A Beginners Guide to Jewellery Valuations

Considering the factors that affect value

When assessing the value of a piece of jewellery, there are several key factors that specialists consider. While a photo can offer a glimpse, a proper valuation involves a closer inspection of multiple elements that contribute to an item’s worth. Here are some of the main things we look at:

Precious Metal Content:

 The weight of the item and the carat of the gold (or other metal such as platinum or silver) have a significant impact on its intrinsic value. For example, 18ct gold will command a higher price than 9ct gold due to its higher gold content, although these gold prices can rise and fall dramatically, making a valuation from 10 years ago inaccurate today.

Gemstone Quality:

If the piece is set with stones, the size, colour, clarity and cut of those gemstones, particularly diamonds are crucial. Origin can also be a large factor in prices of gemstones like sapphires for example, however this information can only be ascertained by further testing at a laboratory. Gemstone treatments and possible synthetics must be considered too.

Maker and Origin:

Some jewellery was crafted by well-known or collectible makers, such as Cartier, Tiffany & Co., or renowned designers like Andrew Grima, Archibald Knox or Elizabeth Gage. A maker's mark or signature can elevate a piece from simply decorative to highly desirable.

Age and Style:

Antique jewellery, particularly from specific periods such as Georgian, Victorian, or art movement periods like the Art Deco period, or the Arts and Crafts movement can be highly sought-after. The craftsmanship, design motifs and historical context all add to its charm and potential value.

Condition:

Jewellery in excellent, original condition will typically be worth more than similar items that have been heavily worn, damaged or altered.

Provenance:

A piece’s history, who owned it, where it came from and how it was acquired can significantly influence value. Jewellery with a fascinating or notable backstory, such as a link to aristocracy or a well-documented chain of ownership often carries a premium.

Rarity and Demand:

Unusual designs, rare materials or pieces that are in high demand due to current trends can increase a piece’s market value.

Sentimental vs. Market Value:

It’s important to remember that sentimental value and market value are not always the same. A piece that has been handed down through generations may hold deep emotional significance, even if its resale value is modest. Not all value can be measured in pounds and pence. Some pieces of jewellery carry a significance far beyond their material worth. In these cases, seeking a formal valuation can sometimes shift the way you see the piece, especially if the market value doesn’t reflect what it means to you emotionally. If you adore a piece and its story is what makes it special, that alone is enough. Sentimental value is deeply personal and to the right person, it can be priceless.

In Summary

Because of the many variables involved, a proper valuation usually can’t be given from photographs alone. Seeing the item in person allows a specialist to assess these details accurately and give a considered estimate of value, whether for sale, insurance, or curiosity.