When you are looking to buy or sell jewellery, nothing offers a better deal than going to an auction. It allows buyers and sellers to get what they need without entanglement. However, dealing with an inexperienced auctioneer can lead to a mixed experienced. It’s, therefore, crucial to consider some factors that can help you find the right auction house for your situation and determine whether an auction is right for your needs.
1. Realistic Auction Estimate (Valuation)
A crucial factor to consider when selling a piece of jewellery at an auction is to estimate the value of your jewelry. The best way to do this is by seeking the services of an antique jewellery valuation expert. An expert jewellery valuer will look at your piece while handling it professionally to determine a realistic estimate based on various factors.
You may also look at similar articles and see what others are paying for them. However, such a move without the help of a specialist can lead to a wrong figure which can make you lose out on value or misinterpret an item description.
2. Choose Your Auction House Wisely
Auction houses are businesses that sell items at auction. They differ from yard sales and thrift stores in that they specialize in selling valuable items like jewellery rather than just junk or unwanted items. Therefore, these jewellery auctions tend to be more formal and structured than a typical yard sale. The first thing to consider when choosing an auction house is its reputation among buyers and sellers alike–the more people who have bought from them before, the better chance your jewelry will sell well!
That can mean looking for information about their reputation online or asking friends who have dealt with similar companies before if they would recommend one over another. You could also check out their upcoming sales events. Articles often include detailed descriptions of what kinds of items will be available during each event. So, it makes sense to check out in advance.
3. Your Budget or Expected Selling Price
Know what you can afford to spend on jewelry at an auction and stick with that number so you don’t get caught up in emotional decisions based on what someone selling at a lower price might do or say. If possible, try not to make any assumptions about prices or other factors until after seeing what other items are going for–a good rule of thumb is: “What does this thing cost?”
However, aligning your expectations with the value of antique jewellery valuers can help you make informed decisions. That way, you can avoid unwarranted frustrations or miss out on lucrative opportunities. Whether you’re selling an antique or secondhand jewellery, valuation will give you a competitive edge and confidence.
4. Transparency
It’s frustrating to find out after the sale that your jewelry is not exactly what you thought it was. That’s why transparency is critical. You want to know what you are buying so that there are no surprises. How can you expect it to perform if you do not know what kind of quality, clarity and weight each piece of jewelry has?
There should be information on quantifiable parameters. For example, when buying diamond jewellery, it’s crucial to consider carats, cut, cut, clarity, shape, and fluorescence. However, some of these details require a specialist for identification.
5. Flexibility
Flexibility is one of the most important factors to consider when buying or selling jewelry at an auction. The ability to make any adjustments at any time during the event is essential, as are options for completing your transaction. You may be able to buy or sell your jewelry in person, but it’s also possible that you’ll want to do so over the phone or via email correspondence with sellers who aren’t present at the event. Knowing these possibilities enables you to make your plans and adjust accordingly.
If you can’t attend an auction in-person for whatever reason, the availability of online auction options allows you to bid and participate in the auction. Modern technology, such as bidding platforms, will enable users worldwide access through phones/tablets, allowing them access without having any physical presence.
Conclusion
You can find many reasons to sell or shop your jewellery at an auction and get some great ideas for yourself! Auctions are a great place to buy unique pieces you may not find anywhere else and help you build your wardrobe with items that fit your style and other needs perfectly. However, whether you’re looking for Georgian jewellery, suffrage, animal jewellery, diamond jewellery, or a memento mori, identifying an auction house with a good reputation is an integral part of having a memorable experience with your purchase.
