Thinking of Selling Your Engagement Ring?
We understand that selling an engagement ring can feel overwhelming. To help make the process easier, we’ve put together a straightforward guide covering everything you need to know, from maximising value and choosing the right selling route, to avoiding common pitfalls.
Gather Documentation
Collect any certificates or paperwork that came with your ring, especially those verifying diamond or gemstone quality from reputable labs. These can enhance your ring’s value. However, do not worry if you no longer have the documents, your ring can still be appraised and sold.
Set Realistic Expectations
Engagement rings typically don’t resell for their original purchase price. Factors like depreciation, changing styles, and second-hand status all impact value. If you’ve previously received offers that you have rejected, sharing this information can help set clear expectations when moving forward with a different jeweller and can help avoid disappointment.
Valuations: Are They Necessary?
Insurance valuations are often not useful when selling a ring, as they don’t reflect resale market value and reputable jeweller should be able to assess your piece without one.
That said, if you already have an insurance valuation, sharing it can help provide context during early discussions, especially over email, as the documentation can help provide preliminary insight into the item’s attributes and quality prior to an in-person assessment.
Take Clear Photos
Most jewellers begin the buying process via email or WhatsApp. Provide multiple, high-quality photos from different angles to help them assess initial interest in the item.
Understand Your Selling Options
It is important to understand your options, there are three main routes you can take:
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Selling to a Jewellers
A quick and secure option. You’ll benefit from professional evaluation and immediate payment. -
Private Sale
Gives you more control, but can be time-consuming and requires effort to find and vet buyers. -
Auction
Potentially attracts multiple bidders, but often comes with high fees and deductions from and no guaranteed sale.
Immediate Payment vs Sale-On-Your-Behalf
There are two main payment options you might be offered, some jewellers offer immediate payment, while others sell the ring on your behalf. The former provides quick, guaranteed cash. The latter may yield a higher return but requires patience and comes with risks, so be sure to clarify terms, fees, and insurance responsibilities upfront.
Be Transparent
Disclose any damage, missing stones, or lack of documentation as well as any expectation of value you have. These factors may impact valuation and potential offers, as well as helping to avoid disappointment. There’s no need to clean or service the ring before selling, reputable jewellers will handle that after purchase.
Timing Matters
Market prices fluctuate. If you’re not ready to sell yet, consider waiting to do your research so the information you gather stays relevant as prices offered will be based on the current market and is subject to change should you wish to revisit at a later date, meaning the offered value could decrease over time.
Choose the Right Buyer
Look for jewellers with experience in pieces similar to yours. If your ring is high-value, consider reaching out to specialists in areas like Hatton Garden, where there’s a larger market for fine jewellery so that you know you’re selling to a buyer who understands its value, ensuring you get a fair price.
Trust is Key
Selling an engagement ring can be emotional. Choose a company that respects that, ensure secure payment will be made and the timeframe of payment too, read reviews, and make sure you're comfortable before committing.
Ready to Sell?
Our friendly jewellery experts are here to help. You can start the process by any of the following:
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Fill out the form on our Sell Jewellery page
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Email us at info@hattonjewels.com
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Message us on WhatsApp at 07930 997 298
We’re here to make the process smooth, secure, and respectful.
