Jewellery appraisal

gem_man

BusyMumof3

Indeed reusing the diamonds would be a lovely way of maintaining a possible "sentimental" value and at the same time ensure that you have a piece that you like and can wear a lot. Ultimately, the amount of wear and the amount of pleasure you get from wearing an item dictates the degree of "value for money" you are receiving for the cost of remounting. I have written more on this subject on my jewellery valuation blog (admin: feel free to delete this link if it is not allowed).

It is difficult to advise the best course of action to take regarding selling the items without seeing them. You may find that the jeweller that carried out the probate valuation can advise you, since they are familiar with the items, you and the local market. They may be prepared to waive their profit on buying the items if they are taken in against the remounting job.

Auctions can be good but there is an element of luck involved as it depends who is the room on the day of the sale. Also be aware that there are costs involved, typically a commission of 15%-20% is payable to the auction house. Also there can be a large delay before a suitable sale comes up. In addition, very often you may have to wait a month after the sale date for a cheque to be issued. I would speak to your jeweller in the first instance.

Glad this thread has been of use to you

Kind regards
Adrian