How to Sell Inherited Jewelry: A Step-by-Step Guide for Families
Inheriting a jewelry collection can be both meaningful and overwhelming. These pieces may hold deep sentimental value, but there are moments when parting with inherited jewelry is the best choice. Whether to settle an estate, share assets among family members, or simply because the jewelry doesn’t match your personal style. Understanding how to evaluate, authenticate, and sell inherited jewelry is essential to ensuring a smooth and fair process. This guide explains how to assess your items and how National Rarities professionally evaluates and purchases estate jewelry.
Step 1: Understand What You’ve Inherited
Before making any decisions, take time to understand what you have.
Sort by Category
Separate rings, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, brooches, and watches. Identify matching sets, as grouped pieces may hold higher value together.
Check Hallmarks & Inscriptions
Look for markings such as 14K, 18K, 925, or designer stamps. These help identify metal purity, origin, and sometimes age.
For help identifying metals, review the jewelry services from National Rarities.
Evaluate Condition
Note missing stones, scratches, tarnishing, or repairs. Condition plays a major role in determining value.
Step 2: Have Your Jewelry Professionally Appraised
A certified appraisal is crucial when determining market value.
Work With Certified Appraisers
Choose reputable professionals trained in gemology and estate jewelry assessments.
National Rarities employs certified appraisers who follow strict industry standards, providing accurate evaluations you can rely on.
What an Appraisal Includes
An appraiser will examine gemstones, metals, craftsmanship, authenticity, and historical relevance, then provide a written report outlining findings and estimated value.
Appraisal Fees
Costs vary; always ask about pricing upfront to avoid surprises.
Step 3: Understand Authentication
Authentication ensures your jewelry is genuine and properly valued.
Gemstone Identification
Professionals use microscopes, loupes, and lab tools to determine whether gemstones are natural, lab-created, or imitation.
Designer Verification
Luxury brands like Tiffany & Co., Cartier, and David Yurman have specific hallmarks and construction details.
Learn how National Rarities verifies designer and estate pieces.
Step 4: How Estate Jewelry Is Evaluated
National Rarities uses a transparent, trustworthy process during evaluations.
Fair Market Value Analysis
Their team reviews materials, rarity, condition, and current resale demand to determine fair value.
Immediate Offers
After evaluation, they provide a competitive, no-obligation offer on the spot.
Insured Shipping Options
For individuals not located near an event or showroom, National Rarities offers fully insured, trackable shipping, ensuring your items arrive safely and securely.
Additional details can be found through their estate buying services.
Step 5: Prepare Your Jewelry for Selling
Presentation matters whether you’re selling privately or through a professional buyer.
Clean Gently
Use mild soap and a soft brush to refresh appearance. Avoid harsh chemicals, especially for delicate antique pieces.
Photograph Clearly
Use natural lighting, a simple background, and close-up shots that show details such as hallmarks.
Provide Documentation
Include past appraisals, certificates, or original boxes when available.
Step 6: Compare Selling Options
Your chosen method will depend on the items and your comfort level.
Sell to a Trusted Estate Buyer
Working directly with a reputable buyer like National Rarities ensures a streamlined, professional experience from appraisal to payment.
Online Marketplaces
Useful for lower-value items, but require time, listing management, and safety precautions.
Auction Houses
Ideal for rare or high-value pieces, though fees and unpredictable results may apply.
Private Buyers
May yield higher payouts but require vetting and caution.
Step 7: Complete the Sale Safely
Negotiate Smartly
Use your appraisal and market value research to guide expectations.
Avoid Scams
Be cautious of unusual payment requests or unrealistic offers.
Use Secure Shipping
When mailing jewelry, always use insured, trackable shipping, National Rarities includes this protection for clients.
A Trusted Partner for Your Jewelry’s Next Chapter
Selling inherited jewelry can feel emotional and complex, but with certified appraisers, insured shipping, and a transparent buying process, National Rarities provides a reliable and thoughtful way to transition your heirlooms to new owners. If you're ready to begin or want an expert evaluation of your collection, connect with National Rarities to work with a team that treats your family’s jewelry with care and respect.