Melt value is the theoretical pure metal value if an item were refined completely. Scrap value is what a buyer actually pays — typically 70–80% of melt value for gold and 50–70% for silver. Buyers take a margin to cover refining, handling and profit. Our calculators show both numbers so you know the full range.

Look for a hallmark stamp on the piece — usually inside a ring band, on a clasp, or on a chain tag. Common stamps: 417 or 10k (10 karat), 585 or 14k (14 karat), 750 or 18k (18 karat), 999 or 24k (24 karat). If there is no stamp, a jeweller can test with acid or an electronic tester for a few dollars.

Junk silver refers to pre-1965 US coins (dimes, quarters, half dollars, dollar coins) that contain 90% silver. These coins circulated as legal tender but were removed from circulation when silver prices rose. Each dime contains 0.0723 troy ounces of silver, each quarter 0.1808 oz, and each half dollar 0.3617 oz. The melt value fluctuates daily with silver spot prices.

Diamond values vary significantly based on cut quality, colour grade, clarity and provenance — two 1-carat diamonds can differ in value by $5,000 or more. Our calculator provides a reasonable range based on simplified grade inputs aligned with published price guides. For a precise appraisal, use a GIA-certified appraiser. The calculator is most useful for understanding a ballpark before selling or insuring.

Gold and silver spot prices are updated daily from international commodity markets (London Bullion Market Association fix). Prices shown reflect the most recent market close. For live real-time prices, check Kitco or the LBMA directly. The daily close price is sufficient for scrap and melt value calculations.

No. Gold-filled jewelry has a layer of gold bonded to a base metal (usually brass). The gold layer is typically 1/20th of the item’s total weight (marked 1/20 14k GF). It has some scrap value — usually a few dollars per piece — but far less than solid gold. Gold-plated items have an even thinner layer and are typically worth only the base metal. Our gold-filled calculator accounts for the actual gold content.