At National Rarities, we buy a variety of jewelry. We consider the type of metal, stones, designer, condition and quality. We begin by asking a few questions about the pieces while we look them over. We ask questions such as: Why are you selling this item? Who owned the piece?
Our estate specialists look for hallmarks specifying the metal's type and purity and sort them accordingly. After the items are sorted, the buyer will examine the stones to determine their carat, cut, clarity and color. Then they weigh the items to calculate the value of precious metals.
Current market trends are considered when determining the price of everything we purchase. Sometimes, this requires extra time if the buyer needs to check our records or get a second opinion. We take this extra step to ensure we offer the best possible price.
After the buyer has collected the necessary information, they will verbally communicate their offer and write it down. They will continue to evaluate and price items until everything has been assessed. The estate specialists are happy to answer questions or explain how we determined a specific offer. Sometimes, we have a coworker take another look.
Recently, a vintage gold charm bracelet was brought to one of our events. The charms ranged from gold-plated to 18-Karat gold. They were soldered onto the bracelet, so removing and weighing them without damaging the piece was impossible. All of the charms were counted and tallied by their purity level. An initial price was determined, but to ensure accuracy, another estate specialist re-examined the piece. Both buyers generated the same number, so the offer was conveyed and accepted by the client. However, they wanted to keep one of the charms. Our estate specialist removed the charm, deducted the value of that piece from the offer and completed the sale.
All of our items are assessed for resale, but we buy scrap or broken jewelry too. One memorable purchase was a delicate 14-Karat gold hoop a pet had chewed on. The piece was beyond recognition or repair. However, it was a quick transaction to determine the current market value of the gold and make an offer.
If you need clarification on the type of metal or stone in your pieces, bring them to us! Our estate specialists are happy to sort through items and let you know which ones we will purchase.
Most color gemstones do not have much resale value because they are often treated. Because of this, we require a prominent lab certification such as GIA or AGS. This certifies the authenticity of the gems and discloses if the stone has had any treatments or simulations done to enhance the color or clarity. Many think that because their item is older it is not enhanced. However, synthetic gemstones have actually been around since the 1800’s!
If you have fine jewelry, luxury watches, coins, or collectibles you no longer use, you might be sitting on more value than you think. Right now, certain high-quality items are seeing strong demand across the United States, and selling them has never been easier.
If you have ever wondered how to tell if jewelry is real, here are some simple tips.
Estate jewelry carries stories. It could be an heirloom diamond ring, a vintage bracelet passed down through generations, or an antique brooch that has been sitting in a jewelry box for decades. When it comes time to part with these pieces, many people assume the best option is to list them online. After all, it’s quick, convenient, and seemingly exposes your items to a wide audience.
But here’s the catch: convenience doesn’t always mean value. In fact, working with estate jewelry buyers in person at a trusted buying event often leads to stronger offers, and here’s why.
At first glance, selling online feels straightforward. Take a few photos, post a description, and wait for bids or offers. The reality? It’s rarely that simple.
Market Uncertainty – Unless you’re an expert, it’s difficult to know if your asking price matches the true market value.
Risk of Scams – Online platforms carry the risk of fraudulent buyers or disputes after the sale.
Fees and Commissions – Many websites take a percentage of your final sale price, cutting into your profit. Some charge as much as 15% for the sale, plus shipping fees and insurance eats into the sale as well.
Time Commitment – Listing, responding to messages, negotiating, shipping, and insuring all fall on you. Some items may take months to sell online
What looked like a quick transaction often turns into weeks of effort, with no guarantee of getting the best price.
National Rarities hosts buying events across the U.S., partnering with local jewelers to provide a safe and professional place to sell. For those looking to sell estate jewelry, these events create a very different experience:
On-the-Spot Appraisals – Trained buyers evaluate your items right in front of you. No waiting for online bids.
Fair Market Offers – Because buyers work with current demand and know what collectors are seeking, you receive a competitive, real-time offer.
Immediate Payment – Accept the offer, and you leave with cash the same day.
No Hassle – No shipping, no photographing, no online fees. Just straightforward selling.
One of the biggest advantages of an in-person event is the expertise behind the appraisal. A vintage Art Deco ring, for example, may look like just another piece of jewelry online. To the right buyer, however, its craftsmanship, period design, and rarity give it added value.
This is where estate jewelry buyers excel: recognizing the unique qualities that online shoppers or generic resale sites might overlook. If you’re looking to sell vintage jewelry, working with professionals ensures your piece is valued for more than just its metal or gemstone weight.
Selling online might feel convenient, but when the goal is to maximize your return, in-person buying events consistently outperform. The combination of expert evaluation, immediate offers, and competitive pricing means your estate jewelry gets the respect and the cash offer it deserves.
Instead of settling for less online, consider attending a National Rarities buying event near you. You may be surprised by just how much your treasures are worth when they’re seen by the right eyes.
