Where to Sell Gold in the UK: Scrap vs Auction vs Jeweller (2026 Guide)

If you’re wondering where to sell gold in the UK, you’re not alone. With gold prices remaining strong, many people are checking old jewellery boxes, inherited items, and broken chains to see what they might be worth. With gold at record levels, now is the perfect time to sell (see our guide: Should I Sell My Gold Now?)

The truth is, where you sell your gold can significantly affect how much you get for it. This guide explains your main options and how to choose the best one. Rising gold and silver prices make now the perfect time to auction your precious metals.

At Potteries Auctions, our jewellery specialists value gold items every week, from simple 14k chains to designer jewellery set with diamonds or gemstones. If you would like to find out what your jewellery could sell for, our team can provide a free, no-obligation valuation.

You can book a free valuation, send your images on WhatsApp to 07864 667940 or book an face-to-face appointment – all with no obligation.

Contact Us Today

Where Can I Sell Gold in the UK?

There are three main places you can sell gold:

• Jewellers and high street gold buyers
• Online scrap gold buyers
• Auction houses (specialist sales for better returns)

Each option suits different types of gold items and selling goals. While you may be tempted to sell your gold with high street or online gold buyers, check out our guide before you sell your gold for scrap, read this (auction vs trade prices) which goes through why selling your gold at auction has a range of advantages over selling it for scrap.

Selling Gold to Jewellers or High Street Buyers

This is the fastest option for selling gold.

Pros:

• Immediate payment
• Simple process
• Widely available

Cons:

• Often pays below market value
• Focus is usually on scrap value only
• No competition between buyers

This option is best for:

• Small amounts of broken jewellery
• Scrap gold you want to sell quickly
• Items with no collectible value

Selling Scrap Gold (Melt Value)

Scrap gold buyers pay based on the metal content and weight.

Common items include:

• Broken chains
• Single earrings
• Unwanted rings
• Dental gold or fragments

How scrap gold is valued:

• Based on current gold price
• Measured by weight and purity (e.g. 9ct, 14ct, 18ct, 22ct)

Important: Scrap gold buyers do not pay for design, rarity, or brand.

Selling Gold at Auction (Best Chance at Higher Returns)

Auction houses can often achieve higher prices than scrap value, especially for:

• Gold jewellery in good condition
• Antique or designer pieces
• Gold coins and sovereigns
• Unique or collectible items

At auction, buyers compete against each other, which can push prices above melt value.

Related reading: Should I Sell My Gold for Scrap or at Auction?

What Gold Items Can You Sell?

You may be surprised what is worth selling:

Jewellery

• Rings (9ct, 14ct, 18ct, 22ct)
• Necklaces and chains
• Bracelets and bangles
• Broken or single items

Coins

• Gold sovereigns
• Half sovereigns
• Krugerrands
• Gold bullion coins

Read more about the gold coins and currency for sold at auction and how your 14k gold jewellery could be worth more than you think. You can also sell your gold necklaces.

Other gold items

• Gold coin necklaces
• Antique gold jewellery
• Mixed jewellery boxes

Read more about the gold and jewellery which sells well at auction.

Is Now a Good Time to Sell Gold?

Gold prices fluctuate based on global economic conditions, currency strength, and investor demand.

Many people choose to sell when:

• Prices are high
• They are downsizing or inheriting jewellery
• Items are no longer worn

Read more about why rising gold and silver prices make now the perfect time to auction your precious metals.

Why Auction Can Achieve Higher Prices

At auction, buyers compete for items they want, which can result in:

• Higher prices than scrap value
• Strong demand for gold coins and jewellery
• Premiums for rare or attractive pieces

Even broken or mixed collections can perform well if there is collector interest.

Learn more in our guide to selling jewellery at auction jewellery valuations for gold silver diamonds and more.

Tips Before Selling Gold

Separate items by karat if possible (9ct, 14ct, etc.)Don’t clean heavily — this can reduce valueCheck for hallmarks if presentGet multiple valuations if unsure

Frequently Asked Questions About Where To Sell Gold in the UK