How to Consign Jewelry and Watches

Jewelry and watches are small, valuable and easy to misjudge, so consigning them takes more care than consigning a sweater or a side table. This guide is for anyone selling inherited pieces or their own collection who wants to protect the items and get a fair result.

Know what you have first

Before you take a piece anywhere, learn as much as you can about it. Look for markings with a loupe or magnifying glass:

• Metal marks such as karat stamps (10K, 14K, 18K), fineness numbers (such as 585 or 750), or sterling marks.
• Maker's marks or signatures from a jeweler or design house.
• Watch details such as the brand on the dial, model and serial numbers on the case, and the movement type if visible.

Keep in mind that markings can be worn, missing or faked, and plated items may carry stamps too. Marks are a starting point, not proof.

Gather paperwork and accessories

Original boxes, receipts, certificates, grading reports for diamonds or gemstones, warranty cards, service records and extra watch links can all make a piece easier to sell and support its value. Put everything for each item together in a labeled envelope.

Get an independent appraisal or evaluation

For anything you believe is valuable, have it evaluated by a qualified independent appraiser who does not plan to buy or sell it. Ask what kind of value they are providing. An insurance replacement value is usually higher than what you could expect to receive on resale, so ask for a fair market or resale-oriented opinion if your goal is selling.

For watches, a specialist dealer or watchmaker can tell you whether the watch runs properly, whether parts are original, and whether servicing is recommended before sale. Ask before you have any work done, since servicing costs may not be recovered in the sale price.

Do not clean or repair aggressively

A gentle wipe with a soft cloth is fine. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners for fragile or treated stones, and polishing antique pieces, which can remove detail and patina. Never open a watch case yourself. Let the consignor or a professional decide what, if anything, should be done.

Choose the right place to consign

A general consignment shop may not have the expertise or the buyers for fine jewelry and better watches. Consider:

• Jewelers who offer consignment.
• Shops that specialize in estate jewelry or pre-owned watches.
• Auction companies that hold jewelry or watch sales.

Ask how they verify authenticity, how they market items, and whether they have sold pieces like yours. You can find auction, estate sale and antique businesses near you to compare options.

Document everything at drop-off

Before handing over anything, photograph each piece clearly, front and back, including markings and serial numbers. Make sure the consignment receipt describes each item specifically: metal, stones, approximate size or weight, brand, model and serial number. A vague line such as "gold ring" does not protect you.

Read the contract carefully

• Confirm the commission or fee structure and any charges for photography, cleaning or insurance.
• Ask whether the business insures consigned items against theft and loss while in their care, and get it in writing.
• Agree on a price or minimum (reserve) and how it can change.
• Know the contract length and how and when you will be paid.
• Understand how to get your items back if they do not sell.

Consider whether to sell some pieces for metal or stone value

Some jewelry is worth more as a finished piece because of the maker, design or age. Other pieces, especially broken or plain gold, may only bring their scrap metal value. Ask a knowledgeable professional which applies before you decide. Signed, antique or designer pieces deserve a careful look before anyone treats them as scrap.

Quick checklist

• Inspect markings and note what you find.
• Gather boxes, papers and service records.
• Get an independent opinion of value for important pieces.
• Skip harsh cleaning and never open a watch yourself.
• Choose a seller with jewelry or watch expertise.
• Photograph and get an itemized, detailed receipt.
• Confirm insurance coverage while items are consigned.