Selling your diamond jewelry can be frustrating if you aren’t experienced in gemstone sales. Many people rush into an agreement without realizing there are better options available. The best way to make the selling process a success is to be patient. A large amount of offers you receive may be well under what your diamond is worth. In order to get the best price, there are several steps you can take.

Prioritize Your Concerns and Needs

Before you begin the hunt for a potential buyer, you should determine what your priorities are. Diamond jewelry is always in demand, but the success of your mission depends on how vital certain aspects of a sale are to you. The most important factor you should consider is how quickly you want to make a sale. If you are in a hurry and need cash fast, your options may be limited.

Another consideration to keep in mind is how much effort you want to put into making the sale. If you’re looking for the best offer, you may have to put in a lot of hours doing research or traveling from location to location. Decide ahead of time if you don’t want to settle for less than top dollar. Getting the best offer often means being diligent, and you may become overwhelmed if you don’t have a strategy in mind upfront.

Know What You Own

If you own a certified diamond, it may be easy to determine its worth. However, if you have a diamond that is older or you have no documentation on the specifics, it may be more difficult to verify its value. This is where an appraiser is helpful. An expert diamond appraiser can evaluate your jewelry and give you a better idea of what to expect when it comes to making the final sale.

Choose a professional who is a member of a respected appraisal association so you can receive a valid assessment. Many reliable appraisers work independently, which means they do not sell or buy diamond jewelry themselves. Your appraiser should reference the Rapaport price list, which is a wholesale listing that displays the highest amount you could get for your gems.

Once you are provided a value on your diamond, keep this amount in mind during your search for a buyer. Do not take less than what you know your jewelry is worth unless you are satisfied with the amount. There is a large assortment of people who have a vested interest in diamonds. You will most likely find someone willing to pay a decent amount particularly if your diamond is valuable.

Prepare Your Jewelry for a Sale

Even if your diamonds are in pristine condition, they may not sell if they are dull or dirty. Cleaning the gems prior to visiting with potential buyers is an essential step. A sparkling, lustrous stone may be more visually interesting than a muted one. The right buyer may see your shiny stone and immediately be impressed. Use special diamond cleaner to keep the stone glistening.

Store your diamond jewelry in a velvet lined container or in a jewelry box that has soft, fabric compartments. It’s a good idea to keep your diamonds separate from other gems. Avoid putting two diamond items in the same container. If you have to store several diamonds together, wrap each piece in a soft cloth. Keep jewelry in a dry place that is free from moisture.

Before you search for a buyer, decide whether you plan to sell the diamond alone or with the setting. Some more valuable settings like antique mountings may notably increase the amount of your sale. Additionally, if you are selling a diamond engagement ring, you may receive a better offer by presenting the matching wedding band. A complete set is often more appealing to buyers.

Decide Where to Sell

You will most likely receive the best offers on your jewelry from consumers like you. There are several avenues you can take to make a sale with the average person. When selling your jewelry to a person rather than a business, it’s important to verify upfront how you will be paid. Many con artists promise high dollar amounts but plan to pay with counterfeit bank checks.

The safest sale involves dealing with someone close to your social circle. Post flyers at local hangouts or on the boards at work. Finding someone with a personal interest in your jewelry will make you more money than choosing a professional buyer who resells items. You can make a decent amount of money from professionals as well, but consumers may be less likely to haggle.

You can also sell your diamonds through an online auction website. This allows you to create a fixed price on the jewelry. You won’t have to worry about getting less than you expect. By carefully and accurately listing your jewels in an auction, you will attract a multitude of people in a short amount of time. Keep in mind, however, that you will have to pay auction fees.

Sell to Professionals with Safety in Mind

You may find success by selling your diamonds to a jeweler or reputable diamond dealer. Always show the potential buyer your appraisal, and don’t settle for less than 60% of the Rapaport value. Most trustworthy companies will give you a fair amount for your diamonds. This option is ideal if you want to sell your jewelry swiftly and with no hassle.

In order to receive the best offer on your precious diamond jewelry, take your time and only accept reasonable bids. Avoid selling your jewelry to pawn shops or on consignment. Once you begin the sale process, remember that you always have the option of backing out. If you know what your diamonds are worth, you should be able to walk away from a sale completely satisfied.

Author's Bio: 

Alex Levin is a writer for DuMouchelle Diamond Exchange, diamond appraisal specialists for over 80 years.