1. Finding a Jeweler You Trust
Entrusting your precious jewelry to the right buyer is crucial for a successful and satisfactory experience. Look for a respected jeweler, with a long-standing history of fair and transparent dealings. Research the jeweler’s reputation, customer reviews, and certifications to ensure their expertise and legitimacy. At Argo & Lehne, we are proud to be one of 2 stores in Columbus with a Certified Gemologist Appraiser (CGA) and Accredited Gem Laboratory (AGL) recognized by the American Gem Society, a mark of our commitment to ethical business practices and our gemological expertise. Wherever you are, it is best to use a jeweler familiar with estates and with a CGA and AGL (AGS.org).
When you visit us, our experienced professionals will work closely with you to identify the items you have and provide you with a general idea of their fair market value. We understand that estate jewelry often carries significant sentimental value, and we treat each piece with respect and care. Our team will answer any questions you have, address your concerns, and provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions throughout the selling process.
2. Decide on Selling Channels
We encourage you to discuss with family members to see who wants which family pieces. Once the family has divvied up the jewelry they want to keep, the next step is to consider the various channels available for the disposition of the remaining estate jewelry. You can explore other avenues, such as auctions, consignment, online platforms, brokerage or selling directly to a reputable and knowledgeable jeweler.
At Argo & Lehne, we offer a range of options suited to your preferences and objectives. If you want a quick and straightforward sale, we will buy your jewelry outright. If you can wait to maximize your gain, we offer consignment. If you have unique or highly valuable jewelry, we will act as brokers to get you the highest offer. Our team will guide you through the benefits and pitfalls of each option, so you make the best choice for your jewelry.
3. Dispelling Selling Myths – What You Don’t Need To Do:
Myth 1: Getting an Official Appraisal for Each Item is Necessary
One common misconception is that obtaining an official Insurance Replacement Value (IRV) appraisal for each item intended to sell is essential. However, it’s crucial to understand that an IRV appraisal does not give you the value you will receive when selling. An IRV appraisal value is the price to replace the item if lost or stolen, it does not reflect the actual price for which you can sell the piece. Investing in multiple appraisals is unnecessary and expensive, especially if not mandated by the courts. At Argo & Lehne Jewelers, we focus on providing you with a fair market value assessment based on current market trends and the unique qualities of your estate jewelry.
Myth 2: Cleaning Your Jewelry Will Guarantee a Higher Selling Price
While it’s true that presenting clean and well-maintained jewelry is essential when selling, assuming that cleaning your jewelry guarantees a higher selling price can be misleading. While a professional cleaning can enhance the overall presentation and allow potential buyers to assess the piece accurately, improper cleaning techniques or damage to the jewelry can significantly affect its value. It’s best to leave the cleaning process to experienced jewelers like us, who understand the intricacies of various materials and gemstones. At Argo & Lehne Jewelers, we take care of cleaning and restoring your estate jewelry with precision, ensuring it maintains its value and appeal to potential buyers.
Myth 3: Jewelry Does Not Depreciate
Contrary to the belief that jewelry is immune to depreciation, the reality is that most jewelry items do experience a decline in value over time. While certain rare and exceptional pieces might retain or increase their value, the majority of jewelry, like any other commodity, can depreciate due to various factors. Changes in fashion trends, market demand, and the condition of the jewelry can all contribute to its depreciation. It’s essential for sellers to have a realistic understanding of the potential depreciation of their jewelry and work with experienced jewelers who can provide accurate assessments of its current market value.
Myth 4: Diamonds Only Increase in Value Over Time
Diamonds are often thought to be a safe investment due to their durability and beauty. While rare, high-quality diamonds may indeed increase in value over the years, it’s essential to recognize that many diamonds do not follow this pattern. Factors such as the diamond’s cut, color, clarity, and carat weight influence its value, along with market trends and consumer demand. Some diamonds may appreciate in value, while others may remain relatively stable or even experience a decline. It’s crucial for any potential seller to have realistic expectations about a diamond’s value and consult a knowledgeable jeweler to get insight on current market conditions.
Myth 5: Anything Can Be Sold
While it’s true that many jewelry items can find buyers, the notion that anything can be sold, regardless of its condition or market demand, is a myth. Certain pieces of jewelry might have sentimental value to the owner but may not hold significant market appeal. Items that are heavily damaged, outdated, or made from low-quality materials might be challenging to sell or fetch a lower price in the market. Additionally, legal restrictions might apply to the sale of certain jewelry items, especially if they contain prohibited materials or have questionable origins. At Argo & Lehne Jewelers, we provide honest evaluations of your estate jewelry’s marketability and guide you on the best course of action for selling or preserving your cherished pieces.
Selling estate and other jewelry is a significant decision, and at Argo & Lehne Jewelers, we are committed to making this process as seamless and rewarding as possible. By choosing a jeweler you can trust, you can rest assured that your precious jewelry is in capable hands. Together, we will explore the available selling channels and select the one that aligns with your goals and preferences. With our expertise and dedication to transparency, you can confidently navigate the sale of your estate jewelry and find the best new homes for these cherished pieces. Let us be your partners in this journey of selling estate and other jewelry with ease and confidence.
