Can you sell gold plated jewellery?

Gold plated jewellery is a popular and affordable option for many people who love the look of gold but don’t want to spend a fortune on it. But can you sell gold plated jewellery? And if so, how much is it worth and where can you sell it?

In short, yes, you can sell gold plated jewellery, however it's important to note that it may not fetch a significant amount of money. This is because gold plated jewellery is generally not as valuable as items made from real gold. That said, if you have lots of adornments to sell and they’re in good condition, it is worth the time and effort to try and sell your gold plated jewellery for the best price possible.

How to sell gold plated jewellery

There are different places where you can sell your gold plated jewellery, such as:

Online market platforms

You can use websites like eBay, Etsy or Facebook Marketplace to sell your gold plated jewellery to buyers around the world. You can set your own price and description for your items, but you also have to pay fees and shipping costs.

Online gold buying sites

These sites typically offer competitive prices and make it easy to sell your jewellery. It’s important to note that the prices offered by gold-buying businesses can vary, so it’s worth using a gold buyers comparison site to find the best deal.

Jewellery stores

You can visit local jewellers who buy used or unwanted jewellery. They may offer you cash or credit for your items, but they may also charge commissions or fees.

Pawn shops

Pawn shops may give you a loan based on the value of your items, but they usually also charge interest rates and fees. If you fail to repay the loan within a certain period, they may keep your items.

Before you sell your gold plated jewellery, you should do some research and compare all the different options open to you. It is also advisable to check the reputation and reviews of the buyers before you deal with them and ask for receipts and certificates for your transactions wherever possible.

What is gold plated jewellery?

Gold plated jewellery has a thin layer of gold coated over another metal, such as silver, brass, copper or stainless steel. Gold plating gives the jewellery a gold-like appearance and colour, but it doesn’t have the same value or durability as solid gold jewellery and tends to tarnish or wear away over time.

Does gold plated jewellery have a hallmark?

It is unusual for gold plated jewellery to have a hallmark as these are normally only found on real gold jewellery starting at 9ct. However, some gold plated jewellery may have other marks that indicate the thickness of the gold layer, the manufacturer’s name or the type of metal composition, such as:

• GP (gold plated)
• GEP (gold electroplated)
• RGP (rolled gold plate)

Is gold plated jewellery worth anything?

The value of gold plated jewellery depends on several factors, such as:

1. The weight and quality of the base metal
2. The type and thickness of the gold layer
3. The design and craftsmanship of the jewellery
4. The condition and appearance of the jewellery
5. The demand and supply of the market

Generally speaking, gold plated jewellery is not worth a great deal as it contains very little gold. The gold layer can wear off over time, exposing the base metal underneath. The base metal may also corrode or tarnish, affecting the look and durability of the jewellery.

However, some gold plated jewellery may have some value if it is made of high quality base metal, such as silver or stainless steel. It may also be worth more if it has a unique or attractive design, such as vintage or designer pieces.

How to clean gold plated jewellery

To clean gold plated jewellery, you should follow these steps:

1. Use a soft cloth or a cotton swab to gently wipe off any dirt or dust from your jewellery. Avoid using abrasive materials or chemicals that could damage the gold layer.
2. If your jewellery is tarnished or discoloured, you can use a mild soap and warm water to wash it. Rinse it well and dry it thoroughly with a soft cloth. You can also use a jewellery polishing cloth to restore its shine.
3. If your items have stones or crystals, you can use a soft brush or a toothpick to remove any dirt or debris from the settings. Be careful not to scratch or loosen the stones.
4. Store your jewellery in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight, heat and moisture. You can also use an anti-tarnish pouch or a ziplock bag to prevent oxidation and corrosion.

You can read more about how to clean your jewellery in our article How to clean your gold jewellery at home.

Thinking about selling your gold plated jewellery?

While gold plated jewellery is not considered as valuable as real gold, you can still make some money if you take the time to find the best deal available. If you would like to sell your gold plated jewellery and are unsure where or how to start, why not visit the Gold Selling Process of our website for more information?