Not all jewelry that sparkles is created equal. Some pieces sitting quietly in your jewelry box may be worth more than you imagine, especially if they carry signs of fine craftsmanship, rare materials, or a luxury name behind them. Whether you’re considering selling, insuring, or simply curious about your collection, knowing what to look for can make a major difference in understanding a piece’s true market value.
Here are the key indicators your jewelry might be worth far more than you think—and why getting a professional appraisal at Biltmore Loan and Jewelry in Scottsdale can reveal what your eyes might miss.
1. Look for Precious Metal Hallmarks
Before admiring the sparkle of your jewelry, take a closer look at the metal. Fine jewelry is almost always stamped with small marks—called hallmarks—that indicate metal purity.
You’ll often see stamps such as:
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10K, 14K, 18K for gold (the higher the number, the purer the gold)
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PT950 or PLAT for platinum
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925 for sterling silver
These tiny engravings are typically found on the inside of rings, clasps, or the back of pendants. Hallmarks confirm the authenticity and purity of the metal, which directly affects its value. An 18K gold bracelet will command a significantly higher price than a 10K one, and platinum—rarer and denser—often appraises even higher.
If your jewelry lacks a hallmark, that doesn’t automatically make it worthless. Some antique or custom-made pieces predate modern stamping standards. In those cases, an expert can test the metal’s purity during an appraisal to determine its real worth.
2. Identify Designer or Luxury Brand Stamps
The name behind your jewelry can be just as valuable as the materials themselves. Look closely for designer or luxury brand stamps—often subtle engravings that signify origin.
Brands like Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Bulgari, and David Yurman are highly sought after in both retail and resale markets. Their pieces maintain strong demand among collectors and can significantly increase in appraised value.
A pair of diamond earrings from Tiffany & Co., for example, could sell for several times more than an identical unbranded pair. Likewise, a Cartier Love Bracelet or Van Cleef Alhambra pendant in excellent condition remains one of the most reliable investments in fine jewelry today.
If your piece still has its original packaging, serial number, or authenticity papers, keep them—they add even more resale value. Branded jewelry often carries prestige and collector demand that can dramatically raise its price compared to unmarked pieces.
3. Check for Unusual or Rare Gemstones
Not all gemstones are created equal, and some are far rarer—and more valuable—than others. Beyond diamonds, keep an eye out for stones like alexandrite, Paraíba tourmaline, padparadscha sapphire, or natural emeralds and rubies with exceptional color and clarity.
Even among common gems, origin and treatment matter. A Kashmir sapphire or a Colombian emerald can be worth exponentially more than similar-looking stones from other regions. Rare gems can dramatically increase a piece’s value, especially when certified by a gemologist.
A professional gemologist can determine not only the stone’s authenticity but also whether it’s natural or lab-created—a distinction that can mean the difference between hundreds and tens of thousands of dollars.
4. Notice Antique or Vintage Craftsmanship
If your jewelry looks like it came from another era, that’s not just charm—it might be value.
Antique and vintage pieces often showcase craftsmanship that’s difficult (and expensive) to reproduce today. Think hand-engraved filigree, old mine-cut or rose-cut diamonds, and distinctive Art Deco or Edwardian designs.
Older pieces often feature techniques and details that are no longer produced in modern manufacturing, making them highly collectible. Collectors and dealers appreciate these pieces not only for their materials but also for their history and artistry. Even if a ring or brooch doesn’t carry a brand name, its unique style or technique could make it a rare find worth preserving—or selling for an impressive sum.
5. Consider the Piece’s Weight and Size
When it comes to fine jewelry, size can indeed matter. The weight and proportions of your piece contribute directly to its market value.
Heavier gold chains, thick bangles, or larger diamond solitaires typically carry higher appraisals because they contain more precious metal or higher-carat gemstones. A three-carat diamond ring, for instance, doesn’t just triple the price of a one-carat version—its rarity can multiply the value even more.
In fine jewelry, size and weight make a real difference. Keep in mind, though, that balance and design still play a role. A massive but poorly cut gemstone won’t outshine a smaller, better-cut one. That’s where professional evaluation becomes key.
6. Bring It for a Professional Appraisal
Even with all these visual cues, the best way to know your jewelry’s true worth is through a professional appraisal. Experts have the tools and experience to evaluate your piece’s materials, authenticity, provenance, and market trends.
At Biltmore Loan and Jewelry in Scottsdale, experienced appraisers can often uncover hidden value—whether it’s a vintage clasp from Cartier, a rare gemstone inclusion, or a forgotten hallmark on the underside of a pendant. A quick appraisal can reveal valuable details you might’ve overlooked, and it’s often the only way to accurately gauge a piece’s potential resale price.
If you’re considering selling, Biltmore offers immediate purchase options for fine jewelry in excellent or pristine condition. You’ll receive a fair market offer without the hassle of listing or waiting for an auction.
Final Thoughts
Your jewelry might be more than a keepsake—it could be a hidden investment waiting to be rediscovered. From hallmarks and designer names to gemstone rarity and craftsmanship, every detail tells a story about its value.
Before letting any piece collect dust, take a few minutes to inspect it—or better yet, bring it to professionals who can give you the full picture.
If you’re in Scottsdale, Arizona, stop by Biltmore Loan and Jewelry for a complimentary evaluation. Whether you’re ready to sell or simply want to know what you own, their team can help you find out what your jewelry is truly worth.