In this guide (4)
Quick answer. A plain wedding band is valued mainly on its carat and gold weight, while an antique, signed or diamond-set ring is valued for its stones, craftsmanship and maker above scrap gold.
- Check inside the band for 375 (9KT), 585 (14KT), 750 (18KT) or 916 (22KT) alongside the assay office symbol.
- Plain worn bands sell close to their tested gold weight; gemstones and diamonds add separate value.
- Signed rings (Cartier, Tiffany & Co., Boodles, Boucheron) and Georgian or Victorian rings are priced as collectable jewellery.
- Cut, bent or engraved rings are all bought; never try to prise out stones before a valuation.
The four things that decide a gold ring's value
- 1. Gold carat (purity). An 18KT (750) gold ring holds twice as much pure gold gram for gram as a 9KT (375) ring, and a 22KT (916) band holds more still. Check our gold hallmarks guide if the stamps are tiny.
- 2. Weight. Heavier signet rings, chunky Victorian bands and solid curb-link rings carry a higher metal floor than fine hollow or thin shanks.
- 3. Diamonds and coloured gemstones. Solitaires, trilogy rings, eternity bands and sapphire, ruby or emerald clusters are graded in the setting on carat weight, cut, colour and clarity.
- 4. Period, craftsmanship and maker. A Victorian gypsy ring, an Edwardian sapphire cluster, an Art Deco plaque ring or a signed Cartier or Tiffany piece is valued as an antique or designer jewel.
Choosing the right valuation route for your ring
| Type of gold ring | Main driver of value | Where to go next |
|---|---|---|
| Plain or broken wedding band | Carat and tested gold weight | Sell gold rings |
| Diamond or engagement ring | Stone size, colour, clarity, cut and certificate | Sell a diamond ring |
| Signet or intaglio ring | Gold weight, stone carving and crest history | Sell signet rings |
| Signed designer ring | Maker's signature, serial number, box and papers | Sell designer jewellery |
| Antique Victorian or Georgian ring | Period setting, rarity and condition | Sell antique jewellery |
Have one to sell?
Sell to a specialist
Free valuation from your photographs. Paid the same day after inspection.
- Free insured FedEx collection
- Insured to £10,000
- No obligation
How to get a free specialist figure
Photograph the ring from the top and the side in daylight, take a close-up of the hallmarks or signature inside the band, and include any box or laboratory report. Send the photographs through the form on this page and a specialist replies within one working day with a free valuation and no obligation.