What decides what gold and silver are worth?
Three measured facts: the confirmed purity of the metal, its measured weight, and the live precious-metal market on the day of assessment. The weight and purity are priced against that market, with our margin already inside the figure. Condition, brand and age make no difference to a scrap valuation.
- Purity. How much pure precious metal is actually in the item, confirmed by XRF assay, not assumed from the hallmark.
- Weight. Measured 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 the weight and confirmed purity priced against the live precious-metal market, with our margin already inside the figure, and every number is shown in a written breakdown. The full method is on how we value gold.
Purity is expressed as millesimal fineness, the parts of pure metal per thousand. It is the figure that turns a weight into a price, so it is worth knowing where your items sit:
| Metal | Mark | Purity |
|---|---|---|
| 9ct gold | 375 | 37.5% |
| 14ct gold | 585 | 58.5% |
| 18ct gold | 750 | 75.0% |
| 22ct gold | 916 | 91.7% |
| 24ct gold | 999 | 99.9% |
| Sterling silver | 925 | 92.5% |
| Britannia silver | 958 | 95.8% |
| 800 silver | 800 | 80.0% |
| Fine silver | 999 | 99.9% |
Why is a hallmark 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 measured facts: confirmed purity, accurate weight, and the live precious-metal market on the day we test your items, with our margin already inside the figure. 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.
One parcel gets one written figure, itemised piece by piece. Your offer reflects the weight and purity we measure and the live precious-metal market on the day, with our margin already inside the figure, so nothing further is taken off. For coins, watches and signed or collectable pieces, send a photo on WhatsApp first and we will tell you how we would value them before you post anything.
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 weighing, priced against the live precious-metal market for the confirmed purity, 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.
Not the question you had? The full GoldPaid FAQ covers the rest, from postal cover and ID checks to what happens if you decline the offer.
Speak to us before you post
Please send us photos on WhatsApp, and we will help you. We give a rough estimate where possible and arrange postage with you after our conversation. Your final offer follows inspection.