Jewellery is one of the most popular and rewarding categories to buy at online auction in the UK. Prices are typically well below high street retail, the selection is broad, and lot descriptions give you more information than most shop tags ever would.

Here's what you need to know before you start bidding.

What types of jewellery are available at UK auction?

William George jewellery auctions include a wide range of pieces across all budgets:

Fashion and costume jewellery: Earrings, necklaces, bracelets, rings and sets from popular brands and independent designers. High volume, affordable prices, often new or barely worn.

Silver jewellery: Sterling silver and 925 silver pieces including chains, pendants, rings, and bangles. Silver hallmarked UK jewellery is widely available and represents excellent value at auction.

Gold jewellery: 9ct, 18ct and 22ct gold pieces. Condition, weight and hallmark are all listed. Pre-owned gold jewellery at auction is almost always significantly below what you would pay buying new.

Gemstone jewellery: Pieces set with diamonds, sapphires, rubies, emeralds and semi-precious stones. Always check whether stones are described as natural, lab-grown, or simulated.

Vintage and antique jewellery: Victorian, Edwardian, Art Deco, and mid-century pieces. Unique, non-reproducible, and often very good value for what you are getting.

Understanding hallmarks

UK hallmarks are stamped into metal jewellery to confirm its composition. Key marks to recognise:

925 — Sterling silver (92.5% silver)

375 — 9 carat gold (37.5% gold)

585 — 14 carat gold (58.5% gold)

750 — 18 carat gold (75% gold)

PT950 / PT900 — Platinum

Reputable UK auction listings will state the metal type and mark in the lot description. If a listing does not confirm the metal type, ask before bidding on higher-value pieces.

Reading a jewellery lot description

Good jewellery listings include:

Metal type and hallmark — silver, gold carat, platinum

Stone type and origin — natural, lab-created, or simulated (rhinestone, CZ)

Condition — new, pre-owned, or Grade A/B with any noted wear

Measurements and weight — necklace length in cm, ring size, bracelet diameter

Photographs — always look at all provided images, especially for pre-owned pieces

Setting your maximum bid

Before bidding on precious metal jewellery, check the current spot price for silver and gold. For a silver piece, the metal value gives you a floor price — you should expect to pay above that for finished jewellery with design and craft value.

For fashion jewellery, research completed eBay sales for similar pieces to understand market value. Set your maximum bid at what you're happy to pay and let the system do the rest — you often win for less.

Always factor in the buyer's premium before setting your maximum bid.

Is it safe to buy jewellery at auction?

Yes, when you buy from a regulated UK auction platform. William George sources jewellery from UK retailers, estates, and verified vendors. All lots are described accurately, and photographs show the actual item you will receive.

Can I sell jewellery through William George?

Yes. William George accepts jewellery of all types for consignment. Seller commission is 0% — you keep the full hammer price. There are no upfront listing fees. Contact the team to discuss your pieces.

Browse Jewellery at Auction on William George

William George runs regular UK jewellery auctions including silver, gold, gemstone and fashion pieces. New lots are added every week. Browse jewellery auctions or find out how to sell your jewellery with William George.