How Gold Jewelry Is Valued

If you’re thinking about selling your gold jewelry, understanding how it’s valued is essential. Whether you’re holding onto a family heirloom or a few pieces gathering dust in a drawer, knowing what determines their worth can help you make a confident and informed decision. At Pacific Jewelry & Watches, servicing Los Angeles, CA, we specialize in buying gold and pride ourselves on offering transparent evaluations based on real market value.

What Determines the Value of Gold Jewelry?

Gold isn’t just beautiful—it’s also a tangible asset that carries significant value. Here’s what goes into determining that value:

1. Gold Purity (Karat Weight)

Gold purity is measured in karats (K). The higher the karat, the more gold the piece contains. For example:

  • 24K = 99.9% pure gold
  • 18K = 75% pure gold
  • 14K = 58.5% pure gold
  • 10K = 41.7% pure gold

A professional appraiser will test your jewelry to determine its karat weight. At Pacific Jewelry & Watches, we use non-destructive methods to accurately assess gold content while preserving the integrity of your piece.

Want to know what purity your gold is? Contact Pacific Jewelry & Watches today.

2. Weight of the Gold

Once the purity is determined, the next factor is the weight. The heavier your gold jewelry, the more valuable it is—assuming it’s made from higher karat gold. We weigh your items precisely using certified scales to ensure fair and honest pricing.

3. Current Gold Market Price

The global gold market price plays a major role in determining how much your jewelry is worth. Gold is traded as a commodity, and its price fluctuates daily based on supply, demand, economic conditions, and investor behavior. When gold prices are high, you’ll get more for your items.

At Pacific Jewelry & Watches, we closely monitor the gold market to make sure you get a competitive offer based on the most up-to-date spot price.

4. Condition and Craftsmanship

While most buyers are interested in the raw gold value, some jewelry pieces also carry added value for their design, condition, brand, or historical significance. Designer jewelry, antique items, or pieces with precious stones may be worth more than just their gold content. We always take this into account during evaluations.

Why Sell to Pacific Jewelry & Watches in Los Angeles?

Located in the heart of Los Angeles, CAPacific Jewelry & Watches is known for honest service and top-dollar payouts. Whether you’re selling a single gold chain or an entire estate collection, our gold-buying experts will walk you through the process, answer your questions, and ensure you feel confident about your decision.

  • Competitive offers based on real-time gold prices
  • Accurate testing for gold purity and weight
  • Immediate payments—no waiting
  • Private, secure evaluations in-store

Ready to Find Out What Your Gold Jewelry Is Worth?

Gold prices are still historically strong, making now an excellent time to sell. Visit Pacific Jewelry & Watches in Los Angeles, CA, for a free, no-obligation appraisal. Our friendly team is here to help you get the most value from your gold.

Contact us today or stop by our store to turn your unused gold into cash you can use now.

Pacific Jewelry & Watches – Los Angeles’ trusted gold buyer.

Image courtesy of Canva

Jayson Lansford

left us a 5 star review

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Jayson Lansford
Rated 5.0
September 12, 2025

I had to sell some coins from my grandfather‘s collection that I inherited and coming here was the best decision! It was an honest and fair process and grateful I found it after so many places!

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Robert Smith
Rated 5.0
September 6, 2025

Had a great experience the gentleman was Highly knowledgeable and polite. I would highly recommended

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Sarah Hoffmann
Rated 5.0
September 6, 2025

I sold some of my grandmas jewelry to Paul and it was a super smooth process and I felt very well consulted. Will sell more to him.

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Liz Kemper
Rated 5.0
August 29, 2025

Paul, the owner of Pacific Jewelry & Watches, is a wonderful appraiser. He is knowledgeable, professional, and customer-oriented. His fee is very reasonable, especially compared with other appraisers on the Westside. I have used Paul to appraise jewelry and sterling flatware, and will continue to use his services in the future. I highly recommend Paul.

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Jessica Walton
Rated 5.0
August 28, 2025

Paul is courteous, kind and very good at his job. He will tell you how much your jewelry is worth with the highest accuracy, and a bonus - he's a super nice person!

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Mark Larsen
Rated 5.0
August 14, 2025

Had a great experience at Pacific Jewelry selling several items. Paul is a friendly, easy going guy who is patient and very knowledgeable. Total satisfaction with the prices he gave, in fact, he gave me more than I expected. Thank you Paul!

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Vader Mau5
Rated 5.0
August 9, 2025

I saw Paul for my engagement ring appraisal. I really appreciated him waiting for me since I got a flat tire right before my appointment. He took his time explaining the cost of the ring and what it takes to make a ring like mine and he seemed genuinely excited about explaining the process. He was fairly quick in his responses to me when I scheduled the appointment and was quick to send me the documents for my insurance. I really appreciate this experience because most professionals in jewelry talk down to people that don’t know anything about jewelry. Will definitely recommend him to my friends and will come back when I acquire more jewelry.

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Vader A.
Rated 5.0
August 8, 2025

I saw Paul for my engagement ring appraisal. I really appreciated him waiting for me since I got a flat tire right before my appointment. He took his time...

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Rosa M. Navarro
Rated 5.0
August 7, 2025

I was treated with complete courtesy and attention. All of my questions were answered to my complete satisfaction, and I felt that I was given the best possible price for the items I brought in. I would not hesitate to return in the future if I have other items to sell. I would recommend Pacific Jewelers to anyone interested in an honest appraisal and/or sale of personal valuables.

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Mark Shweitzer
Rated 5.0
July 31, 2025

Paul was extremely helpful, knowledgeable, and easy to work with! Very convenient place to get a watch appraisal!

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Othelo M.
Rated 5.0
July 29, 2025

Provided a straightforward and smooth service. Friendly and professional. Responsive to DM/text. Highly recommended and convenient.

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L G.
Rated 5.0
July 29, 2025

I found Paul through a website for the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers and saw his yelp reviews - which convinced me to use his services. He was...

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Steph Prader
Rated 5.0
July 24, 2025

Paul is a smart and chill dude! I appreciated his relaxed, kind manner while appraising my jewelry. He gave me a great price along with good conversation. I highly recommend him!

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Lawrence G.
Rated 5.0
July 4, 2025

Having limited knowledge of watches and jewelry and after doing some online research about getting a value appraisal from a professional, I found Paul who...

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Alex Rush
Rated 5.0
July 3, 2025

Very kind a professional service, no messing around and very much knew his stuff. Got a fantastic and fair price for a piece I no longer wanted. Would definitely recommend.

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Mona Moafi
Rated 5.0
July 2, 2025

Best buyer for silver and Gold

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David Navasardian
Rated 5.0
July 2, 2025

I truly thank him to provide me the best deal for Silver

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David Novassarteian
Rated 5.0
July 2, 2025

Very nice 😊 person respectful easy to deal & best price

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Russell Ku
Rated 5.0
June 27, 2025

Paul is friendly and gave us a thorough appraisal report with a quick turnaround.

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Chris Carletti
Rated 5.0
June 19, 2025

After speaking with IGI, and GIA, Paul at Pacific Jewelry & Watches was much more knowledgeable and helpful with my questions and concerns. Thank you so much!!! 5 stars!!! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐