Before contacting a potential buyer, it's essential you first understand the pitfalls in jewellery and gemstone trading. By selling a valuable item, you do run the risk of being shortchanged. This often happens with untrustworthy or uncertified buyers, who will devalue your item and offer the lowest price. You should also avoid selling to individuals who contact you, unless you are sure they can be trusted.

You will get the best price if you properly understand the value of the item you're selling. If a diamond, it's important you understand grading standards such as the 4Cs, and if possible, further details such as fluorescence, polish and symmetry. Of course, holding an official grading report would be ideal. We also offer a range of guides around diamonds and coloured gemstones to help you better ascertain your item's quality.

After you feel confident in your knowledge of the industry, and have a good enough understanding of your item's quality, you'll then get it appraised by a professional. This will ensure you're on the right track, and give you final confirmation on quality. An appraisal will help ascertain the price at which you would like to sell your item.

If you suspect your gem can be sold at a high price, we recommend you get it appraised by a professional company or association, which often comes with a service fee. The benefit is that you will receive an impartial value report, which will then be put into writing.

Alternatively, you can have your jewellery or gem appraised at a local jewellers, which is sometimes free of charge. We recommend you visit multiple jewellery shops to get a range of opinions, and do so for lower value items. Instincts matter, so be wary of jewellers who wish to immediately purchase your item, and do not be pressured into selling if you feel something isn't quite right.

Another helpful method would be to check the prices of similar looking jewellery or gems online, but best combine this with an official form of appraisal.

Only start searching for a buyer when you're completely sure of your item's price. Think about what your ideal price would be, and decide on the lowest possible offer you'd accept should there be any negotiations.

Local Jewellers

You can approach your local jeweller to see whether they would be willing to purchase your item. It's always best to select a jeweller who is well-respected, and whom you can trust. If you are selling vintage jewellery, or an old-cut diamond, we recommend you approach a jeweller specialised in antique jewellery. If you decide to approach multiple jewellers before making a sale, it's always a good idea to request a price estimation in writing.

Diamond Specialists

For loose stones, another option would be to contact a diamond and gemstone seller, as they are certified gems specialists. They'll be able to give your item a price estimate, and many will provide this in writing. Please note that reputable diamond specialists can be difficult to find, and appraisals do vary, so best do your research beforehand.

We recommend specialists such as TOVA Diamonds, who accept a range of diamonds and coloured gemstones, provided your item has independent certification (GIA, IGI, HRD, EGL etc.) You can visit their website at www.tovadiamonds.com.

Selling Online

You can also sell your item independently online, via retail websites such as Etsy, or auction sites like eBay. Only do this when you are comfortable with your item's price, and check if the website you're using takes a commission on the sale.

Remember that by selling online, you also take the responsibility to send the item to any potential buyer securely. We recommend you look into secure shipping services if your item is very valuable. You'll also need to check any import fees and duties depending on the location you're sending to.

Furthermore, it's very important you receive payment confirmation before sending your item. Never accept deals that are cash in hand, and avoid direct online payments that aren't made via the website.