The three things that set the value
- Purity. How much pure precious metal is actually in the item, confirmed by XRF assay, not assumed from the hallmark.
- Weight. Measured on calibrated scales to 0.01g, with mixed lots separated by carat first.
- The live market rate. The precious-metal spot price on the day of assessment, prices move continuously, so the rate is the rate on the day.
Your offer is purity × weight × live rate, less the buyer’s margin, and at GoldPaid every figure is shown in a written breakdown. The full method is on how we value gold.
Why the hallmark is only a starting point
A hallmark is a maker’s declaration of intended purity. Real items differ, solder, repairs and mixed alloys change the true content, which is why GoldPaid XRF-assays every item rather than relying on the stamp. See XRF testing explained and the gold hallmark guide.
How we value what you send
Every offer is built from three measurable facts: confirmed purity, accurate weight, and the live precious-metal market rate on the day we assess your items. You see each figure in a written breakdown before you decide anything. See how we value gold and XRF testing explained for the full method.
Common questions
What is the difference between an estimate and a valuation?
An estimate from a photo or a counter glance is a guess. A GoldPaid valuation is built from a measured XRF assay and calibrated weighing against the live rate, shown to you in a written breakdown before you decide.
Does a higher carat always mean more money?
Per gram, yes, higher-carat gold contains more pure metal. But the total offer also depends on weight, so a heavy 9ct piece can be worth more than a tiny 22ct one. The XRF assay and weighing settle it precisely.