No Stamp on an Old Deep River Ring? Start with a Test

An Older Piece Needs More Than a Glance at Its Hallmark

Testing addresses missing or uncertain marks

A 10K or 14K stamp indicates a stated alloy, while an absent stamp leaves the composition unresolved. We inspect and explain the testing appropriate to the piece rather than assuming all unmarked jewelry is either valuable or worthless. Repairs and attached components can complicate the picture. Let us examine the intact object and discuss any testing limitations with you before moving ahead. Avoid home tests that can damage the surface or put the item at risk.

Weight must match the material being valued

The weight of a complete object may include stones, steel parts, or other material that is not precious metal. We explain the quantity being used and how its tested purity affects the calculation. A mixed group of alloys should not disappear into an unexplained single weight. You can ask how the relevant groups contribute to the proposal and why two pieces of similar size may have different buying values.

Spot price provides context for a buying offer

The quoted market price for gold relates to a specified amount of pure metal. It is not an automatic payout for every ounce of finished jewelry. Purity, recoverable material, and the costs involved in buying affect the proposal. We explain our figures using the market conditions at evaluation. For a comparison with another offer, make sure the same items, weights, and timing are involved; otherwise the totals may answer different questions.

Age and workmanship are considered separately

An old Victorian-style piece may deserve attention for its design, maker, and condition as well as its gold. We look for supported demand for the complete object without promising a premium simply because it is old. Keep matching pieces together and bring relevant receipts. If identifiable qualities influence our buying offer, we explain them. If metal content is the basis, that should be clear too, rather than hidden behind a vague description of antique value.

Broken pieces and watch cases still need identification

Damaged chains, single earrings, and dental material can be evaluated for their actual composition. A gold watch presents additional questions: the case may be solid gold, gold-filled, or plated, and its movement is not part of a gold weight. Keep it assembled for inspection. A gold-filled description refers to a bonded gold layer, not the same construction as a solid alloy throughout. Other watch characteristics may matter independently of the case metal.

Coins, bars, platinum, and household silver

Gold coins and bars require identification and authenticity checks, with weight, fineness, and relevant product demand considered. Platinum pieces have their own composition and market and are assessed apart from gold. Describe these additions when arranging a jewelry appointment.

Sterling can be reviewed with the group, including matching flatware and serving pieces. Plating, filled handles, and weighted bases need to be distinguished from solid sterling. Bring sets together so pattern, completeness, and condition can also be considered.

For covered precious-metals purchases, Connecticut law requires payment by check or money order. Haven issues a same-day check when an offer is accepted.