Help Centre

Welcome to our help and advice centre designed to answer the majority of questions our customers have about buying and selling gold and silver. If your question is not answered on these pages or you would like additional help, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

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SELLING GOLD
GOLD PRICE
PAYMENT
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CARTIER
VANCLEEF & ARPELS
TIFFANY
ANTIQUE
How is gold valued?

Gold is valued based on its purity (measured in karats), weight, and the current market price. We use precise scales and testing methods to determine the exact gold content of your items. Our valuations are transparent, and we're happy to explain the process.

What documents do I need to sell gold?

To sell gold, you'll need to provide a valid photo ID (passport or driving license) and proof of address (utility bill or bank statement from the last 3 months). These requirements are in place to comply with legal regulations and to prevent the sale of stolen goods.

Do you buy gold coins?

Yes, we buy a wide range of gold coins including Sovereigns, Krugerrands, Britannias, and other bullion and numismatic coins. Depending on the coin's rarity and collector value, we may offer more than just the gold content value.

How do I know if my gold is real?

Real gold typically has hallmarks or stamps indicating its purity (such as 9K, 14K, 18K, 22K, or 24K). We use professional testing methods including acid tests, electronic testers, and XRF analysis to verify authenticity. Our experts can quickly determine if your gold is genuine during a free evaluation.

Can I sell gold jewelry with gemstones?

Yes, we buy gold jewelry with gemstones. For standard pieces, we typically value them based on gold content only, but for items with significant gemstones (like diamonds, sapphires, or rubies), we may offer additional value. Our gemologists can evaluate precious stones separately if requested.

How often do gold prices change?

Gold prices fluctuate continuously throughout the trading day. The market is influenced by global economic factors, currency values, and geopolitical events. We update our buying prices regularly to reflect current market conditions, ensuring you receive a fair and competitive offer.

What affects the price of gold?

Gold prices are affected by multiple factors including inflation rates, currency strength (particularly the US dollar), central bank policies, interest rates, geopolitical tensions, and supply and demand dynamics. Gold often rises during economic uncertainty as investors seek safe-haven assets.

Is now a good time to sell gold?

The best time to sell gold depends on your personal circumstances and financial goals. Gold prices have been historically high in recent years, making it potentially advantageous to sell. We recommend checking current prices on our website or contacting us for the latest rates to make an informed decision.

How do you calculate the value of my gold?

We calculate gold value using the formula: (Weight in grams) × (Purity percentage) × (Current gold price per gram). For example, 10 grams of 18K gold (75% pure) with a gold price of £50 per gram would be: 10g × 0.75 × £50 = £375. Our final offer may include adjustments based on processing costs.

Do different karats of gold have different values?

Yes, different karats have different values because they contain different amounts of pure gold. 24K gold is 99.9% pure, while 18K is 75%, 14K is 58.3%, and 9K is 37.5% pure. Higher karat gold is worth more per gram due to its higher gold content, though the actual item weight may vary.

How quickly will I receive payment?

For in-store transactions, payment is immediate via cash, check, or bank transfer. For postal sales, once we receive and evaluate your items, we'll contact you with an offer. If you accept, payment is typically processed within 24 hours via bank transfer. Larger transactions may take slightly longer due to additional security procedures.

What payment methods do you offer?

We offer several payment methods including bank transfers (BACS), cash (up to certain limits), and checks. Bank transfers are our most popular option as they're secure and typically clear within 24 hours. For high-value transactions, we can discuss additional payment options to suit your needs.

Is there a minimum amount I need to sell?

There is no minimum amount required for in-store sales. For postal service, we recommend items with a combined value of at least £100 to make the process worthwhile, though we accept smaller amounts. Even a single gold ring or earring can be valuable, so don't hesitate to bring in smaller items.

Are there any fees or commissions?

We don't charge explicit fees or commissions. Our buying price already accounts for our processing costs and profit margin. The price we quote is the amount you'll receive. For postal sales, we provide free, insured shipping materials, so there are no hidden costs to you.

Do I need a bank account to receive payment?

For bank transfers, you'll need a UK bank account. If you don't have one, we can offer payment by cheque or cash (up to certain limits for cash payments in accordance with money laundering regulations). For larger transactions without a bank account, please contact us in advance to discuss payment options.

How does your postal gold buying service work?

Our postal service is simple and secure: 1) Request a free, insured pack online or by phone. 2) Place your items in the pack and send it using the prepaid, insured shipping label. 3) We'll evaluate your items upon receipt and contact you with an offer. 4) If you accept, we'll pay directly to your bank account. If you decline, we'll return your items free of charge.

Is it safe to send gold through the post?

Yes, our postal service is completely secure. We provide special tamper-evident packaging and all items are fully insured during transit up to £15,000. We use Royal Mail Special Delivery or equivalent secure courier services. Every package is tracked, and you'll receive confirmation when we receive your items.

How long does the online selling process take?

The entire process typically takes 3-5 business days from requesting a pack to receiving payment. Pack delivery takes 1-2 days, return shipping 1 day, and evaluation 1 day. Once you accept our offer, payment is processed within 24 hours. For urgent sales, our in-store service offers immediate payment.

What if I’m not happy with the online valuation?

If you're not satisfied with our valuation, there's no obligation to sell. Simply decline our offer, and we'll return your items free of charge using secure, insured delivery. We pride ourselves on transparent valuations, but we understand that sometimes our offer may not meet your expectations.

Can I track my package?

Yes, all packages are fully trackable. When you send your items, you'll receive a tracking number that allows you to monitor the package's journey. We'll also send you confirmation when we receive your items. Similarly, if we return items to you, we'll provide tracking information for the return shipment.

Do you buy Cartier jewelry?

Yes, we specialize in purchasing Cartier jewelry and offer premium prices for authentic pieces. Cartier items often command values above their gold content due to their craftsmanship and brand prestige. Our experts are trained to authenticate and properly value Cartier pieces, including Love bracelets, Trinity rings, and Juste un Clou collections.

How do you authenticate Cartier items?

We authenticate Cartier pieces through several methods: examining hallmarks and serial numbers, assessing craftsmanship quality, verifying design details specific to Cartier, and checking documentation if available. Our specialists have extensive experience with Cartier jewelry and can identify genuine pieces. For high-value items, we may consult additional authentication resources.

Do I need original packaging or certificates for Cartier items?

While not required, original packaging, certificates of authenticity, and receipts can increase the value of your Cartier pieces and help with authentication. If you have these items, we recommend including them. However, we regularly purchase authentic Cartier jewelry without documentation and can authenticate pieces based on their physical characteristics.

How much more do you pay for Cartier compared to regular gold?

Authentic Cartier pieces typically command 30-200% more than their gold value, depending on the collection, condition, age, and market demand. Popular items like Love bracelets and Panthère watches often receive the highest premiums. Each piece is evaluated individually, and we strive to offer the maximum value based on current resale market conditions.

Do you buy damaged or incomplete Cartier pieces?

Yes, we purchase damaged or incomplete Cartier items, though their value may be reduced depending on the extent of damage. Even damaged authentic Cartier pieces often command prices above their gold value. For items missing stones or parts, we evaluate on a case-by-case basis. We recommend bringing or sending these items for a specific valuation.

Do you purchase Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry?

Yes, we specialize in purchasing Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry and offer premium prices for authentic pieces. We're particularly interested in their iconic collections such as Alhambra, Frivole, and Perlée. Van Cleef & Arpels pieces typically command significant premiums above their gold and gemstone values due to their craftsmanship and brand prestige.

How do you verify Van Cleef & Arpels authenticity?

We authenticate Van Cleef & Arpels pieces by examining hallmarks, serial numbers, and maker's marks; assessing the quality of craftsmanship and materials; verifying design details specific to Van Cleef & Arpels; and checking documentation if available. Our specialists have extensive experience with luxury jewelry and can identify genuine pieces with confidence.

What Van Cleef & Arpels collections are most valuable?

The most sought-after Van Cleef & Arpels collections include Alhambra (particularly vintage pieces), Zip necklaces, Mystery Set pieces, and limited editions. Vintage pieces from the 1920s-1970s often command the highest premiums. The value depends on rarity, condition, materials, and current market demand. Each piece is evaluated individually by our experts.

Do I need certificates for my Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry?

While not required, original certificates, packaging, and receipts can increase the value of your Van Cleef & Arpels pieces and facilitate authentication. If you have these items, we recommend including them. However, we regularly purchase authentic pieces without documentation and can authenticate based on physical characteristics and craftsmanship.

Can you value Van Cleef & Arpels pieces with missing stones?

Yes, we purchase Van Cleef & Arpels pieces with missing stones or damage, though their value will be reduced depending on the extent of the issues. Even damaged authentic pieces often command prices above their material value. Each piece is evaluated individually, considering factors like reparability, rarity, and the specific collection.

Do you buy Tiffany & Co. jewelry?

Yes, we specialize in purchasing Tiffany & Co. jewelry and offer competitive prices for authentic pieces. We're interested in all Tiffany collections including the iconic Return to Tiffany, Elsa Peretti, Paloma Picasso, and Jean Schlumberger designs. Authentic Tiffany pieces typically command prices above their material value due to the brand's prestige.

How do you authenticate Tiffany jewelry?

We authenticate Tiffany pieces by examining hallmarks and stamps (including the "T & Co." or "Tiffany & Co." marks); assessing craftsmanship quality; verifying design details specific to Tiffany; and checking documentation if available. Our specialists have extensive experience with Tiffany jewelry and can identify genuine pieces with confidence.

Do you buy Tiffany silver items?

Yes, we purchase Tiffany sterling silver jewelry and accessories. While silver items generally have lower material value than gold or platinum, Tiffany silver pieces often command significant premiums due to their craftsmanship and brand recognition. Popular collections like Return to Tiffany, Atlas, and Elsa Peretti designs are particularly sought after.

What Tiffany pieces are most valuable?

The most valuable Tiffany pieces include vintage and antique items, Jean Schlumberger designs, significant diamond jewelry, and limited edition or discontinued collections. Pieces by noted designers like Elsa Peretti and Paloma Picasso also command strong premiums. Value depends on rarity, condition, materials, and current market demand.

Do I need the blue box and documentation?

While not required, original Tiffany blue boxes, pouches, certificates, and receipts can increase the value of your pieces and help with authentication. If you have these items, we recommend including them. However, we regularly purchase authentic Tiffany jewelry without packaging and can authenticate pieces based on their physical characteristics.

Do you buy antique gold and jewelry?

Yes, we specialize in purchasing antique gold and jewelry from all periods including Georgian, Victorian, Edwardian, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco. Antique pieces are evaluated not just for their gold content but also for their historical significance, craftsmanship, and collector value. We have experts who specifically focus on antique and period jewelry.

How do you determine the value of antique pieces?

We value antique pieces based on multiple factors: age and historical period, rarity, condition, craftsmanship quality, designer or maker (if known), provenance, material value (gold, silver, gemstones), and current market demand. Our specialists have extensive knowledge of antique jewelry markets and auction results to ensure fair valuations.

Are antique pieces worth more than their gold value?

In many cases, yes. Antique jewelry often commands prices significantly above their material value due to their historical significance, craftsmanship, and rarity. Pieces from certain periods (like Art Deco) or by notable makers can be worth several times their gold value. However, damaged or common pieces may be valued closer to their material content.

Do you buy damaged antique jewelry?

Yes, we purchase damaged antique jewelry. The value will depend on the extent of damage, the rarity of the piece, and its potential for restoration. Even damaged pieces from significant periods or by notable makers can have considerable value. We evaluate each piece individually and can often see value where others might not.

How can I tell if my jewelry is genuinely antique?

Identifying genuine antique jewelry involves examining several factors: hallmarks and maker's marks specific to historical periods; construction techniques (hand vs. machine made); materials and gemstone cuts typical of different eras; patina and wear consistent with age; and design elements characteristic of specific periods. Our experts can authenticate your pieces during evaluation.

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