How do I sell this ring?

April 12, 2018 12:44 PM

I was given this vintage diamond cocktail ring that would like to sell, and no idea how to go about it. If it matters, I these seem to be mine cut diamonds and the dark bits are blue enamel. I doubt it will bring much but I don't wear it and don't care to keep it so I'm just looking to get a reasonable price.
posted by HotToddy to Shopping (7 answers total)

You can take it to a couple pawn shops who will give you a price for an outright cash sale. With the understanding of its likely value, you can try to sell it on craigslist or fb marketplace, or just sell to a pawn shop. We went to 2 pawn shops when my friend sold her engagement ring, got a fraction, maybe 1/9th of the price paid.
posted by theora55 at 1:18 PM on April 12, 2018 [1 favorite]

Try looking for a place that sells "estate jewelry" - they will often pay (a bit) better than pawn shops, as their clientele are looking for that vintage appeal.
posted by dbmcd at 2:16 PM on April 12, 2018 [3 favorites]

I would use Etsy. They have a lot of vintage/antique rings (for example, this one) and I think you'd get a higher price than elsewhere.
posted by pinochiette at 3:14 PM on April 12, 2018

P.S. That style of ring is often called a dinner ring (here's another example).
posted by pinochiette at 3:15 PM on April 12, 2018

Try MeMailing MeFite peagood—she used to be in the jewelry business IIRC and is knowledgeable.
posted by hurdy gurdy girl at 3:47 PM on April 12, 2018

EBTH (Everything But the House) will run an auction for you and deal with photography, mailing, etc. They list/sell a lot of vintage dinner rings.
posted by carmicha at 4:40 PM on April 12, 2018 [1 favorite]

I suggest you ask a jewelry appraiser for an opinion. You will pay a fee, but the information will be honest. The jeweler can recommend reputable ways for you to sell it, or the stones separated from the ring.

Your ring, though very pretty, might not be the best (or most lucrative) frame for the diamonds, and they might be more valuable when evaluated unset for carat and color. Please don't choose a pawn shop, which are notorious for taking advantage of consignors who don't really know the value of what they have. Sometimes it really is strategic to pay a small fee for truly expert advice. And if the appraiser is Gemology Institute of America (GIA) certified (they should be to be reputable) you have a guarantee that their appraisal is correct.
posted by citygirl at 5:40 PM on April 12, 2018 [2 favorites]