Sell Gold Calculator
Find out how much your gold is worth before selling. Calculate scrap gold value, old jewelry worth, and expected buyback prices.
How Much is Your Gold Worth?
Whether you're selling old jewelry, broken chains, or inherited gold, knowing the melt valuehelps you get a fair price. Use our calculator above to estimate your gold's worth based on current market rates. Remember: dealers typically pay 70-90% of melt value.
Important: The calculator shows the full gold value. Expect buyers to offer 70-90% of this amount to cover their margins and refining costs.
Understanding Gold Buyback Pricing
| Buyer Type | Typical Offer | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Jewelry Store (Exchange) | 90-100% of gold value | When buying new jewelry |
| Gold Refiners | 85-95% of melt value | Large quantities (50g+) |
| Online Gold Buyers | 80-90% of melt value | Convenience, mail-in service |
| Local Jewelers | 75-85% of melt value | Small amounts, quick cash |
| Pawn Shops | 50-70% of melt value | Emergency cash (avoid if possible) |
| "Cash for Gold" Stores | 40-60% of melt value | Not recommended |
Steps to Sell Gold for Best Price
1. Know Your Gold's Karat
Check for stamps like 10K, 14K, 18K, 22K, or 24K. If unmarked, get it tested at a jeweler. Different karats have very different values.
2. Weigh Your Gold
Use a kitchen scale (grams) or jeweler's scale for accuracy. Remove non-gold parts like clasps, stones, or settings if possible.
3. Calculate Melt Value
Use the calculator above to find today's gold value. This is your baseline - never accept less than 70% of this amount.
4. Get Multiple Quotes
Visit at least 3 buyers. Compare offers as a percentage of melt value. Negotiate - initial offers are rarely final.
5. Consider Exchange vs Cash
Jewelry stores often offer better rates for exchange (buying new jewelry with old gold) than straight cash purchases.
Gold Scrap Value Formula
Scrap Value = Weight (g) × Gold Price per Gram × (Karat / 24)
Example: 10g of 18K gold at $85/g = 10 × $85 × (18/24) = $637.50 melt value
What Affects Gold Buyback Price?
- Purity (Karat): Higher karat = higher value per gram
- Weight: More weight = more negotiating power
- Market Price: Spot price fluctuates daily
- Condition: Doesn't matter for scrap - only weight and purity count
- Buyer Margins: Each buyer has different overhead costs
- Quantity: Larger lots get better rates
Red Flags When Selling Gold
Avoid These
- • Buyers who won't show scale readings
- • "Mail your gold" services with no reviews
- • Offers below 60% of melt value
- • Pressure to sell immediately
- • No written quote or receipt
Good Signs
- • Transparent weighing and testing
- • Clear explanation of calculation
- • Written quote valid for 24-48 hours
- • Licensed/registered business
- • Positive reviews and ratings
Pro Tip: If you have designer or antique jewelry, get it appraised separately. The craftsmanship or brand value might exceed the gold melt value.
Calculate Your Gold's Melt Value
Enter your gold weight and karat to find out its current market value.
Open Calculator