Question 1

How much do engagement rings cost second-hand?

Accepted Answer

Pre-owned engagement rings typically sell for 30–60% of their original retail price. A solitaire that cost £2,000 new will usually change hands for £700–£1,200 depending on the stone's certificate, condition and demand. Certified diamonds with GIA or IGI paperwork hold their value far better than uncertified stones.

Question 2

How do I find out someone's ring size without asking?

Accepted Answer

Borrow a ring they already wear on the same finger and measure its inside diameter, or take it to a jeweller for a free sizing. Most jewellers will resize a ring one or two sizes for a modest fee, and many sellers on JewelleryTrader state whether resizing is possible in the advert.

Question 3

What does 18ct or 750 mean on a ring?

Accepted Answer

Both mean the metal is 75% pure gold — 18 carat. UK hallmarks show fineness in parts per thousand: 375 is 9ct, 585 is 14ct, 750 is 18ct and 916 is 22ct. Platinum is usually marked 950 and sterling silver 925.

Question 4

How do I check a hallmark is genuine?

Accepted Answer

A genuine UK hallmark is struck (or laser-marked) by one of the four UK Assay Offices — London, Birmingham, Sheffield or Edinburgh — and shows the metal, its fineness, the assay office mark and usually a date letter and sponsor's mark. Compare the marks on the item with the reference tables published by the Assay Offices, and ask the seller for a clear close-up photo. A hallmark that is blurred, misspelt or in the wrong place is a red flag.

Question 5

How do I avoid scams when buying rings online?

Accepted Answer

View the item in person before any money changes hands — or use a reputable escrow for high-value pieces — keep all messages inside JewelleryTrader so there is a record, and never pay by bank transfer, gift card or crypto to someone you have not verified. For precious metal, always check the hallmark against the Assay Office records, and for certified stones verify the certificate number directly with GIA or IGI. Every JewelleryTrader seller completes a photo-ID and live selfie check, verified accounts carry a badge, and you can report an advert from the listing page.

Question 6

How do I know what my jewellery is worth before selling?

Accepted Answer

Get an independent valuation first — many high-street jewellers value items for a small fee, and the Institute of Registered Valuers keeps a directory of accredited valuers. Then compare live asking prices for similar pieces on JewelleryTrader so your price reflects what buyers are actually paying. Remember that insurance (replacement) valuations are usually two to three times what a piece will sell for second-hand.

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