Understanding the scrap gold price
If you’re thinking about selling old jewellery or coins, you’ll likely come across the term scrap gold price. But what does it really mean, and why is it different from the live gold price you see online?
This guide explains how scrap pricing works, how it affects people looking to sell gold, and why transparency matters when turning unwanted gold items into money.
We’ll cover:
- What scrap gold actually means
- How the price is calculated
- Why it’s lower than the market rate
- Why honest valuations matter
- Expert insight from our in-house team
What is scrap gold?
Scrap gold refers to gold items that are valued purely for their metal content rather than design or collectable value. This could be:
Broken chains
Odd earrings
Damaged gold rings
Old coins without numismatic premium
Even though they’re not wearable or collectable, they still contain gold that can be melted down and reused.
Expert Insight
“Scrap gold is what we call any piece where the value is purely in the metal itself,” explains our expert. “With the global gold price so high, heavier items that don’t include precious stones or significant age are often worth more for their scrap weight than as jewellery.”
How is scrap gold price calculated?
Three main factors determine how much you’ll receive when you sell your gold online as scrap:
Carat (Purity)
The higher the carat, the more valuable the gold. For example, 18ct is worth twice as much per gram as 9ct.
Weight
Heavier items, such as chunky bracelets or solid gold rings, are worth more than delicate pieces.
Live market price
The global gold market fluctuates daily, and scrap prices follow this trend.
Scrap gold price vs. market price
A common question is why the offer you receive is lower than the “live gold price” displayed on financial websites. Here’s why:
The live price shows the cost of pure gold traded in bulk on global markets.
Scrap gold needs refining, handling, and testing, all of which reduce the price slightly.
The final figure you’re offered is the practical, real-world value after these processes are accounted for.
So if you’re looking to sell your gold online, it’s normal for the offer to be below the spot price.
Why transparency matters
At Vintage Cash Cow, we believe that being upfront about pricing helps build trust. That’s why every quote we give is explained clearly, so you understand exactly how your items were valued.
Transparency is especially important for customers selling scrap, as it turns what can feel like a confusing process into something simple and reassuring.
The Vintage Cash Cow process
Whether you’re selling scrap, coins, or collectable jewellery, our process is designed to be simple:
Request a free selling pack
Secure packaging and free postage included.
Send your items
Fully insured delivery.
Expert appraisal
Every piece is tested for purity, weight, and value.
Receive an offer
Clear, no-obligation, with free returns if you decline.
FAQs about scrap gold
Can I sell a broken gold ring?
Yes, broken items are valued for their scrap content, not appearance.
Do small items like single earrings have value?
Absolutely. Even small amounts add up when melted down.
Is it safe to sell my gold online?
Yes. Every parcel is tracked, insured, and handled by experienced experts.
Why Choose Vintage Cash Cow?
If you’re searching for the best way to sell your gold online, here’s why thousands of people trust us:
- Fair pricing explained clearly
- Expertise in both scrap and collectable value
- Convenience with free packs and postage
- Peace of mind with free returns
Ready to sell your scrap gold?
Broken jewellery, unwanted coins, and old gold rings don’t have to gather dust. Even if it’s damaged or outdated, your gold still holds value.
With Vintage Cash Cow, turning unwanted items into money is quick, simple, and transparent.
👉 Ready to get started? Request your free selling pack today
Our expert
Mark Stevens bio
With a career spanning 40 years, Mark Stevens stands as a leading authority and Vintage Cash Cow's dedicated Gold Expert. His extensive expertise, honed through decades of professional collaboration, international travel to key markets across Europe and the USA, and his role as a trusted Jewellery Expert on ITV1 television production, provides him with unparalleled insight into the world of gold and fine jewellery.