Jewellery can be one of the trickiest parts of probate to assess. A small box of mixed items might contain everything from family keepsakes to surprisingly valuable pieces.
For solicitors and executors knowing where to start can feel daunting, but there are some simple checks you can do yourself to get a clearer picture of what’s in front of you.
These five practical tips can be a useful first step in identifying items that may be worth a closer look.
1. Look for hallmarks
Hallmarks are often the clearest sign that a piece is made from precious metal.
In the UK, these marks are typically found inside ring bands, on necklace clasps, or on the backs of brooches. Common marks include 375 for 9-carat gold, 585 for 14-carat, 750 for 18-carat, and 925 for sterling silver.
2. Try the magnet test
Precious metals such as gold, silver, and platinum are not magnetic.
If a piece is drawn to a strong magnet, it’s probably made from a base metal with a plated finish. This is often a clear sign that the item is costume jewellery rather than something of significant value.
3. Use the pearl-to-teeth texture test
Pearls vary widely in value, but a simple test can help.
Gently rub a pearl against the edge of your front teeth. Real pearls feel slightly gritty due to their natural surface texture. Imitation pearls, usually made of glass or plastic, will feel completely smooth.
Genuine pearls also tend to have minor imperfections in shape and surface, whereas fakes are often too perfectly round and uniform.
4. Silver rings rarely hold precious gems
If a ring is stamped 925, it’s made from sterling silver.
Silver is relatively soft, which makes it a poor choice for securing high-value gemstones like diamonds or emeralds. These stones are far more commonly set in gold or platinum, which provide better durability and protection.
So while a silver ring with a bright, clear stone might look impressive the gemstone is likely to be cubic zirconia or another less valuable alternative.
5. Check clasps, links and fittings
The way a piece is constructed can reveal a lot. Valuable jewellery usually has solid, well-made fastenings, such as lobster clasps or box clasps that lock securely in place. These are designed for both durability and security and are typically used in gold or silver items.
If a clasp feels flimsy, is hard to fasten or looks out of proportion to the rest of the piece, it’s often a sign of costume jewellery. Quality pieces tend to have fittings that are both functional and well-finished.
When in doubt, seek a professional valuation
These tips are a useful guide, but they aren’t a substitute for expert advice. Some older items may have no visible hallmarks but still carry significant value. Likewise, some costume pieces can be surprisingly convincing.
With gold prices at their current record highs jewellery that once fell below reporting thresholds will now often need to be itemised in probate paperwork.
A professional assessment is often less expensive that you’d expect and provides clarity, helping you avoid under-reporting to HMRC or missing something important.
When in doubt, a valuation offers peace of mind and protects both the estate and those administering it. From just £25 Swift Values can provide an expert opinion based on just a few photographs.
This article was submitted to be published by Swift Values as part of their advertising agreement with Today’s Wills and Probate. The views expressed in this article are those of the submitter and not those of Today’s Wills and Probate.
