Silver hallmarks explained: How to identify and understand UK silver hallmarks
Learn how to identify UK silver hallmarks, understand what they mean and tell sterling silver from silver plate with our practical guide.
How we train the next generation of appraisers
Learn about the Academy - our in house appraiser training programme at Vintage Cash Cow. We combine expertise and tech to value items in the best way.
When was gold discovered?
When was gold discovered? Trace its earliest known use in human history through to the famous gold rushes of the 1800s that reshaped entire nations for good.
What is gold bullion?
What is gold bullion? Discover how bars and coins differ from jewellery, how purity is set, and whether investment gold qualifies for VAT relief in the UK.
What is yellow gold?
What is yellow gold? Discover how its colour is made, why carat affects the shade, and how it compares to white gold and rose gold in everyday jewellery.
What is the melting point of gold?
What is the melting point of gold? Discover the exact temperature, how purity affects it, and why it matters for refining, repairs and recycling old jewellery.
Is gold a metal?
Is gold a metal? Find out what makes it one, where it sits on the periodic table, and why its chemical stability matters for jewellery and value over time.
Is platinum better than gold?
Is platinum better than gold? Compare durability, weight, upkeep and value to see which precious metal might suit your jewellery or collection best overall.
What is white gold?
White gold isn't a separate metal. Discover how it's made, how it compares to platinum and silver, and why it sometimes needs rhodium replating over time.
Is gold magnetic?
Is gold magnetic? Find out why pure gold doesn't stick to a magnet, what a magnet test on jewellery can show, and why it isn't proof on its own.
How is gold weighed?
Curious how gold is weighed before it's valued? Discover the scales, units and purity checks used to work out what your gold jewellery is really worth.
Gold filled vs gold plated vs vermeil - what's the difference?
Gold filled, gold plated or vermeil? Learn the key differences between these jewellery types, how to spot the hallmarks, and what it means for value.