Cash for Gold: How to Get the Best Price for Your Gold
- News
- 23 Jul, 2026
With gold prices remaining historically high, now could be the perfect time to find out what your unwanted gold is worth. Whether it's a broken chain hidden away in a drawer, a single earring with no match or a ring you no longer wear, those forgotten items could be worth more than you think.
If you're looking for cash for gold, it's important to understand how your gold is valued so you can be confident you're receiving a fair offer. Understanding what affects the value of your gold will help you make an informed decision before you sell.
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How Is Gold Valued?
Many people assume that larger or more decorative jewellery is automatically worth more, but that's not always the case.
When valuing gold, three key factors are considered:
- Gold purity (carat)
- Weight
- The current market price of gold
- 9ct
- 14ct
- 18ct
- 22ct
Gold prices also change regularly in line with the global market, meaning the value of the same item can increase or decrease over time.
A professional gold valuation should always explain how your item has been assessed so you understand exactly how your offer has been calculated.
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Look for Hallmarks
Many gold items carry a hallmark that confirms their purity.
You'll often find hallmarks:
- Inside rings
- On necklace clasps
- On bracelet fastenings
- On earring posts
- On the reverse of pendants
The good news is that a missing hallmark doesn't automatically mean your jewellery has no value. Professional testing can still identify genuine gold.
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What Gold Items Can You Sell?
Many people are surprised by what can be worth selling.
Cash Generator can assess a wide range of gold items, including:
- Gold rings
- Gold chains
- Gold bracelets
- Gold necklaces
- Gold earrings
- Gold pendants
- Gold watches
- Gold coins
- Broken gold jewellery
- Scrap gold
- Single earrings
- Damaged jewellery
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Could Your Jewellery Be Worth More Than Its Gold?
Sometimes, yes.
Certain items may have value beyond their gold content.
For example:
- Designer jewellery
- Antique jewellery
- Branded gold watches
- Rare or collectible pieces
- Jewellery with valuable gemstones
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Prepare Your Gold Before Visiting
There's no need to clean or repair your jewellery before bringing it in.
Instead:
- Check for hallmarks if possible.
- Keep matching items together.
- Bring any original boxes or certificates.
- Bring paperwork for branded watches or jewellery if you have it.
- Bring valid identification with you, as this will be required if you decide to sell. If you're unsure what identification you'll need, simply contact your local store before you visit.
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Ask Questions During Your Gold Valuation
A trustworthy gold valuation should be transparent.
Don't be afraid to ask:
- What carat has my jewellery been assessed as?
- How much does it weigh?
- Does the weight include gemstones or other materials?
- Has this item been valued as jewellery or purely for its gold?
- Why has this offer been made?
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Common Mistakes to Avoid
Before selling your gold, avoid these common mistakes.
Assuming Every Yellow Item Is Gold
Gold-plated jewellery can look almost identical to solid gold but has a very different value.
Overlooking Collectable Pieces
Some jewellery is worth considerably more than its gold content because of its age, maker or desirability.
Relying Only on Online Gold Calculators
Online calculators can provide a rough guide but cannot accurately determine purity, identify gemstones or assess whether an item has additional resale value.
A professional in-store assessment will always provide a far more accurate valuation.
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Why Choose Cash Generator?
When you're looking for cash for gold, choosing a trusted high street retailer gives you confidence throughout the process.
At Cash Generator you'll benefit from:
- Free, no-obligation gold valuations
- Fair and transparent assessments
- Experienced in-store teams
- Instant cash if you choose to sell
- Over 100 stores across the UK
- No pressure to accept an offer
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Ready to Sell Your Gold?
If you've got unwanted gold jewellery tucked away at home, now could be the perfect time to find out what it's worth. Whether it's a broken chain, an unworn ring, a single earring or scrap gold that's been sitting in a drawer for years, you may be surprised by the value it still holds.
If you're looking to sell gold, visit your nearest Cash Generator store for a free, no-obligation gold valuation. Our experienced team will carefully assess your items, explain how they've been valued and provide a fair, transparent offer. If you're happy to proceed, you'll receive instant cash there and then.
With over 100 stores across the UK, expert advice and a fair, transparent gold valuation are never far away. Use our Store Finder to find your nearest Cash Generator store, where you can view opening hours, location details and contact information. At many locations, you can also connect via WhatsApp to ask questions, share photos and discuss your items with the team before you visit.
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Terms & Conditions
In-store gold valuations are provided free of charge and without obligation. Offers are based on several factors, including gold purity, weight, current market prices and the overall assessment of each item. Identification will be required when selling gold. Terms and Conditions apply. Please speak to a member of staff for full details.