help evaluate antique ring

[hintimon]

hi all. my mother recently gave me a ring of hers to sell. she is terrified of "gold buyers" and local jewelers alike thinking that they are all out to rip her off. i suggested maybe selling it on ebay but unfortunately neither of us know enough about it to be able to determine a value or a realistic price to expect. i told her i would ask the community here in hope of getting a better idea.

she knows nothing about it other than it dates from around 1910-1920 and that the setting is platinum. i was hoping that some of you might have some more info in terms of value as well as some info on what type of setting it is, cut type, etc. i know that i am not providing much info but any insight will help.

thanks.

 

[mandasand]

First step is to have it appraised and not at a jewelry store. Dave Atlas appraises antique pieces: http://www.datlas.com/

 

[Dreamer_D]

You will not get much on ebay I think rings that look similar from private sellers go for well under $500, perhaps closer to $300. The ring is pretty and the mount lovely, but the value is mostly in the diamond in older rings like that and smaller stones (under 5mm) just don't fetch much. It looks like the diamond is a modern cut in its make, from what I can tell in the pics, which also makes the diamond a little less desirable.

A very good appraisal is essential, and really good photos, and even then you might not be able to get much selling it yourself. It is hard to sell things privately! But Dave Atlas is a good place to start. You could consider consignment locally, many jewelers offer that service. But the key will be realistic about your expectations.

 

[hintimon]

thanks for the suggestions. thats exactly what i was looking for. i dont think the appraisal will be worth while considering that i am likely to get less than $500. i think consignment is the way to go. i am in no hurry to sell it. thanks again

 

[SB621]

For a quick sale you can try putting in on DB and LT. However, I would still take it to a dimond expert so they could give you some semi realistic expectations for the diamond...what type, color, clarity etc. It will help for a quick sale.