How to Buy Used Jewelry

Used ring.

If you are looking to buy used jewelry to add to your collection there are several different resources and places to look to begin your search. Buying used jewelry can be an economical way to purchase items that you like at a fraction of the cost than if you were buying the jewelry brand new. Comparison shopping will give you the best value for your money.

Things You'll Need

• Internet connection
• Money
• Transportation
• Magnifying glass
• Illustrated Guide to Jewelry Appraising, 3rd Edition: Antique, Period, and Modern (Hardcover)
• Notepad and pen

Instructions

1. 

   Take out your notepad and pen and the "Illustrated Guide to Jewelry Appraising, 3rd Edition: Antique, Period, and Modern" (Hardcover). You can order this book online at amazon.com or visit your county library and borrow the book. Locate the style of jewelry you want to buy in the book and record this information so you have it handy during your search process.

2. Visit amazon.com and perform a search query for the specific jewelry you are looking for. If you can not locate the specified items click the "similar items" box and perform an advanced search query. Enter keywords such as "used jewelry," and then the exact type of the jewelry you are wishing to buy. Record your search results including style, size, availability and price on your notepad.

3. Visit eBay and search for the used jewelry you are trying to find by performing a search query. Query the minimum amount of search tags to provide a wide range of results. For example; jewelry, used, diamond. Sift thought the results to find the closest match to the jewelry that you are looking for.

4. Compare the search results from both amazon and eBay, decide which items are the best value and choice for the used jewelry that you want. Place a bid or purchase the used jewelry of your choice.

5. Check out Auction Zip to find local auctions in your area that will be selling used jewelry. Perform a search query using locations you are willing to travel to within your vicinity. Perform an advanced search query using the words "used" and "jewelry" so that your results are more accurate. Take notes as to where and when the auction will take place; record a note to yourself if you need to be reminded of what auctions will be auctioning off what specific styles of jewelry.

6. Travel to the auction and inspect the jewelry that will be going up for auction before the auction starts. Ask to personally view the jewelry that will be going on the auction block. Use your magnifying glass to inspect for karats and purity of the stones. Carefully refer to the "Illustrated Guide to Jewelry Appraising" book to determine the approximate value of the jewelry that you will be bidding on.

7. 

   Attend the auction and place your bid on the jewelry that you would like to buy. If you win with the highest bid, the jewelry is yours. Pay for the jewelry and take the jewelry home that day.

8. Find local antique shops in your area at antiqueshopsa2z.com. Visit your local antique shop and browse its selection of used jewelry; here you can typically find a large assortment of used vintage jewelry. Feel free to attempt to negotiate prices with the dealer at an antique shop.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask a partner who is also looking for jewelry to go with you to auctions; many times auctions sell their jewelry in bulk and this way you could split the jewelry as well as the cost.

• Don't be afraid to ask questions regarding the quality of the jewelry you are preparing to buy. Ask how old the jewelry is and how many owners the jewelry has had, if known, and if the piece has ever been replaced or repaired.

• When you bid on an item you are responsible for paying for the item.

• When visiting a live auction remember to take cash or check with a valid Identification; many auctions do not accept credit cards.

Resources

• Amazon Jewelry
• Illustrated Guide to Jewelry Appraising
• eBay
• Auction Zip
• Find local antique shops in your area