Frequently Asked Questions About Selling Diamonds in San Diego
Where can I sell diamonds and diamond jewelry in San Diego?
You can sell diamonds and diamond jewelry at any Leo Hamel Jewelry & Gold Buyers location in San Diego County. We buy loose natural diamonds, diamond engagement rings, wedding bands, earrings, bracelets, necklaces, pendants, natural diamond jewelry, and lab-grown diamond jewelry. Complimentary evaluations are available with no appointment necessary.
How much is my diamond worth?
The value of a diamond depends on factors including its carat weight, quality, condition, whether it is natural or lab-grown, and current market demand. When evaluating diamond jewelry, we consider the value of the entire piece, including the diamond, precious metal setting, and other factors.
Do you buy loose diamonds?
Yes. We may buy loose natural diamonds of 0.50 carat (one half carat) or more. We provide complimentary evaluations and testing to determine the value of your diamond. Some qualities of diamonds are not marketable to use in new jewelry and can’t be bought.
Do you buy lab-grown diamonds?
We accept lab-grown diamond jewelry for evaluation. However, lab-grown diamonds generally do not retain resale value in the same way natural diamonds do. As a result, offers for lab-grown diamond jewelry are typically based on the value of the precious metal setting rather than the lab-grown diamond itself.
Do lab-grown diamonds have resale value?
Lab-grown diamonds generally do not retain resale value in the same way natural diamonds do. When evaluating lab-grown diamond jewelry, offers are typically based primarily on the value of the precious metal setting rather than the value of the lab-grown diamond.
Is a natural diamond worth more when I sell it than a lab-grown diamond?
Natural diamonds generally have greater value than lab-grown diamonds. Lab-grown diamonds typically do not retain value in the same way natural diamonds do, so offers for lab-grown diamond jewelry are generally based on the value of the precious metal setting.
Does my diamond certificate affect its value?
Diamond certificates and other documentation can be helpful during an evaluation because they provide information about the diamond's characteristics. Bring any certificates, paperwork, or original packaging you have with your diamond or jewelry.
Should I bring my diamond's paperwork when I sell it?
Yes. If you have a diamond certificate, appraisal, purchase documentation, original packaging, or other paperwork, bring it with you. This information can help our buyers during the evaluation.
How do you determine the value of diamond jewelry?
Our buyers evaluate the entire piece rather than looking only at the diamond. Factors can include the diamond's characteristics and carat weight, the precious metal setting, condition, documentation, and other aspects that contribute to the item's market value. We prefer to restore vintage diamond jewelry to its best condition and pass it on to a new owner in our showroom to give it new life.
Do you evaluate the diamond and the setting separately?
We evaluate the diamond jewelry as a whole. The value of the diamond, precious metals, and other relevant factors are considered when determining an offer.
Do you buy diamond jewelry from any brand?
We evaluate and purchase a wide range of diamond jewelry. If you have a designer or branded diamond piece, bring it in so our buyers can evaluate the jewelry and determine its value.
Can I sell an inherited diamond or diamond engagement ring?
Yes. We buy inherited diamond jewelry, including engagement rings, wedding bands, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and loose diamonds. If you inherited a diamond and aren't sure what it is worth, our buyers can evaluate it and explain its value.
Can I sell a diamond collection?
Yes. We can evaluate individual diamonds and larger collections. There is no transaction size that is too large for our buyers to evaluate.
Do I need an appointment to sell diamonds?
No appointment is necessary. You can stop by any of our jewelry buying offices during office hours for a complimentary diamond jewelry evaluation and authentication.
Are diamond evaluations free?
Yes. We provide complimentary evaluations of loose natural diamonds and natural or lab-grown diamond jewelry.
Can I pawn my diamond jewelry?
Yes. Diamond jewelry can be used as collateral for a short-term loan at our San Diego Avenue location only. This option allows you to use the value of your diamond jewelry without permanently selling it.
Can I sell my diamond jewelry on consignment?
Yes. We offer diamond jewelry consignment. With consignment, you can potentially receive maximum value once your jewelry finds a buyer.
Can I trade my diamond jewelry instead of selling it?
Yes. You can trade your diamond jewelry toward new jewelry or a watch in our store.
Is selling diamonds at Leo Hamel private?
Yes. Diamond evaluations and transactions take place in confidential, secure, and private buying offices. Our buyers explain the evaluation process so you can understand how your offer was determined.
Where are the Leo Hamel diamond buying locations in San Diego?
Our San Diego County buying offices are located in San Diego Avenue near the airport, La Mesa, Oceanside, and Solana Beach. You can visit any location for a complimentary diamond evaluation.
Will I be pressured to sell my diamond?
No. We understand that selling a diamond can be an emotional decision, particularly when the jewelry has sentimental or family significance. Our private buying offices give you the opportunity to ask questions, understand your options, and make your decision without pressure.
How quickly can I sell my diamond?
The process is designed to be fast and straightforward. Visit one of our buying offices, have your diamond or diamond jewelry evaluated and authenticated, and receive your payout on the spot.
