When we scrap out jewelry we dismantle it, test the metals for purity, and then weigh both the metals and stones. If you want the cash instead, Barbara Oliver Jewelry is licensed in Erie County to buy used jewelry. You’ll also be given a credit at fair market value for the metals that will be used in the new project. If the stones have sentimental value we can set them aside (or give them back, if you’re not quite ready to proceed) to be repurposed into another piece. Sometimes, however, old jewelry is just old jewelry, and has no value aside from the metals and stones it contains. Because we’re a bricks and mortar location with an excellent reputation, we are often able to sell jewelry at a better price than someone selling privately – we can go over options with you if you are interested. We also have a very active on-line store where we can list pieces there’s bound to be someone, somewhere in the world, that appreciates the beautiful piece that no longer brings you joy. We have a display case in our shop dedicated to displaying antique and high end jewelry that would be of interest to other buyers, should you ask us to sell it on your behalf. We can bring these pieces to your attention, a quality finished piece may be more valuable intact than as scrap. Even well-crafted costume jewelry is coveted among many collectors. Designer or antique pieces displaying excellent craftsmanship and good quality stones are also never out of fashion. Often gently worn pieces, such as an engagement ring, can be professionally refurbished and resold. When we assess a jewelry collection we’ll help sort out any pieces that may have intrinsic value as a finished piece. People often come in asking about what they should expect to receive for their gold, silver, platinum and gemstones if they want to sell it, and we’re always happy to give you guidance based on current market pricing.

Or perhaps you inherited a Glad ziplock storage bag of old jewelry that you don’t think you’ll ever wear, even though you appreciate its sentimental value. Over time, jewelry can become dated or is no longer loved like it once was.

Precious gems and metals