Where can I sell my vintage jewellery?
There are four realistic routes: direct buy-in at a specialist shop, consignment through a vintage jeweller, auction (online or traditional), and private sale. Which one fits your piece depends on uniqueness, desired speed and how much time you want to invest yourself. The channel comparison describes all four.
What is a fair price for my piece?
A fair price is a market-conform price, and you establish that by placing at least two independent offers side by side — preferably after a free value indication. Differences of thirty per cent between bona fide buyers are normal; bigger gaps usually mean one of the two isn't a specialist.
Do I need to show ID when selling?
Yes. Anyone buying jewellery or precious metal in the Netherlands is legally required to check a valid ID and register the purchase in the second-hand register (opkopersregister). That's protection against handling stolen goods, not distrust of you. A buyer who doesn't ask for it isn't operating properly.
Am I better off with a jeweller or an auction?
For common pieces, direct buy-in at a specialist usually yields a reasonable price fastest. For signed, rare or period-authentic work, an auction or consignment through a specialist shop can bring more — with a longer turnaround and more uncertainty. The channel comparison lays them out side by side without picking a favourite.
Can I auction instead of selling to a buyer?
Yes, and for some pieces it pays off. Auctions work best for signed, rare or period-authentic work where a collector audience is willing to bid above buy-in value. Expect a few weeks to months of turnaround, seller's commission plus buyer's premium, and the possibility a piece falls short of its estimate. For common work, direct buy-in is usually faster and more predictable. The channel comparison describes both routes side by side.
What if I don't know what it is?
Start with a free photo-based value indication. Four shots per piece (top, side, close-up of stones or engraving, macro of the hallmarks) are enough for an initial assessment. From that you'll know whether it's generic or specialist work, and whether a physical valuation is worth pursuing.
Am I obliged to sell after a value indication?
No. An indication is non-binding. Its purpose is to know what you have so you can make an informed decision — keep, remake, insure or sell. We don't sell jewellery ourselves.