Frequently Asked Questions About Inherited Jewelry
How do I find out what my inherited jewelry is worth?
A professional jewelry evaluation can help determine what you have and what it may be worth. At Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers & Jewelry Buyers, our experts examine inherited jewelry to identify precious metals, diamonds, colored gemstones, watches, and designer pieces. We consider factors such as metal content, gemstone quality, brand, condition, and current market values when determining value.
How can I tell if inherited jewelry is real or costume jewelry?
It can be difficult to determine whether jewelry is made from precious metals and genuine gemstones simply by looking at it. Professional testing can identify metals such as gold, platinum, and silver and help determine whether gemstones are natural, lab-grown, or imitation. Our jewelry evaluations can help separate valuable fine jewelry from costume and fashion jewelry.
Should I get inherited jewelry appraised before selling it?
Understanding what you have before making a decision can be helpful, especially when you have inherited multiple pieces. An evaluation can identify valuable metals, diamonds, gemstones, watches, and designer jewelry so you can make an informed decision about whether to sell, keep, or trade the items.
Can you evaluate an entire jewelry collection that I inherited?
Yes. You can bring in an entire jewelry box or collection for evaluation. Our experts can sort through multiple pieces and identify fine jewelry, precious metals, genuine gemstones, designer jewelry, watches, and items that may have primarily sentimental value.
Can you identify inherited diamonds and gemstones?
Yes. Professional examination and testing can help determine the identity and characteristics of diamonds and colored gemstones. We can also evaluate jewelry containing colored gemstones such as sapphires, rubies, emeralds, and other precious and semi-precious stones.
Can you authenticate inherited designer jewelry?
Yes. We can examine inherited jewelry from recognized designers and brands to help identify the maker and determine whether the item has collectible or resale value. Designer markings, construction, materials, and other identifying characteristics may be considered during the evaluation.
Can you evaluate inherited watches?
Yes. We evaluate inherited watches, including collectible and pre-owned luxury watches. Our experts can help identify the brand and model and assess characteristics that can affect the watch's value and resale market.
How much is inherited gold jewelry worth?
The value of inherited gold jewelry depends on factors including the karat or purity of the gold, the weight, current gold market price, and whether the jewelry has additional value as fine jewelry, designer jewelry, or an antique or collectible item. We test the metal to determine its composition before assessing its value.
Is inherited jewelry worth more than its gold value?
Sometimes jewelry can have value beyond its precious metal content. Diamonds, gemstones, designer names, watches, age, craftsmanship, rarity, and condition can all affect value. An evaluation can help determine whether a piece should be valued as jewelry rather than simply for its gold or other metal content.
What should I do with jewelry I inherited from a loved one?
You have several options. You can keep the jewelry as a family heirloom, sell items you do not plan to keep, trade inherited jewelry toward jewelry you would rather wear, or have the piece remade into one that fits your style. The first step is understanding what you have and what it is worth.
Can I sell inherited jewelry without an appointment?
Yes. You can stop by any Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers & Jewelry Buyers location during business hours for a complimentary evaluation, and no appointment is required.
Do I have to sell my inherited jewelry after having it evaluated?
No. An evaluation does not obligate you to sell. You can learn what your jewelry is worth and decide whether you want to keep it, sell it, trade it, or remake it.
Is an inherited jewelry evaluation confidential?
Yes. Jewelry evaluations are handled discreetly and confidentially. You can have your inherited jewelry examined and learn more about its value without any obligation to sell.
How long does an inherited jewelry evaluation take?
The time required depends on how many pieces you bring and how much examination or testing is needed. A small number of straightforward items can generally be evaluated more quickly than a large collection containing diamonds, gemstones, watches, or designer jewelry.
Where can I get inherited jewelry evaluated in San Diego?
Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers & Jewelry Buyers provides complimentary inherited jewelry evaluations at its four San Diego County jewelry buying offices. You can bring in a few pieces or an entire collection to have the jewelry identified and evaluated by experienced professionals.
