Experts reveal the best jewellery to sell at auction

Experts reveal the best jewellery to sell at auction

With the price of gold reaching record highs, there’s a lucrative market to be found in jewellery, says associate director of Woolley & Wallis, Marielle Whiting


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19th-century jewellery

 19th-century jewellery
A Regency multi-gem-set gold pendant, of heart-shaped design. Sold for £4,032 from the private collection of the late Michael and Margaret Susands. - Richard Valencia -

Jewellery of this era is having a real moment. Georgian and early-Victorian pieces specifically – often set with old-cut diamonds that are wonderfully irregular and full of character – are rich in both charm and history. Each piece was handmade, usually as a one-off design, so no two items of jewellery are ever quite the same.

Look out for natural pearls, too; they’re no longer commercially fished, meaning what’s available on the market now is finite and will never be replenished. Prices for antique jewellery, and brooches in particular, remain surprisingly reasonable given the craftsmanship and age, making this a brilliant time to buy before the market catches on. While brooches may not be favoured by the masses today, they’re once again finding popularity. Focus on quality and condition – this will stand the test of time.


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Gold jewellery

What jewellery to sell now
A Roberto Coin 18ct-gold mesh necklace, with finely woven yellow-gold links. Sold for £11,340 in July 2025 against an estimate of £3,000-£5,000. - Nick@Gresham-Thompson.uk -

If you’ve got gold pieces tucked away in your jewellery box, there’s no better time than now to let them shine. The price of gold continues to reach record highs [exceeding a high of £3,000 per ounce in October 2025 – its biggest rally since the 1970s], and, because of this, demand remains strong for both vintage and contemporary pieces.

From chunky chains and bracelets to sleek, elegant bangles, this precious metal is hotly sought after by buyers worldwide. Even simple, everyday designs are performing well at auction as collectors and wearers alike look for beautiful, wearable investments. Throughout 2025, our Fine Jewellery sales saw evidence of this trend, with collections of simple gold jewellery reaching up to £5,670, and more substantial, striking designs soaring above their estimates.


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Retro pieces

What jewellery to watch now
A tiger’s eye and 18ct-gold bracelet, c1971, designed by Kutchinsky. Sold for £8,190 in July 2025, exceeding its estimate of £3,500-£4,500. - Richard Valencia -

Nostalgic 1970s and 1980s style may be dominating interiors, but it’s also proving popular in the jewellery market. Keep an eye on bold designs typical of the era – it’s fast becoming a favourite among style-savvy collectors, showing no sign of stopping. Think sculptural forms, vibrant stones, and plenty of personality. Jewellery designers such as Bulgari, Buccellati, Kutchinsky, and Andrew Grima remain highly sought after for their fearless design and impeccable craftsmanship, but even unsigned pieces that capture that era’s bold aesthetic are starting to draw attention. These are jewels with attitude – collectors love that. With sustainability now front of mind for many, there’s a joy to be found in being part of the circular story of jewellery – recycling and reselling treasures from the past, to be loved again.

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