What a transparent metal offer should show
A strong explanation separates gross weight from eligible precious-metal weight, then explains fineness. For gold, common UK marks include 375 for 9ct, 585 for 14ct, 750 for 18ct, 916 for 22ct and 999 for fine gold. Non-gold stones, springs, steel, filler and plated material should not be counted as solid gold.
The offer should also say whether the item has resale value as jewellery. A designer ring, old-cut diamond ring, charm bracelet or antique locket may be worth more than melt.
Illustrative calculation only
If a 10g 9ct item has no non-gold deductions, the pure-gold equivalent is 10 x 0.375 = 3.75g. If the reference pure-gold price were GBP 60/g, the theoretical metal content would be GBP 225 before any buyer margin, testing, refining, resale or risk adjustments. That number is educational, not a Fair Vintage offer.
The gold tool on this site lets visitors enter their own reference price. It deliberately avoids fictional live pricing.
Price-lock wording needs care
A true price lock is a contractual promise and depends on timing, inspection, metal testing and terms. In seller guidance, the safer promise is that a written offer should explain the market reference used and the assumptions behind the figure.
Silver, platinum and mixed lots
Silver and platinum need their own treatment. Silver plate is not sterling silver. Platinum is dense and often appears with diamonds, where stone value, condition and design affect the route. Mixed lots should be separated by material where possible, then checked for hallmarks and testing uncertainty.
Practical checklist
Send these details for a clearer metal view
- A clear weight if you have one, but do not rely on kitchen scales.
- Hallmark photos and any assay marks.
- Photos of stones, springs, clasps, steel inserts and damage.
- Any competing written offer you want Fair Vintage to compare.
- A note if the item is plated, gold-filled or untested.
Sources and fact-check record
Last reviewed 2026-10-10. This page is written as seller guidance, not legal advice and not a claim of endorsement by any cited organisation.
FAQ
Can Fair Vintage beat my gold offer?
No honest buyer can promise that for every object. Fair Vintage tries its best to beat genuine like-for-like offers where possible, and we explain our reasoning in writing. If auction, private sale, or a brand specialist is likely to be better, we will say so.
Does this page show a live gold price?
No. Gold prices change daily, so this page explains the method and links to references rather than inventing a live figure.
Is plated jewellery valued as gold?
No. Plated and gold-filled items are not the same as solid gold alloy, though some may have collector value.