A Clear Offer for Fairfield Estate Jewelry — From the First Test to the Final Weight

How We Evaluate Jewelry, Watches, and Precious Metal

Testing different karats

We examine marks such as 14k, 18k, and 750, then test the material rather than relying on a stamp alone. An estate may include several purities and pieces with different construction. Each needs an appropriate explanation, particularly when repairs or replacement components complicate the picture. We identify what is actually being evaluated and discuss any testing concerns before proceeding. Neither an item’s color nor a previous owner’s description is enough to establish its gold content.

Weight and the market reference

The weight of a whole object is not necessarily the weight of its precious metal. Stones, watch movements, and other components need to be distinguished from the material being purchased. We explain the relevant weight and purity, then use the current metal market as a reference for the offer. Buying costs and the item itself also matter, so the quoted spot price should not be mistaken for a guaranteed payout on every gram of jewelry.

Signed jewelry and wearable pieces

Designer signatures, workmanship, condition, and market demand can be relevant beyond melt value. We evaluate those characteristics where applicable and explain whether they affect our purchase offer. Some signed pieces have additional value; others do not command the premium their owner expects. An insurance replacement appraisal answers a different question from what a buyer will pay today. Bring it for context without assuming that its stated amount will become the sale price.

Broken jewelry and dental gold

Broken chains, damaged rings, single earrings, and other incomplete items can still contain precious metal. We do not require a piece to be wearable before considering it. Dental gold is assessed according to the actual alloy rather than its yellow appearance. Keep loose fragments in a separate container if possible and tell us what you know about them. Plated or filled items are identified honestly rather than quoted as if they were solid gold throughout.

Gold watches, coins, and bars

A watch needs a distinction between its case, movement, bracelet, and other parts. Solid-gold, gold-filled, and plated cases do not have equivalent metal content. Leave the watch intact for the visit so its construction can be assessed without unnecessary damage. Bullion coins and bars require checks of authenticity, weight, and fineness; collectible coins may raise a separate premium question. Keep receipts or original packaging with them when available, but packaging itself is not proof of authenticity.

Platinum and silver

Platinum jewelry is evaluated against its own purity and market, independently of gold. Sterling services and hollowware can be included with estate jewelry; we distinguish silver plate and account for weighted bases, handles, or other non-silver components. A full flatware service may need more time than a few rings. Mention its size when booking so the review can include both metal content and any relevant pattern or collectible interest.

Connecticut’s licensed precious-metals dealers must use a check or money order for payment, and Haven issues checks. If you accept our offer, your check is provided that day; holding requirements for covered items concern our subsequent handling, not a delay in paying you.