Estate jewelry — whether inherited, purchased at auction, or accumulated over a lifetime — can be one of the more straightforward things to sell if you know what to do and where to go. At American Gold Buyers, located at 1178 Woodruff Road, Greenville, SC 29607, we purchase estate jewelry every day from customers throughout Greenville, Simpsonville, Mauldin, Greer, Easley, and across Upstate South Carolina. This post walks you through the process step by step so you know exactly what to expect. Call us at (864) 631-1000.
What Is Estate Jewelry?
The term “estate jewelry” simply refers to previously owned jewelry — it does not necessarily imply great age or exceptional rarity. An engagement ring from 2005, a bracelet from an aunt’s jewelry box, or a pearl necklace from the 1970s are all estate jewelry. Some estate pieces are antique (over 100 years old) or vintage (generally 20 to 99 years old), which can add collector or historical value. Most estate jewelry is evaluated primarily based on its precious metal content and any gemstones it contains.
What We Buy
American Gold Buyers purchases the following types of estate jewelry:
- Gold rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings (all karats of solid gold)
- Sterling silver jewelry
- Platinum jewelry
- Diamond rings, pendants, and earrings
- Jewelry containing other precious gemstones (evaluated case by case)
- Rolex and other fine watches
We do not buy costume jewelry, gold-plated or silver-plated pieces, or jewelry made from base metals without precious content.
Step One: Gather Your Pieces
Pull together everything you are considering selling. Do not leave anything behind because you assume it has no value — let us look at it all. A broken chain, a single earring, a ring with a missing stone — these are all worth bringing in if they are solid gold, sterling silver, or platinum. Also gather any documentation you have: old appraisals, GIA grading reports for diamonds, or insurance records. Documentation is helpful but never required.
Step Two: Visit American Gold Buyers
No appointment is needed. Our shop is on Woodruff Road in Greenville, easily accessible from Simpsonville, Mauldin, Greer, and surrounding areas. Bring your items and plan to spend enough time for us to evaluate everything carefully. For a small collection, this typically takes 15 to 30 minutes. Larger estates may take longer.
Step Three: The Evaluation
Our team examines each piece to determine its metal type and purity (using testing when needed), weight, and any gemstone quality. For diamonds, we assess the 4Cs — cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. For watches, we assess model, condition, and completeness. We explain our findings as we go, so you understand the basis for any offer we make.
Step Four: The Offer
Based on our evaluation and current precious metal spot prices and secondary market conditions, we make you an offer for the items we can purchase. The offer is explained item by item. You are under no obligation to accept, and there is no time pressure. Take the offer home, think it over, or seek additional quotes if you wish.
Step Five: Payment
If you accept our offer, we pay you cash or check on the spot — no waiting, no processing period. The amount you are offered is the amount you receive. We do not charge any fees to sellers.
A Few Tips
- Do not clean the pieces before bringing them in; cleaning can actually reduce value on certain items (especially coins)
- Bring a government-issued photo ID, which is required for precious metal transactions
- If you have a lot of material, consider calling ahead at (864) 631-1000 so we can plan adequate time
Visit American Gold Buyers at 1178 Woodruff Road, Greenville, SC 29607. We are here to make the selling process easy for Upstate South Carolina residents.