Selling diamond jewellery is more than just handing over a ring or necklace for payment. If you want fair value, a secure transaction, and a trusted buyer, you need to understand what determines price, how to prepare, and where to sell safely.
Whether you’re selling a diamond ring, earrings, or a family heirloom, South Africa’s market offers many opportunities — but also significant differences in price and professionalism. This complete guide will help you make informed choices and achieve the best return.
1. What Determines the Value of Your Diamond Jewellery
When you bring your diamond jewellery in to sell, several key factors determine its worth. Understanding these can help you set realistic expectations and recognise a fair offer.
The Diamond Itself
Diamonds are graded using the internationally recognised Four Cs:
- Carat Weight – Larger diamonds are rarer and generally command higher prices.
- Cut – The precision of the cut affects brilliance and sparkle; a well-cut diamond can appear larger and more radiant.
- Colour – Colourless or near-colourless diamonds (graded D to F) achieve the strongest resale value.
- Clarity – Fewer internal or surface inclusions mean higher quality and value.
- Certified stones — particularly those with GIA, EGL, or Jewellery Council Gem Lab certificates — typically receive stronger offers because their qualities are verified.
The Setting and Precious Metal
The setting also influences total value.
- Gold or Platinum Content: Rings and bracelets made from 18ct or 14ct gold or platinum are valued for their metal weight.
- Designer or Antique Pieces: Branded items such as Cartier, Tiffany, Browns, or Jenna Clifford can command premium resale prices.
- Condition: Clean, undamaged jewellery shows better and sells faster.
Documentation and Provenance
Having supporting documents strengthens your position.
- Certificates, valuations, or receipts build credibility.
- Insurance values differ from resale values — always request a market-based valuation.
- Reputable buyers explain their appraisal process clearly and provide written offers without obligation.
2. Which Types of Diamond Jewellery Sell Best
Some types of diamond jewellery consistently achieve stronger resale value in South Africa’s market:
- Diamond engagement rings — especially solitaires, halos, or multi-stone designs.
- Diamond stud or drop earrings — matched pairs with larger carat stones are particularly desirable.
- Diamond necklaces and pendants — especially those featuring a single, high-quality centre stone.
- Diamond bracelets and bangles — such as tennis or designer-brand pieces.
If your item includes many smaller diamonds (pavé or micro-set), the buyer will assess total carat weight, craftsmanship, and brand reputation rather than each stone individually.
3. How to Choose a Trusted Diamond Buyer
Choosing the right buyer is critical. A professional diamond buyer offers value, transparency, and security — not pressure or uncertainty.
What to Look For
- Private, secure appointments in professional offices.
- On-site testing by qualified gemologists while you watch.
- Transparent pricing linked to current gold and diamond market rates.
- Instant EFT payment at the point of sale.
- Verified reputation, reviews, and professional memberships.
- Clear written offers — no hidden deductions or verbal deals.
Avoid anyone who treats fine jewellery as scrap gold or pushes you to “sell now” without proper appraisal.
4. Where to Sell — Trusted Diamond Buyers Across South Africa
South Africa offers reputable diamond buyers in several major cities. Selling locally ensures convenience, security, and often the most competitive prices.
- Diamond Buyers Sandton – Situated in Johannesburg’s financial hub, Sandton hosts certified buyers and gemologists offering discreet, market-linked valuations.
- Diamond Buyers Cape Town – Known for reputable jewellers and diamond dealers with transparent, same-day offers.
- Diamond Buyers Umhlanga, Durban – Servicing KwaZulu-Natal’s North Coast, these buyers specialise in luxury diamond pieces and branded jewellery.
Tip: Always verify credentials and request a detailed written quote. A reputable buyer will be happy to explain their evaluation step by step.
5. Safety and Secure Selling Practices
Selling high-value jewellery requires professionalism and discretion. To protect yourself:
- Meet only in secure, private offices — never in public spaces or at home.
- Ensure the buyer has controlled-access premises and appointment-only consultations.
- Watch all testing and valuation steps as they happen.
- Keep your jewellery in sight until payment clears.
- Always confirm EFT payment before releasing your item.
- Request a written valuation or offer breakdown for your records.
Professional buyers across South Africa — from Sandton to Cape Town, and Umhlanga, Durban — operate with transparency, confidentiality, and security to protect your valuables.
6. Prepare Before You Sell — A Quick Checklist
- Gather certificates, valuations, or receipts (GIA, EGL, etc.).
- Clean your jewellery — presentation matters.
- Book a private appointment with a verified buyer.
- Ask how the offer is calculated and confirm EFT payment.
- Get every offer in writing.
- If unsure, seek a second opinion — a trustworthy buyer will never pressure you.
7. Why Documentation and Certification Matter
If you own diamond jewellery with a GIA or EGL certificate, it provides a measurable advantage. Certificates confirm the stone’s authenticity and characteristics — giving buyers confidence and often resulting in a higher offer.
Even without certification, an experienced gemologist can evaluate your piece accurately using advanced testing tools and microscopy. Always request a resale appraisal, which reflects current market value — not inflated insurance figures.
8. Why Thousands of South Africans Choose Gold & Finance
For over three decades, Gold & Finance has been recognised as South Africa’s most trusted gold and diamond buyer — known for integrity, transparency, and professionalism.
Our reputation is built on fairness, expertise, and trust.
Why clients choose Gold & Finance:
- GIA & EGL Graduate Gemologists and qualified appraisers on-site.
- Accredited members of the Jewellery Council and Diamond Board of South Africa.
- Fair, market-linked offers — never “melt-value only” pricing.
- Instant EFT payment with full transparency.
- Specialists in branded jewellery, including Cartier, Tiffany, Louis Vuitton, Browns, Jenna Clifford, Charles Greig, and Jack Friedman.
- Discreet, professional service at private offices nationwide.
- Over 33 years of proven credibility, verified client reviews, and thousands of repeat customers.
At Gold & Finance, selling your diamond jewellery isn’t just about price — it’s about trust, privacy, and peace of mind.
When you’re ready, take the next step with confidence.
Get Your Offer below and find out what your diamond jewellery is truly worth today.











