Is My Gold Scrap or Can I Get More for It?
Is My Gold Jewellery Worth More Than Scrap?
Scrap Gold or Sellable Jewellery?
At the Birmingham Gold Company, we don’t just buy scrap gold — we also offer premium prices for antique, vintage, and modern jewellery items that are still sellable. Whether it's a designer chain, a diamond-set ring, or a vintage necklace, we’ll tell you if your item qualifies for a price above our scrap rates.
If you think you may have a sellable piece, especially if it’s a named brand like Cartier, Rolex, Tiffany, Bulgari or Chanel, read on and then use our quotation form to get a price.
What to Consider Before Selling
It's difficult deciding which pieces to sell for scrap and which to try to sell privately. But be realistic: private selling can be frustrating and auctions can charge fees of 30% or more with weeks of delay. Before you go down that road, consider if the item has real resale value — and whether the condition, hallmark, and style are still in demand.
1. Items We Pay Over Scrap For
We regularly pay more for designer, diamond-set, and vintage pieces, including:
- Cartier, Bulgari, Chanel, Rolex, Tiffany & other branded jewellery (proof of authenticity required)
- Fine gold rings, pendants, necklaces and bracelets
- Antique pieces in excellent condition and / or with valuable stones
2. Condition Is Key
We carefully examine each item under high-powered loupes, just like a jeweller would. Many pieces are scratched, bent, chipped, or missing stones. Worn shanks or illegible hallmarks affect value.
Diamonds, emeralds, and rubies hold the most value — but only if they're undamaged. Chips or scratches significantly reduce resale potential. We are particularly interested in larger diamonds (¾ carat+) and old-cut stones in good condition. We do not buy diamonds less than 0.75 carat ie single stone but we often give gold weight value for smaller diamonds
Keep in mind that refurbishing jewellery or stones is costly, and most buyers will factor that into their offer — or decline the item entirely.
3. Hallmarks and Authentication
Jewellery with a full UK hallmark is far easier to resell. Other marks — like 14k, 18k, 22ct — are not always trustworthy unless certified by an Assay Office. Many foreign-marked pieces test below claimed purity.
We have tested rings stamped 22K that came in at less than 17ct via XRF analysis. If in doubt, call us or review our hallmarking article.
4. Demand and Style
Fashions change. Even once-popular gold and silver items can become outdated. Many buyers now prefer new over second-hand jewellery, and age groups over 60 are often no longer active in the jewellery market.
The strongest resale demand currently comes from the 35–50 age group. Antique and vintage named pieces can still command good prices — if in excellent condition.
Summary – Maximise Your Jewellery’s Value
Review your items carefully. Check stone condition, hallmark type, and wear. Be realistic about resale potential. If we can sell your item on, we’ll pay more than scrap — without the risks and fees of online selling or auction houses. Remember: many companies that advertise “cash for vintage” actually offer less than scrap if they can’t resell your item. We don’t work that way. For the right items, we pay more.
If you are looking to se
Gold Jewellery Value Calculator & Guide
Before assuming your jewellery is worth more than its gold content, calculate its scrap value first. Our live Gold Jewellery Value Calculator shows the genuine prices Birmingham Gold Company pays, giving you a realistic starting point based on today's gold price.
The vast majority of jewellery we buy is purchased for its precious metal value. However, a small number of antique, vintage, designer or collectable pieces in good condition may be worth more than scrap. Every item is different and any additional value can only be determined after professional assessment.
» Use the Gold Jewellery Value Calculator & Read the Complete Guide