The cost implications of re-using your own gold

For some women, re-using their old gold is hugely important. Capturing a piece of Mum’s old wedding ring, for example, in a new Legacy piece can be as significant as the diamonds and gemstones.

But there is a cost implication to consider, as the process of melting down and refining old gold so that it can be re-used in a fine piece of jewellery, is specialist work. So in each case, the heart and the emotion needs to be balanced carefully with the financial decision.

Before jewellery

After - outer platinum bands with a central band created out of important, existing 18ct gold

The Cost of Using Old Gold

Many, understandably imagine that the cost of re-using old gold will be less expensive than creating a piece with new gold. However, the process of melting down and refining old gold is lengthy, specialist work. The gold must be worked carefully to eradicate all faults and air bubbles so as not to cause brittleness or porosity in the new piece.

The difference in cost comes because new gold has already undergone this process and is therefore, ready to go.

Consider All Options

If your old gold is not emotionally important, then the most cost effective way of creating a new Legacy piece, is to have it created in new precious metal. If you have gold that is of huge sentimental value, then we would recommend creating a design whereby part of your gold can be used, for example, in one of the main settings, or in one of the bands. This does seem to be the perfect compromise for many of our clients.

Before

After - platinum design with a feature 18ct gold setting created out of mum’s engagement ring gold

If you’re interested in exploring design ideas and the possibilities with your own jewellery, then click below. Upload a picture of your jewellery, answer a few questions and we can get started.