How To Prepare Your Jewellery For Auction

If you’re thinking about selling your jewellery at auction, preparation is key. Whether it’s a diamond

A Fancy Yellow Diamond Ring

ring, a designer necklace, or an antique brooch, presenting your piece in the best possible light can have a big impact on the final result under the hammer.

At Furlong Auction House, our expert team helps clients every step of the way — from valuation to marketing and final sale. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to prepare your jewellery for auction to maximise its value and appeal.

1. Have Your Jewellery Professionally Valued

The first step is understanding what your piece is worth in today’s market.At Furlong, our qualified specialists provide free auction valuations based on:

• Current market demand

• Quality and condition

• Brand, provenance, and rarity

Tip: Always seek an auction-led valuation (not an insurance one), as it reflects realistic selling prices rather than replacement costs.

2. Clean, But Don’t Overdo It

A gentle clean can help restore sparkle and presentation — especially for diamonds and gemstones. However, avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic machines at home.

Pro tip: If your item is valuable, antique, or delicate, let our team handle professional cleaning or polishing through our trusted in-house jewellers.

3. Gather Any Documentation You Have

Paperwork adds value — especially for designer, diamond, or coloured gemstone pieces. Include:

• Certificates (e.g. GIA, HRD, SSEF)

• Original receipts or invoices

• Boxes, pouches, or branded packaging

• Previous valuations or service records

• Any provenance documents (e.g. if the piece belonged to a known collector or family)

Original boxes and papers can increase the value of branded pieces significantly.

4. Understand the Market for Your Item

Timing matters. Certain pieces do better at different times of year (bridal jewellery in spring, bold cocktail pieces in winter), and market trends can affect demand.

Our team will advise you whether now is the right time to sell or if it’s worth waiting for a key seasonal auction or collector's event.

5. Don’t Rush to Repair or Alter

While it may be tempting to fix a loose stone or resize a ring, we recommend speaking to our specialists first. Some restorations can affect originality, and certain collectors prefer untouched condition — particularly for antique or signed pieces.

A poor repair job could actually reduce value, so always consult before making changes.

6. Let Us Handle the Presentation

Once consigned, your jewellery will be professionally:

• Photographed for catalogues and online listings

• Described by experts with detailed condition reports

• Marketed to global collectors and trade buyers

We ensure every piece is showcased to its full potential — with no extra effort required from you.

What’s Next? The Auction Timeline

Once your item is consigned, here’s what to expect:

1. Valuation and agreement

2. Photography and catalogue inclusion

3. Pre-sale marketing campaign

4. Live auction (online or in person)

5. Settlement — You’ll receive payment typically within 28 days of the sale.

Thinking of Selling?

Whether you have a single heirloom or an entire jewellery box, we’re here to help you every step of the way — with discretion, expertise, and a strong global buyer base.

Book a Free Valuation with the Jewellery Department at Furlong Auction House today.