Sell Estate Jewelry in Phoenix – The Ultimate Guide to Maximizing Value
Table of Contents
- Why Sell Estate Jewelry in Phoenix?
- Understanding Estate Jewelry Value
- Selling Inherited Jewelry
- Tips to Get the Best Price for Estate Jewelry
- Where to Sell Estate Jewelry in Phoenix
- Why Choose Gold King Bullion
- Phoenix Metro Locations and Services
Selling estate jewelry can feel daunting – these pieces often carry both sentimental value and significant financial value. Whether you’ve acquired antique heirlooms or you’re simply looking to sell estate jewelry you no longer wear, knowing how to navigate the process will ensure you get the best price. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything from understanding what affects your jewelry’s value to finding the best place to sell estate jewelry in Phoenix. By the end, you’ll be equipped to sell estate jewelry with confidence, armed with tips to maximize your payout, and familiar with why Gold King Bullion is a top choice in the Phoenix area.
Why Sell Estate Jewelry in Phoenix?
Phoenix’s robust economy and thriving gold market make it an excellent place to sell estate jewelry. In fact, the precious metals market has been exceptionally strong in recent years. Gold prices are near historic highs, even surpassing $3,500 per ounce in 2025, which means you could receive a premium payout for gold jewelry compared to a decade ago. High demand for pre-owned jewelry and precious metals in the Valley means sellers have multiple avenues to find a great deal.
Beyond the favorable market conditions, selling estate jewelry can help turn unworn items into useful cash. Perhaps you’ve inherited a collection of jewelry that doesn’t suit your style, or you have vintage pieces sitting in a drawer. Monetizing these assets allows you to use the funds for something meaningful – whether it’s paying bills, investing elsewhere, or purchasing something special (you might even decide to reinvest in precious metals or buy gold in Phoenix for long-term savings). Phoenix’s large metropolitan area is home to many reputable buyers, including dedicated gold dealers in Phoenix who specialize in evaluating estate pieces. This competition among buyers works to your advantage, helping ensure you receive fair market value when you sell.
Finally, Phoenix offers the convenience of numerous local jewelry and bullion buying locations to sell estate jewelry. With Gold King Bullion’s presence (more on that below), you have 10 locations valley-wide where you can quickly sell estate jewelry without the hassle of shipping items or dealing with online uncertainties. The convenience of local, in-person transactions – combined with Phoenix’s high demand for gold and jewelry – makes selling estate jewelry here a smart choice for many Arizonans.
Understanding Estate Jewelry Value
Before you sell estate jewelry, it’s important to understand what “estate jewelry” actually means and what factors influence its value. Estate jewelry typically refers to any piece of jewelry that is pre-owned. It can range from antique and vintage jewelry (pieces over 50 or 100 years old) to relatively modern items that someone owned and is now part of an estate. The key is that it’s previously owned jewelry, which could have been passed down through family (inherited jewelry) or acquired from estate sales. When you sell estate jewelry, it’s therefore crucial to understand the market dynamics at play.
Age alone doesn’t determine value – old doesn’t always equal gold. A piece might be a sought-after collector’s item, or it could have fallen out of fashion and lost appeal. Factors such as the current market price of gemstones and metals, the quality of artistry and craftsmanship, and even the designer or brand can dramatically affect what your estate jewelry is worth. For example, a vintage Tiffany & Co. necklace or a limited-edition designer watch will carry a premium beyond just metal and gem values due to collector demand.
Condition is another critical factor. Jewelry that’s been well-maintained (or can be restored with a simple cleaning) will fetch higher offers. If a piece is damaged or missing stones, its value might be primarily in the intrinsic metal content (often called the melt value). Melt value is essentially what the precious metal (gold, silver, platinum) in your jewelry is worth if it were melted down. It sets a floor price for your item – buyers won’t pay less than melt value (otherwise they could melt it for profit). However, if your piece has collectible value or beautiful design that can be resold, a good buyer will factor that in and pay above the raw metal price.
Gemstones and their quality also influence value. Diamonds, for instance, are often the most valuable part of a ring. If you have larger diamonds or high-quality colored gems (sapphires, rubies, emeralds), consider obtaining a gemological report or certificate. A Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grading report can verify a diamond’s characteristics, which helps ensure you get full credit for its quality. Similarly, hallmarks or stamps on the jewelry indicating gold karat or designer signatures can raise its desirability.
For inherited jewelry, there may be an emotional dimension to value. You might wonder if it’s worth selling a beloved family heirloom. It’s a personal decision, but keep in mind that sentimental value doesn’t translate to market value. A modest ring from 40 years ago could mean the world to you, but if the style is dated it may not command a high price from buyers. Conversely, you might have a quirky antique brooch that isn’t your taste but is extremely rare – collectors could pay handsomely for it. Before selling inherited pieces, it’s wise to get an appraisal or at least a couple of informal quotes, so you have an objective sense of what each item is worth in today’s market.
Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about an item’s value, do a little homework before selling. Research similar pieces online or visit multiple dealers for opinions. Never dismiss costume jewelry either – sometimes a piece you think is just costume actually has value (certain vintage costume jewelry brands are collectible, and some pieces might contain gold or silver without obvious markings). By understanding what you have, you’ll be in a stronger position to sell estate jewelry for an optimal price.
Each estate jewelry piece is unique, and its value can range widely. Factors like metal content, gemstones, designer, age, and condition all interplay to determine what a buyer will pay. For example, an 18k gold Cuban link chain (a style of thick, interlocking gold chain often sought after in the secondhand market) will largely be valued on gold weight if being sold for scrap, but could fetch more if it’s a trendy style in demand. On the other hand, an Edwardian-era platinum ring with an old European cut diamond has antique value that may exceed its raw materials. Understanding these nuances ensures you won’t undersell a treasure or hold unrealistic expectations for a common item. When you sell estate jewelry, sell to experts.
Where to Sell Estate Jewelry in Phoenix
When it comes to where to sell estate jewelry, you have several options in the Phoenix area – each with pros and cons. The main avenues include: specialized gold and jewelry buyers, pawn shops, auction houses or estate sale companies, consignment or jewelry stores, and online marketplaces. Let’s break down these options:
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Local Gold Buyers / Precious Metals Dealers: Phoenix has numerous gold-buying businesses (like Gold King Bullion) and coin shops that purchase estate jewelry. These buyers are well-versed in precious metal values and often pay based on the item’s gold or silver weight, plus some value for diamonds or designer pieces. The big advantage here is speed and convenience – you can walk in with your jewelry and walk out with cash or a check the same day. Reputable dealers offer transparent evaluations, often letting you watch the weighing and testing process. For example, Gold King Bullion’s locations are known for their transparency and fairness – they even publish their buy/sell prices online for gold and silver, so you know you’re getting a competitive rate (see their buy-sell prices page for live rates). If you want a secure, immediate sale, a dedicated gold buyer or estate jewelry buyer is an excellent choice.
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Pawn Shops: Pawn shops will also buy estate jewelry and can provide instant cash. In Phoenix, pawn shops are plentiful. However, pawn shops often operate on higher margins. They may offer you less than a specialized gold buyer or jeweler, because they need to resell the item quickly (and they assume many sellers aren’t fully informed of an item’s value). Pawn shops can be useful if you need a very quick loan (you can pawn and later reclaim an item), but if your goal is outright selling for the best price, you’re likely better off with a gold dealer or jewelry specialist who focuses on buying precious metals.
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Jewelry Stores & Consignment: Some jewelry stores in Phoenix buy back estate pieces or offer consignment programs. Selling directly to a jeweler might yield a good price if the piece is something they know they can resell (like a diamond engagement ring or a high-end designer piece). Consignment means the jeweler will display and try to sell your item, and you get paid only when it sells (usually the store takes a commission). The upside is potentially getting a higher price than melt value, especially for luxury jewelry, since the store will try to get retail value from a customer. The downside is time and uncertainty – it could take weeks or months to find a buyer, or the piece may not sell at all. If you’re not in a rush and trust the jeweler, consignment might be an option for exceptional items. But for most people looking to sell estate jewelry, waiting months isn’t ideal.
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Auctions and Estate Sales: If you have very high-end or rare estate jewelry (for example, a Cartier vintage piece, or a large diamond from an estate), an auction house could be considered. Phoenix has some estate auction companies, and there are also international auction platforms. Auctions can sometimes fetch high prices if the right bidders are interested, but they also come with fees and no guarantee of sale (or the price could end up lower than expected if bidding is weak). This route makes sense for truly extraordinary items (often in the five-figure and up value range) where collectors worldwide might bid. For ordinary jewelry, auctions aren’t usually practical due to the commission fees and preparation involved.
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Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay or platforms like Craigslist/Facebook Marketplace allow you to list jewelry for sale. While you might net a bit more by finding a private buyer, there are significant drawbacks. Online selling requires expertise – you must write a compelling listing, take good photos, and most importantly, accurately represent the item (especially with jewelry, trust is a big factor for buyers). There’s also risk in dealing with scammers or non-paying buyers. Shipping valuables and insurance are other concerns. Some specialized online platforms, like Worthy or The Diamond Pro’s partners, focus on helping people sell estate jewelry or diamonds by connecting to professional buyers, which can yield fair prices in a relatively safe manner. However, these often charge commissions or have a process that takes several days to complete. If you’re internet-savvy and patient, selling online could work, but many sellers prefer the ease of local sales to avoid the hassle.
Selling Inherited Jewelry
If you’re specifically looking to sell inherited jewelry, you’re not alone – many people in Phoenix find themselves with inherited rings, necklaces, or even entire collections that they’re not sure what to do with. Inherited jewelry often qualifies as “estate jewelry” since it’s coming from an estate of a family member. The same options above apply, but a few additional pointers are worth considering:
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Appraise or Get Multiple Opinions: Inherited pieces might be antique or unusual, so it’s wise to have them evaluated. You might start with a professional appraisal for high-value items, especially if you believe something could be an expensive antique or a large gemstone piece. For items of moderate value, you can also visit two or three dealers in the Phoenix area to get price estimates. Getting multiple quotes will give you confidence that you’re not inadvertently selling a $10,000 item for $1,000. (It’s rare, but there are stories of people selling inherited jewelry cheaply only to later discover it was extremely valuable.)
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Family Considerations: Before you sell grandma’s wedding ring or your father’s heirloom watch, make sure other family members are okay with it. Once sold, these pieces are gone for good. It can help to talk with relatives and ensure everyone agrees it’s the right decision to sell, especially if the items have sentimental family history.
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Choose a Trustworthy Buyer: When dealing with sentimental items, you want the transaction to feel comfortable. You may prefer a private appraisal room or a buyer who handles the items gently and transparently. Look for established Phoenix jewelry buyers or gold dealers with strong reputations. Read reviews or ask friends for recommendations on where to sell inherited jewelry safely. A place that uses proper equipment (like electronic testers or XRF devices) and explains the pricing will put you at ease. Gold King Bullion, for instance, prides itself on transparent testing and weighing right in front of the client, so you understand how they value your jewelry.
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Emotional Detachment: It can be emotional to part with inherited jewelry. Remind yourself why you’re selling – perhaps the item will fund something meaningful that honors your loved one’s memory, or it’s simply not practical for you to keep. By selling, you are passing the piece on to someone else who will appreciate it, and you’re unlocking its value for your own needs. That said, if you’re truly unsure, it’s okay to hold off. You can always sell later, but you can’t reverse a sale.
Many people search for where to sell inherited jewelry and worry about being taken advantage of. By doing a bit of due diligence and choosing a reputable Phoenix buyer, you can ensure you get a fair deal on inherited pieces without added stress.
Tips to Get the Best Price for Estate Jewelry
Now that you know the where, let’s look at how to maximize what you get when you sell estate jewelry. Regardless of whom you sell to, there are smart steps to take that can increase your payout or make the process smoother. Here are some expert tips:
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Clean Your Jewelry (Gently): First impressions matter. Jewelry with years of tarnish or dirt might appear lower quality. Gently clean your pieces before getting them evaluated. Use mild soap and warm water for gold and most gemstones (avoid harsh chemicals, especially on soft stones or antique pieces). For silver, a polish cloth can work wonders. Do note: if a piece is very old or valuable, you might want to leave deep cleaning to an expert to avoid damage. But presenting jewelry in its best light can make a difference in the offer, especially if selling to a jeweler who might resell the piece.
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Keep Original Boxes or Papers: If your estate jewelry is from a known brand and you have the original box, packaging, or certificates, bring them. A vintage Cartier box or a Tiffany & Co. certificate can add credibility and value. According to estate sale experts, sometimes even the vintage box itself can add interest for buyers or collectors. Documentation like diamond certificates, appraisals, or receipts can also support your asking price.
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Know the Market Prices: Precious metal prices fluctuate daily. Before selling, check the current spot price of gold or silver (you can easily find live prices on sites like Kitco or on Gold King Bullion’s live pricing page). When you know that gold is, say, $1,950/oz on the market, you can roughly estimate the melt value of your jewelry. For example, a 10K gold chain that weighs half an ounce in pure gold content has a melt value around half of $1,950 (minus a refining fee). Good buyers typically pay a percentage of melt value (often a high percentage, like 70-90% for common items, and possibly more for premium pieces). If someone offers you dramatically less, that’s a red flag. Being informed gives you leverage. One reason Gold King Bullion stays popular is that they stay up-to-date with market prices and adjust their offers accordingly, so sellers receive fair, market-driven payouts.
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Get Multiple Offers: Don’t hesitate to shop around. Especially for high-value items, visit two or three buyers. You might find offers vary. Some buyers might see more resale value in your piece than others. For instance, one store might recognize that your estate ring is by a designer and thus pay a premium, whereas another place sees it just as a gold ring. By comparing offers, you ensure you’re choosing the best one. As one Los Angeles estate jeweler recommended, take your jewelry to two or three dealers for estimates. The same holds true in Phoenix – a short afternoon of quote-gathering could mean extra dollars in your pocket.
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Consider the Timing: While you can’t time the market perfectly, if you’re not in a rush, keep an eye on precious metal trends. If gold has a big upswing (as it has in recent times, hitting record highs), that could be a lucrative moment to sell gold-heavy jewelry. Also, some buyers may run promotions or have more liquidity at certain times (for example, a jeweler might pay a bit more right before a big gem show if they need inventory). However, generally speaking, now is an excellent time to sell estate jewelry given the strong gold and vintage jewelry market.
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Beware of Mail-In Cash for Gold Schemes: Those mail-in envelope services or pop-up hotel “gold buyers” often pay very low prices. They bank on sellers not knowing their items’ true worth. It’s almost always better to deal locally where you can meet the buyer face-to-face, and if you’re unsatisfied, simply walk out with your jewelry. In-person, you have much more control.
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Melt or Not to Melt: Ask the buyer whether your item will be resold or melted. A buyer intending to resell might be able to offer more than just melt value if the piece is desirable. On the flip side, if your jewelry is broken or very outdated, selling for scrap (melt) might be the best you can do – but that’s still fine, as you’re getting paid for the gold content. Consider the melt value as a baseline. It’s good to know that number; if a dealer’s offer is below melt for a common item, you should question why (perhaps they have higher costs, or maybe your weight calculation was off). Ideally, find a buyer who will test and weigh the item in front of you and perhaps even calculate the melt value with you. Transparency helps ensure you’re getting a fair deal.
By following these tips, you’ll walk into any buyer’s store prepared and confident. Knowledge and a little preparation can easily add 10-20% more to the amount you pocket when you sell estate jewelry.
Why Choose Gold King Bullion
If you’re in the Phoenix metro and looking to sell estate jewelry, you’ve likely come across Gold King Bullion. With ten locations across the Valley (covering Phoenix, the East Valley, and West Valley), Gold King Bullion has established itself as a trusted local gold dealer. Here’s what makes Gold King stand out as an excellent place to sell your estate pieces:
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Top Prices Paid: Gold King Bullion is known for offering competitive, fair pricing based on current market values. They update their offers in line with the latest gold and silver prices, so you’re always getting a rate reflective of real-time value. Their philosophy is built on volume and trust – by paying honest prices, they earn repeat business and referrals. Many customers report getting higher offers here compared to other outlets, especially for gold jewelry and scrap. (You can even check their gold dealers in Phoenix resource to see how they compare and what to look for in a dealer.)
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Expert Evaluation and XRF Testing: One of Gold King’s strengths is its investment in advanced testing equipment. At their Tempe location and at least one West Valley location, they offer XRF spectrometry testing using the Thermo Fisher Niton DXL-800 analyzer. This high-tech device uses X-ray fluorescence to non-destructively determine the exact metal composition of your jewelry. In plain terms, it can tell precisely what karat your gold is, or if that white metal is platinum, silver or something else – all within seconds, with no damage or scratches to your item. Customers love this because it ensures accuracy and transparency. When a Gold King Bullion staff member tests your piece with the Niton DXL, you can often see the readout confirming if, say, a ring is 14K (58.5% gold) plus what other metals are present. This level of precision builds trust – you know you’re paid for exactly what you have. The use of such state-of-the-art XRF technology is a big differentiator (most pawn shops, for example, do not have this). It’s worth noting that XRF testing is available on-site at the Tempe store and their West Valley store(s), so if you have a mixed metal item or just want that added confidence, Gold King has you covered.
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Honesty and Reputation: Gold King Bullion has built a strong reputation in the community. They’re a licensed, established business, and you can find testimonials and reviews attesting to their fair dealings (unlike fly-by-night gold buyers). They also emphasize transparency – from clearly posted prices to explaining their process. If you’re curious about the company’s background and values, their About Us page shares that Gold King is locally operated with years of experience in the precious metals industry. When you step into one of their stores, you can expect a professional, pressure-free experience. Their staff will evaluate your items and present you with an offer; if you choose not to sell, they’ll happily return your items – no obligation. This is in stark contrast to some aggressive buyers who might pressure you or use gimmicks.
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Convenience and Service: With 10 locations (more on those below), you’re likely near a Gold King Bullion store anywhere in the Phoenix area. They are open 7 days a week, making it easy to pop in on your schedule. And unlike mailing your jewelry off to an unknown buyer, at Gold King you get immediate payment. Walk in with jewelry, walk out with cash or a check – it’s that simple. They handle all kinds of estate jewelry: from gold and silver pieces to diamonds, coins, and even scrap gold. In fact, even if your jewelry is broken or tangled (common with estate bits and pieces), they will still buy it for its precious metal content. For those wondering if they can sell gold scrap, the answer is yes – Gold King will gladly buy broken chains, single earrings, old class rings, etc., and you might be surprised how much that “junk jewelry” adds up to in cash value (see their dedicated page on selling gold scrap for tips).
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Security and Trust: When selling valuable items, security is important. Gold King Bullion’s locations are all professional retail settings in safe areas. Transactions are discreet and secure; you can feel comfortable bringing in even very expensive pieces. They also handle all necessary paperwork for larger transactions (e.g., providing a bill of sale, etc.). If you’re selling a lot of estate jewelry from an inheritance, they can guide you on any reporting requirements or answer questions you have about the process. Essentially, they make the selling process easy, safe, and transparent, which is exactly what you want when parting with precious items.
In summary, while you have many choices of where to sell, Gold King Bullion combines local convenience with industry expertise and ethical practices. For many Phoenix-area sellers, that mix results in top-dollar offers and peace of mind. It’s always wise to do your own due diligence, but Gold King’s strong reputation and customer-centric approach make them a top contender when you’re ready to sell estate jewelry in Phoenix for a fair price.
Phoenix Metro Locations and Services
One of Gold King Bullion’s strengths is its extensive local presence, which not only boosts convenience but also helps with local SEO (so people searching for a jewelry buyer in various parts of town find them easily). They have ten locations across the Phoenix metro area, ensuring you’re never far from a trusted Gold King store. These locations include: Phoenix, Tempe, Chandler, Mesa, Scottsdale, Gilbert, Peoria, Glendale, Avondale, and Goodyear. Each store is part of the Gold King Bullion family, so you can expect consistent service and pricing at all sites.
For exact addresses and a map of all 10 locations, you can refer to their locations page. Whether you’re in the East Valley or West Valley, there’s likely a Gold King nearby. For example, Tempe and Scottsdale locations serve much of the East Valley clientele, while Glendale, Peoria, Avondale, and Goodyear locations cover the West Valley communities. Even central Phoenix has its own Gold King store for those in the heart of the city.
Each store is staffed with knowledgeable professionals who can evaluate a wide range of items. Gold King doesn’t only deal in gold jewelry – they also handle silver jewelry, platinum pieces, coins, bullion, watches, and even diamonds. So if your estate jewelry collection includes a bit of everything (say, a gold necklace, a sterling silver flatware set, some old coins, etc.), you can bring it all in for appraisal. They will sort and price each category of item. It’s essentially a one-stop shop for selling precious metal items in Phoenix.
Notably, as mentioned earlier, Tempe and the West Valley locations have advanced XRF spectrometers on-site (the Thermo Fisher devices) which means those locations can provide the ultimate test for metal content. But even the stores that may not have a machine on-site still have electronic gold testers and acids to verify karat purity – so every location is equipped to authenticate and appraise your jewelry accurately. If you specifically want the XRF test, you can call ahead and ask which West Valley store has it (often it could be the Glendale or Peoria store, for instance).
Another service Gold King offers is free evaluation and consultation. Maybe you inherited a bunch of items and genuinely don’t know what’s real or what’s valuable. You can bring them to a Gold King store, and they’ll help identify gold vs. costume, diamond vs. cubic zirconia, etc. This is incredibly helpful for those not familiar with jewelry – the staff effectively gives you an appraisal in layman’s terms. And if you decide not to sell certain pieces after hearing the assessment, that’s perfectly fine. There’s no pressure; they’ll hand everything back and even give advice on what might be worth selling elsewhere (for instance, if you have a very specialized antique, they might suggest a specific auction route).
From a local perspective, having physical locations in all these cities also means Gold King Bullion is embedded in the community. They understand Phoenix-area market trends – for example, they know that Southwestern-style jewelry (like Native American sterling/turquoise pieces) often come through estates here, and they can value those or have connections to dealers who appreciate them. They are familiar with the types of jewelry common in Arizona estates, which gives them an edge in evaluation.
Finally, the convenience factor cannot be overstated. Rather than mailing valuables or driving out of state, you can likely drive 10-15 minutes to a Gold King Bullion location, without an appointment, and be done with your selling process in under half an hour. They operate during business hours every day of the week, making it easy to fit into your schedule. Selling locally also means supporting a local business and keeping the commerce within our community.
In summary, when you’re ready to sell estate jewelry in Phoenix, you have a wealth of options, but doing business with a reputable local buyer like Gold King Bullion can make the process smooth, safe, and financially rewarding. Take advantage of the strong gold market, gather up those old trinkets, heirlooms, or inherited pieces, and turn them into something you can use today. With the tips and knowledge from this guide, you’re well prepared to get the best deal possible. And if you choose Gold King Bullion, you’ll be working with one of Phoenix’s most trusted gold buyers, right in your neighborhood.
Ready to unlock the value of your estate jewelry? Visit any of Gold King Bullion’s ten convenient locations across the Phoenix area (Tempe, Phoenix, Chandler, Mesa, Scottsdale, Gilbert, Peoria, Glendale, Avondale, or Goodyear) and get a free, no-obligation appraisal. With fair pricing, expert service, and on-the-spot payment, you’ll see why so many Phoenix residents trust Gold King when it’s time to sell estate jewelry – from inherited treasures to old favorites gathering dust. Stop in any day (we’re open 7 days a week) and turn your estate jewelry into cash, confidently and hassle-free!