10 Questions to Ask Your Gold Valuer

Many sellers walk into a jeweller or gold buyer without knowing what to ask. As a result, they rely entirely on trust, often without understanding how the value was reached. Asking the right questions puts you back in control and helps ensure you get an honest deal.

Below are ten essential questions to ask your gold valuer, along with why each one matters.

1. What is the purity of my gold?

Gold is rarely pure. Most jewellery is an alloy, meaning it’s mixed with other metals for strength and durability. Purity is measured in carats, such as 9ct, 14ct, 18ct, or 22ct.

Ask the valuer how they test purity and what carat your item is. A reliable valuer should explain the result clearly, whether they use hallmark checks, acid testing, or XRF scanning.

Why this matters: the higher the carat, the more gold your item contains, and the more it’s worth.

2. How do you test the gold?

Don’t be afraid to ask about the testing process. Reputable UK gold valuers are open about how they assess gold and will often test items in front of you.

Common methods include:

• Hallmark identification
• Acid testing
• Electronic or XRF testing

If a valuer is vague, refuses to explain, or won’t test the gold in your presence, that’s a red flag.

3. What gold price are you using today?

Gold prices change daily, sometimes hourly. Ask which gold price they are using and whether it’s based on the current spot price.

A professional valuer should be able to tell you:

• The live or daily gold price
• When it was last updated
• Whether prices are based on London bullion rates

Why this matters: outdated or unclear pricing can significantly reduce what you’re offered.

4. How is my offer calculated?

This is one of the most important questions. A trustworthy gold valuer should clearly explain how they arrive at their offer.

The calculation usually involves:

• Weight of the gold
• Purity (carat)
• Current gold price
• Their margin or fees

If the explanation feels rushed or confusing, ask them to slow down. You have every right to understand how your gold is being valued.

5. Are there any fees or deductions?

Some gold buyers deduct fees for testing, refining, or handling. Others build their margin into the price they offer.

Ask directly whether there are any deductions and how they’re applied. Transparent businesses will tell you upfront if any fees apply.

Hidden deductions are one of the most common complaints from gold sellers.

6. Do you pay different rates for jewellery, coins, and bullion?

Not all gold is valued the same way. Jewellery is usually priced for its gold content only, while coins and bullion may carry additional value depending on demand and condition.

Ask whether:

• Bullion is paid at a higher percentage of spot price.
• Coins are assessed for collectability.
• Designer or branded jewellery is valued separately.

This question is especially important if you’re selling sovereigns, Britannias, or investment bars.

7. Will I be paid immediately?

Many gold buyers offer instant payment by bank transfer or cash (within legal limits). Always confirm how and when you’ll be paid.

Ask:

• Whether payment is immediate
• What payment methods are available?
• If identification is required

A reputable valuer won’t delay payment unnecessarily or pressure you to leave your items behind without clear terms.

8. Can I decline the offer and take my gold back?

You should never feel obligated to sell. Ask upfront whether you can refuse the offer and leave with your gold.

A professional gold valuer will respect your decision and return your items without complaint. Pressure tactics, guilt, or sudden “limited time” offers are warning signs.

9. Are you fully registered and compliant with UK regulations?

Gold buyers must comply with anti-money laundering regulations and consumer protection laws. Ask whether the business is:

• Registered in the UK
• Compliant with AML requirements
• Able to provide proper documentation or receipts.

This protects you as a seller and shows the valuer operates legitimately.

10. Can you provide a written valuation or receipt?

Always ask for written confirmation of the valuation or sale. This should include:

• Weight and purity of items
• Price offered or paid.
• Date of transaction
• Business details

Written records protect both parties and add an extra layer of transparency to the process.

Final thoughts: confidence leads to better outcomes.

Selling gold doesn’t need to feel intimidating. The best gold valuers welcome questions and take the time to explain their process clearly.

By asking these ten questions, you’ll:

• Understand what your gold is really worth.
• Avoid hidden fees or unfair pricing.
• Spot untrustworthy practices early
• Feel confident about your decision.

Whether you’re selling broken jewellery, inherited items, or investment gold, knowledge is your strongest asset. A reputable UK gold valuer or buyer will respect that and treat you accordingly.

If a valuer can’t answer these questions openly, it’s usually best to walk away and get a second opinion.