Are you wondering where to sell jewelry that you don’t need? Here are the best places to sell jewelry online and near you to make extra money.
If you want to sell your stuff and make money, you can sell engagement rings, necklaces, rings, bracelets, and whatever else you have.
Selling jewelry can help you make money when you have items that you don’t need anymore. There are different ways to do it, both online and in your local area.
You can use websites like eBay or Facebook Marketplace for a broad audience. If you have expensive jewelry, sites like Worthy or TheRealReal might be a good fit. You can also sell directly to local places like jewelry stores, pawn shops, or at craft fairs, if you need cash right away. They all have their advantages and disadvantages, and I will be going over each below.
Best Places To Sell Jewelry Online and In Person
Below are the best places to sell jewelry online through selling apps and online marketplaces, as well as in person near you.
1. Worthy
I think that one of the best places to sell jewelry online is Worthy.
Selling jewelry like diamond engagement rings or fancy watches can be a way to make money on jewelry that you do not need anymore.
Worthy uses an auction setup, which means many people will see your jewelry, with a good chance of getting a higher price than at your local pawn shop or other online marketplaces.
You can sell items like the below on Worthy:
- Earrings
- Wedding or engagement rings
- Necklaces, pearls, and more
- Bracelets
- Loose diamonds and gemstones
- Watches
You start by telling Worthy what you’ve got (necklace, ring, etc.). They give you free shipping (insurance included) to send it to them. Once your jewelry is in their hands, they clean it up, have it evaluated, take some quality photos, and even get an appraisal.
You get to set a minimum price you’re okay with – called a reserve price – before your jewelry hits the online auction stage.
The whole process typically takes around 2 weeks from shipping to getting paid.
2. Local jewelry stores
When you decide to sell your jewelry, one way is with local jewelry stores. These shops tend to have personalized service and can give you immediate payment for your jewelry pieces. So, if you want to sell your jewelry in person, then this may be the best option for you.
You’ll want to start by researching local jewelry stores near you with good reputations, such as by looking for reviews online or asking people you know for recommendations.
Prior to visiting, understand the value of your jewelry. Some stores might do appraisals, but getting an independent one is often better for comparison so that you know how much money you should be asking for.
And, don’t hesitate to negotiate the price offered. Store owners expect it, and you might be able to get more money for your jewelry.
Some local stores offer trade-in options too. You might receive a higher value if you choose store credit instead of cash.
Make sure to bring your ID with you, as most jewelry stores will require it to process the transaction.
By choosing to sell your jewelry locally, you can typically make money a lot faster than if you sold your jewelry online, which is a huge benefit.
3. Pawn shops
If you want to know where to sell jewelry near you for cash, then pawn shops are typically the first choice.
Pawn shops are local businesses that give cash right away for items, such as fine jewelry, high-end collectibles, and electronics. Pawn shops operate by providing you with a loan based on the collateral value of your item or by purchasing it from you outright.
At a pawn shop, you’ll find a process that’s usually quick and straightforward. Whether you decide to pawn or sell, the staff will assess your jewelry’s value. This value depends on current market prices, the item’s condition, and more. Gold, silver, platinum, diamonds, and gemstones are typically accepted, regardless of their condition.
Before you visit, clean your jewelry to make sure it looks its best, and gather any certifications or paperwork that verifies its authenticity or value. This preparation can help you get a better offer.
Selling vs. pawning:
- Selling: You receive cash immediately for your item without any obligation to repay.
- Pawning: You get a loan based on the value of your jewelry, with the chance to reclaim your item once you repay the loan plus interest.
4. Selling at auctions
If you want to know where to sell your jewelry to get the most amount of money, then an auction may be it because there is usually a wide audience to bid on your pieces.
You will want to find an auction house and contact a jewelry specialist. It’s important to understand that your jewelry will be sold to the highest bidder once the auctioneer concludes the bidding.
Fees vary, so it’s important to ask about buyer’s premiums and seller’s commissions, as these will impact your final take-home amount. Also, carefully read the terms and conditions before you agree to auction your jewelry, as you need to be aware of payment procedures and timing.
5. eBay
If you’re thinking about selling your jewelry, eBay can be a good place to sell it. It’s an online marketplace (I’m sure you’ve heard of it) with lots of people looking for all different kinds of things around the world.
I have personally sold many items on eBay over the years, including jewelry (nothing too expensive, as I’ve never had expensive jewelry, but there is more expensive jewelry listed on eBay as well). It’s an easy way to list your jewelry online and see if people around the world are interested in buying it.
When you want to sell, take clear pictures of your jewelry from all sides and focus on any logos, textures, or stones. You can also show how the jewelry looks on real people or mannequins to help buyers see how it fits.
To price your pieces competitively, research what similar items are selling for. This may include looking at sold listings to understand how other sellers title and describe their items.
eBay charges a final value fee when your jewelry sells, so factor this into your pricing. With the right approach, eBay can be the perfect place to earn money while clearing out your jewelry box.
6. Consignment shops
Consignment shops are another popular place to sell jewelry.
Consignment means the shop will sell your jewelry for you and take a percentage of the sale price as their fee. This fee can range from 10% to 70%, so it’s important to ask about the commission rates before agreeing to sell your items.
When choosing a consignment shop, remember to:
- Check their reputation and reviews.
- Understand their commission rates and payment methods.
- Ask about their process for valuing jewelry.
- Ask about how they secure and insure your items while in their possession, just in case a customer walks away with it.
What makes consignment shops different from the others is that you will not receive any money until someone actually buys the jewelry. So, if it’s an in-person consignment shop, that could be weeks or even months.
7. Yard sales
When you’re looking to sell your costume or lower-value jewelry, you may want to set up a yard sale.
These local events are perfect for selling items that range from playful dress-up accessories to the everyday pieces you no longer wear.
I recommend putting a mirror near where you have your jewelry for sale at your garage sale so that people can see how they look with your jewelry. This can help on-the-spot decisions and give individuals a “try before you buy” experience.
Now, jewelry at a yard sale typically does not sell for much. You may get just a few dollars for your jewelry pieces. But, if you have a lot of jewelry that is not worth a lot, this is an option to sell it fast and earn at least a little bit of money.
8. Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace can be a convenient online platform if you want to sell your jewelry. With local and nationwide reach, it allows you to list your jewelry easily.
All you have to do is take some pictures of your jewelry from different angles and write a title with a quick description. You will also want to include the type of jewelry, the brand, condition, and mention any certificates or appraisals that it has.
Start by taking clear photos of your jewelry from different angles, and make sure to include close-up shots to highlight details and any craftsmanship.
Because Facebook Marketplace typically means that you will be meeting buyers in person, I highly recommend meeting in well-lit public places for local transactions or using secured payment and shipping methods for long-distance sales.
9. Local craft fairs or markets
If you have a lot of handmade jewelry to sell, then you may want to try setting up a stand at a local craft fair or market. These events give you a chance to present your handmade pieces to a community that appreciates more unique and artisanal items.
To find the right venue, research local fairs and markets that attract buyers interested in jewelry. Look for events that have a history of successful artisan sales. Remember, not all fairs are created equal, so pick ones that match your style and audience.
10. TheRealReal
If you have luxury jewelry you’re ready to part with, you can try selling through TheRealReal.
The RealReal is a high-end consignment online store that sells luxury items, such as designer clothing, shoes, and jewelry. You can earn up to 85% of the selling price for your items.
This marketplace specializes in consignment sales of high-end items. If brands like Chanel, Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Tiffany & Co., and Rolex are in your collection, you’re in luck, as TheRealReal is known for these luxury names.
11. Sotheby’s
If you want to sell your valuable jewelry, Sotheby’s is a respected auction house known for selling fine art, jewels, watches, and wine. They are well-known globally, with offices in cities like Geneva, New York, Los Angeles, and Hong Kong.
Sotheby’s is known for handling the sale of expensive jewelry, and they have made headlines with the auction of the Royal Jewels from the Bourbon Parma Family, which fetched millions of dollars.
They have specialists who are experts who can help you understand the value of your jewelry and guide you through the consignment process. They’re always ready to view pieces in person, and you can schedule an appointment or ask about a visit.
12. Cash for Gold USA
Cash for Gold USA is a company that buys gold jewelry, such as gold necklaces. They also buy silver jewelry and diamond jewelry.
Cash for Gold USA gives out free appraisal kits, and these kits are the first step to figuring out how much your items are worth. It doesn’t matter if your jewelry is in excellent condition or a bit damaged; they are interested in buying a lot of gold and silver jewelry.
The mail-in system they have makes sure that you can send your gold without worry that it will be lost. They prioritize making it an easy and secure process for you. Here is what you need to do:
- Request an appraisal kit or download the shipping form from their website.
- Mail your gold or silver jewelry safely.
- Wait for an offer.
- Get paid.
If you decide to accept their offer, you will receive payment for your jewelry. Keep in mind that the current market price and the condition of your jewelry will affect the offer you get.
It’s important to note that Cash for Gold USA also buys other forms of gold, not just jewelry. They accept coins, watches, and even scrap gold. They claim to offer competitive prices and a 10% bonus on your quote when you obtain a certified appraisal from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). This can potentially give you more cash compared to other competitors.
Tips for Selling Your Jewelry
Before you sell your jewelry, it’s important to know its value, make it look its best, and showcase it well with good photos. Skipping these steps might put you at a disadvantage when selling.
How to find out how much your jewelry is worth
Knowing how much your jewelry is worth is important because it affects where and how you sell it.
If your jewelry is valuable, you might get better offers at places like Sotheby’s auction house or specialized services for fine jewelry.
On the other hand, if your jewelry has a lower market value, then local options or online marketplaces could be faster and easier for selling.
To find out how much your jewelry is worth, try getting an appraisal from a certified professional. They look at things like quality, gold content, and whether there are diamonds or other precious metals to figure out the value.
You can find a good appraiser through groups like the American Gem Society.
Preparing jewelry for sale
After you find out the value, make sure your jewelry is ready to sell.
Cleaning is important; you could even think about professional services to make it shine, especially for valuable items like diamond pieces. Check if any repairs are needed, and keep records of the jewelry’s quality and materials.
These details will help convince potential buyers of its value.
Photographing your jewelry for listings
Take photos that show off the sparkle and details of your jewelry, making them really appealing to buyers.
Use a high-quality camera, and take pictures in natural light when you can get the most accurate representation of your jewelry.
If you’re selling online, make sure your pictures are sharp, clear, and show the true condition and quality of the piece.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about where to sell jewelry.
What is the best way to sell jewelry?
The best way to sell jewelry depends on what you have. If you have an engagement ring to sell, then I recommend trying to sell it on Worthy. If you need cash right away (such as the same day), then finding a local jewelry shop or a pawn shop near you may be good options. If you have a lot of cheap jewelry, such as costume jewelry, then Craigslist or Facebook may be good options.
Where can I get the most money for selling jewelry?
To get the most amount of money for your jewelry, think about selling your jewelry directly to consumers on online platforms. This skips the middleman and lets you set competitive prices.
How can I sell my jewelry without getting ripped off?
To avoid being ripped off, research the current market for similar jewelry, set a fair price, and always use secure payment methods and platforms with protections for sellers. If you’re selling high-value items, getting an appraisal from a certified gemologist or a trusted jeweler can also provide proof of your jewelry’s value.
Is it better to sell jewelry to a pawn shop or jewelry store?
Selling to a jewelry store might get you a better amount of money if the store is interested in the resale value of your pieces. However, pawn shops usually pay you faster. If you need quick cash and are willing to accept a potentially lower price, pawn shops can be an option.
Do local jewelers buy jewelry?
Many local jewelers buy jewelry, especially if it’s a piece they can resell or use for parts. It’s always a good idea to have a few consultations with different jewelers in your area to compare offers.
What is the best place to sell jewelry near me?
The best place to sell your jewelry near you depends on the type of jewelry you have. If it’s modern or in high demand, local jewelers or consignment shops might give you good prices. But if it’s unique or antique, you might get better results from specialized markets or online platforms that target specific audiences.
Best Places Where To Sell Jewelry – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on where to sell jewelry online and in person.
As you can see, there are many places to sell your jewelry. Whether you have sterling silver, an engagement ring, a diamond necklace, sapphires, rubies, or even historical or estate jewelry for sale, there are many jewelry buyers who may be interested in the jewelry pieces that you no longer want.
Have you sold jewelry before? Where is your favorite place to sell jewelry?
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