems on a bracelet, those data points can help you identify similar pieces. 

To get a fair deal and some fast cash for your jewelry, turn to a trusted pawn shop like A Happy Pawn in Honolulu, HI. In business since 1988, the pawn broker is a member of the Better Business Bureau®, having earned the trust of the community. Inquire about jewelry pricing by calling (808) 383-5253, and learn more about the pawn shop’s services by visiting their website.