How to Check if Your Gold Jewelry is Real—and What It’s Worth

Have you ever inherited a box of jewelry from a relative, only to wonder if any of it is real gold? Or maybe you’ve found a single earring tucked away in a drawer and thought, “Is this worth anything?” Whether it’s an old chain from high school, a bracelet that’s been sitting in your jewelry box for years, or a broken ring you’ve been meaning to fix, you might be surprised by what you have laying around.

If you’re in the Batavia, IL area and want answers, here’s a simple guide to help you check your gold jewelry at home—and when it’s time to visit an expert.

1. Check for Stamps or Hallmarks

The first step is to look for small markings called hallmarks that indicate the gold’s purity.

These are typically located:

• Inside the band of a ring

• On the clasp of a necklace or bracelet

• On the back or post of an earring

Common gold stamps include:

• 10K (41.7% gold)

• 14K (58.3% gold)

• 18K (75% gold)

• 585 (14K)

• 750 (18K)

If you don’t see a stamp, don’t worry—it doesn’t always mean it’s not real. Older pieces may have worn-down marks, or certain vintage styles might not have been stamped at all. That’s when it helps to have a trusted jeweler take a closer look.

2. Consider the Condition—Even Broken Gold Has Value

You might think, “This chain is broken—probably worthless,” but that’s not necessarily true. Gold is measured by weight, purity, and market value, so even if your piece is bent, dented, or missing a stone, it can still hold value.

Whether it’s a single earring, a tangled bracelet, or a class ring you no longer wear, don’t toss it—bring it in. The type of gold (yellow, white, or rose) doesn’t affect the value itself—it’s the gold content that counts.

3. When in Doubt, Get a Professional Evaluation

While at-home tests can give you a hint, the only way to know for sure is to have your gold checked by an expert. At K. Hollis Jewelers in Batavia, IL, our experienced team goes beyond standard tools and testing methods—so you get accurate, trustworthy information.

Whether you’re looking to sell, trade in, or simply learn more about your pieces, we’ll guide you every step of the way. And if you’ve got a family heirloom that feels too special to sell, we’ll help you explore custom redesign options to give it new life.

4. What You Can Do with Old Gold Jewelry

Once you know the value of your gold, there are several ways you can make it work for you:

• Sell for Cash: Get a fair offer based on current market rates.

• Trade for Store Credit: We’re offering a 30% bonus on cash gold trade-ins or a 40% bonus toward store credit—a great way to treat yourself to something new.

• Redesign Into Something New: Use your gold to create a one-of-a-kind custom piece—turn that broken chain into a pendant, or use grandma’s ring to create a necklace you’ll love to wear.

Your Local Resource for Gold Jewelry in Batavia, IL

At K. Hollis Jewelers, we’re more than just a jewelry store—we’re your trusted local resource for honest advice, expert evaluations, and personal service. We proudly serve Batavia, Geneva, St. Charles, and the surrounding Fox Valley area. If you’re wondering “Is my gold jewelry real?” or “What is my gold worth?”—stop by and let’s find out together.