BBB Tip: Buying and selling jewelry

Are you in the market to buy a piece of jewelry for yourself or someone special? Or do you have a piece of jewelry you’d like to sell? Either way, it can be difficult to know where to start.

You can buy and sell jewelry through a jeweler, pawnbroker, or public. Whatever you choose, make sure to do your research. 

Remember the following BBB tips to ensure a successful and satisfying jewelry transaction.

Buying jewelry:

• Do your research. Common complaints to BBB against jewelry stores allege poor craftsmanship, issues returning items, and problems with guarantees and warranties. Before you visit any store, check BBB.org to find a trustworthy BBB Accredited jeweler near you. Read a business’s complaints and Customer Reviews to see others’ experiences. You can also ask family and friends for recommendations.
• Visit more than one store. Your first step should be to decide on a budget and your expectations. Some jewelry stores are very high-end, while others have great deals. Be clear with store staff about how much you’re willing to spend and what you want to buy – this will help you stay in your price range and avoid making extra purchases. Shop around to find the best prices and most appealing styles.
• Read the fine print and ask questions. Before purchasing, read the refund, warranty, and guarantee policies carefully. If you, or the gift recipient, don’t like the item or realize it doesn’t fit, how long do you have to return it? What happens if your watch breaks or a stone on your ring comes loose? Ask for the details if the store advertises a “lifetime guarantee” policy. If buying jewelry online, check out BBB’s guide to savvy online shopping.
• Keep the receipt. Just in case something goes wrong, ask for and make sure to keep a receipt. You can also ask for a certificate of replacement cost or an appraisal listing the qualities of your gemstones or precious metals to accompany your receipt. If your jewelry comes with a gemological certificate, get the original and keep it with your receipt. This can help with reselling in the future.
• Weigh the importance of resale value. If you're investing in jewelry, consider its resale value. Classic designs and high-quality materials often retain value better than trendy or unconventional styles. 

Selling jewelry:

• Shop around. Research businesses at BBB.org – you want to be able to trust them! If you’re considering a pawnbroker, find out if they need a special license in your state or province. Take your time, and consider it a red flag if you’re pressured to rush into a transaction. Get four or five estimates to determine the market value of your piece.  
• Be careful using a mail-away service. Understand all of the terms and conditions before you mail your jewelry. Take photos, make a list of your items, and insure them before sending them. Know how long it takes to receive an offer and how long you must accept or reject it.
• Get an appraisal or evaluation. Have your jewelry professionally appraised to understand its market value. This is especially important for high-value pieces like diamonds or vintage items. 
• Understand the difference between resale and retail value. Jewelry often sells for less than its original retail price. Be realistic about what you can expect to receive. 
• Know your worth. Keep in mind that jewelers and pawnbrokers intend to resell your piece. You may be able to make more by selling to the public, but it comes with additional risk. Don’t let your jewelry of different karat values be weighed together. Separate your jewelry by karat value before selling, and be wary of dealers who weigh all jewelry together and pay you the lowest karat value. Ask the buyer what the melt value of your items is so you can make an informed decision.
• Verify the buyer. If selling to an individual or through an online marketplace, verify the buyer's credentials or reviews to avoid scams.

Find BBB Accredited jewelry stores near you. 

If you have an issue with a jewelry buyer or seller, your BBB is here to help! You can easily file a complaint online at BBB.org/complain.

BBB of the Golden Gate contributed to this article.