How to Tell if Your Old Jewelry Is Worth Something

Everyday Jewelry Might Be Worth More Than You Think

Gold Rush Denver helps people across the State figure out what their old jewelry is really worth.

From tangled chains to rings that haven’t seen daylight in years, unexpected value shows up often. Many sellers are surprised to learn that condition or style doesn’t matter much—what matters is metal content.

With walk-in locations throughout Denver, Littleton, Colorado Springs, and much more, Gold Rush Denver sees all kinds of items come through the door. Our team shares a few simple ways to check if what’s sitting in your drawer is worth bringing in.

How to Tell if Gold Is Real or Plated

Real gold carries resale value. Plated gold does not. That’s the difference most sellers need to understand right away.

Gold-plated jewelry has only a thin outer layer of gold covering a base metal like copper or brass. It looks nice but won’t be worth much at a buyer’s scale. Solid gold, on the other hand, gets priced based on its purity and weight. Look for karat markings such as 10K, 14K, 18K, or 24K. These usually appear on clasps, ring bands, or the back of pendants. Some older items may have worn markings or none at all.

Gold Rush buyers use expertise earned from dedicated careers in precious metals and diamonds, along with industry-leading XRF scanning tools to confirm what you have, right in front of you.

What Markings Should You Look For?

Start by checking for karat stamps, but keep an eye out for brand names or origin marks too.

Big names like Tiffany & Co. or Cartier can indicate a high-quality piece, but Gold Rush prices strictly based on the gold or platinum content, not brand.

European markings like “750” also point to 18K gold. Sterling silver is often marked “925,” while platinum may say “PT950” or “PLAT.”

Even if your piece looks dated or worn, don’t assume it has no value. Bring in any original boxes, receipts, or certificates if you still have them—they won’t change the payout, but they help confirm what you’re holding.

Most offers still come down to weight, purity, and current market pricing.

What Types of Vintage Jewelry Have Resale Value?

Age doesn’t reduce value if the piece is made from solid gold or other precious metals.

Vintage rope chains, old wedding bands, damaged rings, and even single earrings all get weighed and tested like anything else. Buyers don’t factor in style trends—just the materials.

High-karat gold pieces from the 70s and 80s tend to be heavier and often test at 18K or above. Art Deco jewelry and retro pendants may include platinum or low-carat diamonds. It doesn’t matter if it’s broken or mismatched.

If it’s made from real metal, it has real value. Sellers are often surprised to learn that a dented bracelet or scratched ring is worth far more than it looks.

When “Scrap” Jewelry Isn’t Scrap at All

Plenty of people show up with jewelry they almost tossed out. Broken clasps, missing stones, or bent settings don’t affect the payout when you sell by metal weight.

A gold ring with no stone still weighs the same. Gold Rush pays based on daily market prices, not appearance. Our staff sorts, tests, and weighs everything on-site. You get a clear breakdown and a same-day offer. No guesswork, no long waits. Even five grams of 14K gold can translate to quick cash, and it doesn’t matter if the item is pretty or not.

Get a Free Appraisal at Any Gold Rush Denver Location

If you’re not sure what your jewelry is made of, bring it in. Gold Rush buyers are available at every Colorado store to test and evaluate your items while you wait. Get the most from a trusted gold buyer!

Appraisals are free and there’s no pressure to sell.

Whether you’re clearing out old family pieces or finally going through that jewelry box, the team makes it easy to find out what you’re working with. Stop by any location or visit goldrushdenver.com to learn more.

Contact Information:

Gold Rush Denver Cash for Gold, Cash for Silver, Cash for Diamonds

2370 South Colorado Blvd
Denver, CO 80222
United States

Public Relations
(303) 282-4651
https://goldrushdenver.com/