Selling second-hand jewellery is a difficult thing to do. Navigating the emotional attachments combined with the retail price originally paid for the item is very challenging for sellers. The reality of what is considered a true re-sale valuation can come as a shock to people. As buyers of pre-loved jewellery this is one of the most challenging things for us to help sellers understand.
We have many people coming back to us after 2 years, after initially rejecting our offer. They attempt to try and sell themselves and then 2 years later come back to us finally realising our offer was the best.
The reason for this is because a generic jeweller will always offer scrap metal pricing for the item. This is the value of the item broken down into gold, diamonds and platinum. They do not take into account the design or craftmanship of the piece. The best a generic jeweller can do is to encourage the seller to sell themselves. This leaves a seller with the option of selling privately using avenues such as Gum Tree or Ebay. When a seller is trying to sell a one-off piece, this creates a lot of problems for buyers. Trust being the primary concern and this goes both ways. In addition we also find, that if a seller does manage to sell successfully it is always at a price just below what we offer. We know this from sales data on places such as Gum Tree or Ebay. When we make an offer we often try to provide sellers this information. Irrespective of this, sellers emotional connection and memory of the original re purchase price, almost always disappoints sellers.
The honest truth is 'Second hand resale valuation' is will always be significantly lower than a retail appraisal. Particularly an item sold by Tiffany & Co. where so much value is tied up in the brand. In addition demand is very intangible. Many factors affect the sale price of pre-loved jewellery. Market dynamics, trends, the economy all factor in. A price we may have received for an item 5 years ago is not the same price we may be able to receive today. It is a very moving market with no set pricing, in those times we need to look more at the base value of the item.
We hope by understanding these factors this will help people parting with their cherished pieces and know we are providing the best 'second hand re sale valuation' possible.
Here are a few things to consider when selling.
1. Emotional Attachments and Market Realities:
Jewellery often carries profound sentimental value, making it challenging to let go. In the market, emotional value doesn't always translate directly to monetary worth as simply put, the buyer is looking at the raw materials that the item is made of, ie the diamonds/gold/platinum. We as Tiffany re sellers look at the overall piece ie the extrinsic value and hold that design important, but we still also do need to look at the intrinsic value of the piece.
2. Condition and Wear:
Second-hand jewellery will always show signs of wear. We spend time, money and expertise to bring the item back to new. Scratches, dents, and worn-out settings are common, even with proper care.
3. Trends and Style Evolution:
Fashion is cyclical, and jewellery is no exception. A piece that was highly coveted in the past may not align with current trends, affecting its market demand and price. Buyers often seek pieces that reflect contemporary aesthetics, which can influence the valuation of second-hand jewelry.
4. Market Demand, Supply, and Economic Factors:
The demand for second-hand jewellery is always a moving goal post and influenced by economic conditions, cultural trends, and consumer preferences. High demand can drive prices up, while a saturated market can lead to lower valuations. Economic fluctuations also play a significant role in determining market value.
5. Materials, Gemstones, and Market Trends:
The type and quality of materials used in jewelry significantly impact its value. Precious metals and gemstones are subject to market fluctuations, which can influence the price of second-hand pieces. Additionally, shifts in consumer preferences for specific materials can impact the overall market demand.
6. Authentication, Certification, and Assurance:
Buyers seek assurance of a jewellery piece's authenticity and quality. Certificates of authenticity, provenance, and gemological reports significantly influence the value of second-hand jewelry. Establishing credibility and providing documentation can positively impact the final sale price.
7. Brand Influence and Pricing Structures:
Established jewellery brands always come with a premium attached to their name. In our opinion this is the most significant reason that a Tiffany piece HAS pre-loved demand, but it doesn't translate to the amount being more. What this means is that if you had an unbranded jewellery item and tried to sell it, it's most likely it will sell for scrap metal. The fact Tiffany Jewellery has a demand, means the piece can sell as a whole, however the mark ups coming with brand new retail will always take a hit.
In the second-hand market, this brand premium will not command the same value as buying new.
Navigating Value and Emotional Attachment
Selling second-hand jewelry requires a delicate balance between emotional attachment and market realities. While the prices will never mirror those seen in retail settings, understanding the factors influencing valuation is essential. Opting to sell through a reputable jewellery shop offers expertise, transparency, and a secure environment, ensuring a fair deal for both parties involved. In this exchange, jewellery continues its journey, finding new homes and new stories to tell, all while contributing to a more sustainable and interconnected world.
Catherine Trenton Jewellery
"We are an established boutique organisation specialising in pre-loved diamond designer jewellery from Tiffany & Co. and other luxury brands.
As experts in this niche trade we work hard to provide a safe and simple environment for buying and selling pre-loved fine diamond jewellery online.
We have also have our own line of 'CTJ' 18ct and Diamond fine jewellery as well.
Whether you are buying or selling a piece of fine diamond designer jewellery, we aim to provide you with the best outcome possible."