Have Unwanted Jewelry? Three Ways to Find Out How Much It's Worth

As you rummage through drawers you rarely open these days, you may happen upon clothes that no longer fit or trinkets of sentimental value. You may also find things you haven't seen or worn for years - a high school class ring, a broken necklace chain, or another item of jewelry given by a former sweetheart. While sentimentality prompts you to hang onto certain things, the possibility that you could cash in on unworn and unwanted jewelry is also appealing. When people perceive trouble with the economy, investment in gold gains popularity, and value rises. If you have gold jewelry in your possession, you may be at least interested in what it is worth.

How do you find out? There are a few ways to determine the value of rings, necklaces, and bracelets made of precious gold and/or silver, or the value of diamonds and other gems in rings and earrings. Some of the more obvious steps to take include:

1) Have a professional appraisal made on your jewelry. Contact a local jeweler to find out if they do appraisals on gold and gems. Most shops have somebody on staff who is certified, and is either ready to consult with walk-ins or willing to work by appointment. When you see an appraiser about your belongings, it will help to offer as much information as possible about the jewelry - where you got it, when you got it, and how you've stored it over time. You may want to bring any paperwork associated with the jewelry, like certificates of authentication, if you think an appraiser will want to see them. Sometimes one can tell you right off the bat if you have actual gold or just gold-plated metal that a jeweler is likely not interested in buying.

2) If you know what you possess is actual gold, you can consult current gold prices to get an idea of its value. There are online calculators that offer estimates on the going price for gold according to weight and karats. While you may find some helpful information that way, though, you may wish to confirm with a reputable appraiser.

3) If there is a reputable gold and coin show near you, you may wish to consult with one or more certified appraisers for an idea of value. Be careful, however, of who you visit. Some jewelers will warn you not to call the fly-by-night dealers who rent a hotel room for a weekend and take walk-in appraisals. There is the risk you may be paid less the true value of the jewelry you want to sell.

If you think what gold, silver, and gem jewelry you own is worth selling, find out what it's worth first.

Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on Virginia Beach jewelers and Virginia Beach gold appraisals.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kathryn_Lively

Wedding Bands For Women And Bezel Set Engagement Rings

One of the most popular types of wedding bands for women are bezel set diamond rings. They are also very popular for men's engagement rings. Choosing such an important symbol of love and devotion takes time and deserves attention to detail.

A prominent feature of these wedding rings is the security with which the gem is set in the ring. Unlike other methods of attaching a diamond to a gold, platinum or palladium band, the bezel set virtually encases the gem to the metal.

This style is ideal for active couples, or those who do not wish to frequently remove their valuable band. Imagine playing a rousing game of volleyball and discovering later on that your precious stone is gone. The chances of ever finding it are slim to none.

This setting is a very time-honored method of attaching a gem to the ring. Basically, the gem is set deep in the mounting then a special burnishing tool is used to stretch the metal over the top edges of the gem, holding it fast in place.

Some people hold the unfounded belief that this method prevents the clarity of a diamond from radiating out and glistening with its natural beauty. In truth, most of the radiance comes from the top of the gem and the metal setting does not really inhibit the gem from sparkling with radiance.

Though this method does leave a more pronounced and obvious mark on the ring, the security it provides more than offsets the intrusion of the metal on the gem. A good jeweler is expert at making a beautiful piece, in spite of the presence of the metal.

Partial bezels are also quite popular and provide a stunning backdrop to show off the natural beauty of a diamond or other precious gem. It is important, however, to be sure that the partial is still strong enough to securely hold the gem in place during vigorous activity.

Another important benefit of the bezel set engagement ring or wedding band is that the collar around the gem helps prevent dust, dirt and oil from collecting around the stone. This can cause the sparkle to become dull and cloudy.

One might be tempted to think that this design is limited to very simple and plain rings, but this is not the case. In fact, you can buy Irish Claddagh, Christian, custom design, and many other styles that use the bezel setting.

Men who choose a wedding band with precious stones very often opt for this style because of the strength and durability inherent in the design.

Jon Arnett writes about wedding bands for women and more at http://www.WeddingRingForUs.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jon_Arnett

Tips to: Buying the Bezel Set Engagement Rings for the Proposal to Your Fiancé

There are three stages of life for a man, the day he is born, marriage and death. The day he is getting married is very important to a man, that is why the occasion must be special. When proposing to a lady, a man must show his love in the most noticeable way by offering bezel set engagement rings to a lady. This is an ornament that will soften the heart of the lady.

This kind of ornament is unique and favored by most people. This is because the stone that is in the center appears bigger than the actual size. When you give this kind of ornament to a lady, expect a yes to any of your proposals. What make this kind of ring to be a favorite are the platinum settings it has.

Buying jewelry is taken to be an expensive affair, and rightly so. This is because everybody expects these items to be expensive, but what you need to know is that you can obtain cheap diamonds in bridal shops. These stores have discounted diamonds, and this doesn't mean you will buy a cheap item.

Before walking to these shops, you must have a good plan and a budget. You should also know the kind of ornament that is preferred by your fiancé. You should be sure that the sight of engagement ring settings only has the effect of impressing your partner, and this needs good amount of time to obtain. Plan ahead and glean information from your fiancés family about what jewelry he/she likes.

The best place to purchase bridesmaid jewelry sets is online. When you visit online shops, it is easy to do window shopping and visit a much larger assortment in a shorter amount of time and choose the best sets. This is for the reason that there are hundreds of shops that stock these items. Because there are many dealers, you will find it easy to have a good bargain. Also with the paypal payment method it is easy and it’s safe to purchase online with a variety of payment options to offer.

Family and friends can also help you with information regarding where to quality bezel set engagement rings. This is because most people are getting engaged, and it can be very easy to get recommendations from them. Put an everlasting smile on the face of your loved one by offering these rings. by Anna Plank

About the Author

For more information go to thejewelryday.com and see a unique selection of Cheap Diamonds.