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5 Best Ways to Sell Jewelry

Earrings, necklace and pendant on a display case

If you have jewelry items that you no longer want, you may be wondering about the best ways to sell jewelry. Whether you’re looking to sell a jewelry collection or just an item or two, this guide explores the various ways to sell jewelry for cash.

1. Head to your local coin shop or jewelry store

Generally the easiest way to sell jewelry for a fair price is to sell it to a local business that buys jewelry. Jewelry stores and coin shops are generally the best place to start — although keep in mind that not all jewelers buy jewelry from the public. 

Many coin shops will purchase jewelry, and many independent jewelry stores do as well. Take a look at reviews in your area to find a well-rated business, then check out their website or give them a call to confirm if they are a good place to sell jewelry. 

Keep in mind that we generally recommend avoiding pawn shops and “we buy gold” type businesses, as the payouts are often disappointing. 

If you live in the Seattle area, head to Bellevue Rare Coins for an easy selling experience and fair prices. We’ve been in business since 1979 and have convenient locations in Tacoma, Bellevue, Issaquah and Lynnwood. 

2. Consider a private sale

Private sales are generally transactions made directly with another individual. This could be someone you know, or via a marketplace service or app.

This approach has some risks, to be sure. The possibility of scams or even robberies is out there, so exercise caution and always meet in a secure public place. It may also be tricky to find someone who wants exactly what you’re selling.

On the upside, this could potentially result in getting a good payout for your jewelry. 

3. Consider an online auction

Online auction platforms offer a way to sell just about anything, and reach a wide audience around the country or even internationally. To find success in this route, it’s helpful to already have an established profile on these sites, ideally with positive reviews. This will help inspire confidence in buyers and could improve the sale amount. 

When considering auctioning jewelry items, make sure to account for the impact of shipping and fees — both of which are generally paid by the seller (you). This could easily take 10-20% of the sale price, so be aware of that ahead of time. 

4. Consider a local auction house

For certain items — namely very valuable or rare jewelry — connecting with a local auction house may be worthwhile. These businesses take items from the public and auction them off, often via combined in-person plus online auctions.

The benefit of this approach is that it’s very hands-off. You drop off your items and (assuming the auction house accepts them — they won’t take everything), then the auction company handles the rest. 

5. Consider a trade at a local jewelry store

Some (but not all) jewelry stores accept trade-ins, where you can essentially trade items in for store credit. Some businesses will do this even if they don’t necessarily buy jewelry for cash. 

If you’re looking for a new piece or want to mix things up, this can be a way to save some money and bypass the hassle of selling jewelry. 

Keep expectations in check

One very important thing to keep in mind with all the ways to sell jewelry is that you will likely receive far less than the original retail value of the item when you go to sell it. This is especially true of certain items like engagement rings and diamond jewelry. 

If you know this going into it, you’ll be more prepared for the offers you receive. With that said, it’s still a good idea to get a second opinion if you’re not happy with the original offer — just don’t expect to get back what you paid for originally! 

Sell Jewelry in Seattle with Bellevue Rare Coins

Looking to sell jewelry in Tacoma, Bellevue, or the greater Seattle area? Bellevue Rare Coins is your one-stop shop and offers fair payouts and a stress-free selling experience. 

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  • Bellevue

    Bellevue

    321 Bellevue Way NE
    Bellevue, WA 98004
    Hours:
    Mon–Fri 10 am – 6 pm
    Sat 10 am – 3 pm
    Sunday Closed
    Phone: 425-454-1283
  • Lynnwood

    Lynnwood

    18411 Alderwood Mall Parkway Suite F
    Lynnwood, WA 98037
    Hours:
    Mon–Fri 10 am – 6 pm
    Sat 10 am – 3 pm
    Sunday Closed
    Phone: 425-672-2646
  • Issaquah

    Issaquah

    1175 NW Gilman Blvd Suite B16
    Issaquah, WA 98027
    Hours: Mon-Fri 10 am - 6 pm
    Saturday & Sunday Closed
    Phone: 425-392-0450
  • Tacoma

    Tacoma

    2302 Pacific Ave
    Tacoma, WA 98402
    Hours:
    Mon–Fri 10 am – 6 pm
    Sat 10 am – 3 pm
    Sunday Closed
    Phone: 253-328-4014