See the Testing Behind Your Watertown Gold Offer.

Different Materials Need Different Calculations

Karat marks are the starting point

Both 14k and 18k jewelry can appear in an inherited collection, including pieces passed through Italian or Polish families in Oakville. Family history does not establish an alloy, however. We examine and test each relevant group rather than relying on color, origin, or a stamp alone. Clasps and repairs may differ from the rest of a piece. An unmarked item can still be evaluated, and the explanation should make clear what purity we are using.

Weight must match the material being valued

A scale reading for an entire ring is not necessarily its gold weight. Stones, non-gold fittings, and mixed construction need appropriate treatment. We explain the weight included in the calculation and relate it to purity and the current spot market. A market price for fine gold does not mean every gram of finished jewelry receives that amount. Ask about the components and any adjustments before deciding whether the proposed payment makes sense for your items.

Wearable estate jewelry may have other value

An older bracelet or well-made setting can merit consideration beyond its metal when condition and demand support it. That possibility is evaluated rather than promised because a piece is inherited. Bring settings assembled so workmanship and construction remain visible. A past insurance appraisal may reflect replacement cost instead of the amount available from a buyer today. We can explain where those purposes differ and whether the piece has characteristics relevant to an additional premium.

Broken pieces, class rings, and dental gold

A damaged chain or single earring can retain metal value even when it cannot be worn. Class rings vary in composition, so a school name or graduation date is not proof of gold. Dental material also needs its own alloy assessment rather than an assumed jewelry karat. Keep small fragments secure and do not attempt chemical testing at home. Plated and gold-filled pieces must be distinguished from solid gold before anyone applies a precious-metal rate to their gross weight.

Watches and bullion receive their own checks

A watch movement and other non-gold parts should not be counted as though the whole watch were gold. Bring the watch intact; there is no need to dismantle it first. Coins and bars can be reviewed during the same appointment, with attention to authenticity, fineness, and weight. Some coins have collector characteristics as well as metal content. Original packaging and receipts help identify what you have, but the current assessment depends on the material itself.

Platinum and silver

Platinum jewelry is evaluated using the relevant platinum purity and market, separately from gold. Sterling flatware and hollowware require attention to marks, weighted construction, and non-silver parts; silver plate is a different material. Pattern, condition, and demand can sometimes matter alongside the silver content. Tell us about a large service when reserving time. Connecticut’s rules require check or money-order payment for covered precious-metals purchases, and Haven pays by check. Payment is provided on the day you accept our offer, separately from any required retention of purchased items.