What Types of Gold Can You Sell in Brisbane? Jewellery, Bullion & Coins Explained

Selling gold in Brisbane can be a straightforward way to unlock value from jewellery, bullion, coins, or even broken pieces you no longer use. However, many sellers are unsure which items are accepted, how they are assessed, and what determines the final payout.

In reality, most gold items can be sold — provided they contain genuine gold content. From high-karat jewellery and investment-grade bullion to old gold and collectible coins, each category is valued differently based on purity, weight, condition, and current market price.

This guide explains exactly what types of gold you can sell in Brisbane, how each item is assessed, and what factors influence the amount you receive — so you can approach the process with clarity and confidence.

Types of Gold You Can Sell in Brisbane:

Gold Jewellery (Broken or Intact)

Gold jewellery is one of the most commonly sold items in Brisbane. Buyers typically accept rings, necklaces, chains, bracelets, bangles, earrings, and even single or mismatched pieces. Condition does not usually prevent a sale — broken clasps, snapped chains, or damaged items still retain value because the gold content itself is what matters most.

The amount you receive depends on three primary factors: purity, weight, and current market price.

Purity (Karat)

Gold jewellery is measured in karats (k), which indicates the percentage of pure gold in the piece:

• 9k – 37.5% gold
• 14k – 58.5% gold
• 18k – 75% gold
• 22k – 91.6% gold
• 24k – 99.9% gold

Higher karat jewellery contains more pure gold and therefore commands a higher intrinsic value.

Weight (Net Gold Content)

Professional buyers weigh jewellery using calibrated digital scales. Stones, clasps, springs, and non-gold components are removed when necessary so that only the actual gold content is calculated. This ensures you are paid accurately based on genuine gold weight.

How Jewellery Is Valued

Gold jewellery is generally valued based on its melt value (intrinsic gold content), unless the piece has significant brand or designer demand.
The simplified formula looks like this:

Net Weight × Purity % × Current Gold Rate = Base Value

From there, buyers apply their payout percentage based on operating costs and market conditions.

Does Condition Matter?

For most standard jewellery, condition has little impact if the piece is being purchased for melt value. Even tangled chains, single earrings, or outdated designs still hold value.

However, branded or luxury pieces may carry resale value beyond their gold weight if they are in good condition and accompanied by original documentation.

Gold Coins (Investment & Collectible)

Gold coins are one of the most versatile types of gold you can sell in Brisbane. They fall into two main categories: investment-grade bullion coins and collectible (numismatic) coins. Understanding the difference is important because it affects how they are valued.

Investment-Grade Gold Coins

Bullion coins are produced primarily for investment purposes and are valued mainly on their gold content. These coins typically have:

• Clearly stamped weight (e.g., 1 oz, ½ oz)
• High purity (usually 99.9% or 24k)
• Official mint markings

Common examples include government-issued coins that trade close to the live gold spot price.

When selling bullion coins, valuation is straightforward:

Gold Weight × Current Spot Price = Base Value

Because these coins are widely recognised and easy to verify, they are highly liquid and generally attract competitive payouts.

Collectible or Numismatic Coins

Numismatic coins are different. Their value may exceed their gold content because of:

• Rarity
• Age
• Historical significance
• Limited mintage
• Condition and grading

In these cases, the gold weight is only part of the equation. A professional buyer may assess both the intrinsic gold value and the collector demand before making an offer.

If you suspect your coin may have collectible value, it’s important to have it properly evaluated rather than selling it purely for melt value.

Condition and Authentication

For bullion coins, minor cosmetic wear usually has little impact if authenticity can be verified.

For collectible coins, however, condition can significantly influence price. Coins that are well-preserved or professionally graded may achieve higher resale value.

Why Gold Coins Are Popular to Sell

• Easy to value (especially bullion coins)
• Strong resale market
• High purity
• Clear weight and authentication

Whether you hold coins for investment or inheritance reasons, Brisbane buyers typically accept both bullion and collectible gold coins.

Gold Bullion (Bars & Investment Gold)

Gold bullion is one of the most straightforward types of gold to sell in Brisbane. Unlike jewellery, bullion is produced specifically for investment purposes and is valued almost entirely on its purity and weight.

Bullion is typically available in the form of bars, ingots, or minted wafers, ranging from small 1-gram pieces to larger 1-kilogram bars.

Purity and Standardisation

Most gold bullion is refined to 99.9% purity (24 karat). Because purity is standardised and clearly stamped on the product, valuation is more transparent compared to jewellery.

Common markings you’ll see include:

• Weight (e.g., 1 oz, 100g, 1kg)
• Purity (999 or 999.9)
• Refiner’s hallmark

Recognised refiners and mints can make resale easier, as their products are widely accepted in the market.

How Bullion Is Valued

Bullion pricing closely follows the live gold spot price. Since it contains no stones, alloys, or design components, valuation is straightforward:

Weight × Live Gold Price = Base Value

Buyers then apply a small margin depending on market conditions and demand.

Because of its high purity and liquidity, bullion usually attracts a higher payout percentage compared to standard gold jewellery.

Coins vs Bars

Investment-grade gold coins are often treated similarly to bullion bars if they are valued primarily for gold content rather than collectability. Popular investment coins are assessed based on:

• Gold weight
• Purity
• Current spot price

However, rare or limited-edition coins may carry additional numismatic value beyond their melt value.

Why Bullion Is Attractive to Sell

• Clear market-linked pricing
• High purity
• Easy verification
• Strong liquidity
• Minimal condition impact

For sellers who want a transparent transaction based purely on market rates, bullion is one of the most predictable gold items to sell.

If you’re selling investment-grade bullion, it’s also important to understand the applicable regulations. Read our guide to tax rules for buying and selling gold bullion in Brisbane for a detailed overview.

Gold Watches (Luxury & Solid Gold Timepieces)

Gold watches can carry significant resale value in Brisbane, but unlike standard jewellery, they are often assessed on more than just gold weight.

A gold watch may be valued based on:

• Gold content (if solid gold)
• Brand reputation
• Model demand
• Condition
• Original box and documentation

Solid Gold vs Gold-Plated

The first step in valuation is determining whether the watch is:

• Solid gold (e.g., 18k case and/or bracelet)
• Gold-plated or gold-filled

Solid gold watches contain measurable intrinsic gold value. Gold-plated watches, however, contain only a thin layer of gold and are generally valued based on brand demand rather than gold weight.

Brand Value and Market Demand

Luxury brands can significantly increase resale value beyond melt price. Certain manufacturers are known for strong secondary market demand.

If the watch is from a recognised luxury brand, its resale value may exceed the intrinsic gold content due to collectability and craftsmanship.

In these cases, buyers evaluate:

• Model reference number
• Production year
• Movement condition
• Service history
• Market demand

Condition Matters More Here

Unlike scrap jewellery, condition plays a larger role with watches.

Factors that can increase value:

• Working movement
• Minimal wear
• Original box and papers
• Authentic components

Even if the watch is damaged, it may still hold gold value if the case or bracelet is solid gold.

How Gold Watches Are Valued

There are generally two valuation paths:

• Melt Value – Based on net gold weight and purity
• Resale Value – Based on brand, demand, and collectability

A reputable buyer will assess both to determine the most accurate offer.

Why Watches Require Specialist Evaluation

Gold watches sit between jewellery and collectibles. Because of this, selling to a knowledgeable buyer ensures:

• Proper gold testing
• Brand authentication
• Fair resale assessment
• Transparent pricing explanation

If you’re unsure whether your watch holds collectible value or just gold value, a professional appraisal is essential.

Old Gold and Broken Jewellery

Many people assume damaged or outdated gold items have little value. In reality, old gold and broken jewellery are among the most commonly sold items in Brisbane because value is based on gold content — not appearance.

If you have tangled chains, snapped bracelets, single earrings, outdated designs, or inherited pieces you no longer wear, they may still hold strong intrinsic value.

Condition Does Not Reduce Gold Value

When gold is purchased for its melt value, buyers focus on:

• Purity (karat)
• Net gold weight
• Current market price

Whether a necklace is broken or a ring is missing a stone usually makes little difference if the item is being refined for its gold content.

This means:

• Broken clasps
• Bent rings
• Mismatched earrings
• Worn-out settings

…can still generate a competitive payout.

How Old Gold Is Processed

Professional buyers carefully:

1. Test the purity using approved methods
2. Separate non-gold components (stones, springs, clasps)
3. Weigh the net gold content using calibrated digital scales

Payment is then calculated based on actual gold weight and the live market rate.

Transparency during this process is critical. A reputable buyer will explain the breakdown clearly so you understand how the final figure is reached.

Inherited or Unwanted Jewellery

Old gold often includes inherited pieces or items that no longer match personal style. Even if the design feels outdated, the gold itself retains market value.

Instead of leaving unused pieces in a drawer, many Brisbane sellers choose to convert them into cash while gold prices are favourable.

If you’re selling inherited gold, it’s also important to understand the applicable regulations. Read our guide to sell inherited gold in Australia without paying too much tax for a detailed overview.

Why This Category Is So Popular

• High resale demand
• No need for perfect condition
• Quick and simple valuation
• Market-based pricing

Old gold and broken jewellery remain one of the easiest and most practical ways to access the value of unused assets.

Antique Gold and Collectible Pieces

Not all gold is valued purely for its melt content. Antique jewellery, historical items, and collectible gold pieces may carry value beyond their weight and purity due to craftsmanship, rarity, or historical significance.

In these cases, the gold content is only one part of the overall valuation.

What Makes Antique Gold Valuable?

Antique and estate pieces are often assessed based on:

• Age and historical era
• Craftsmanship and design style
• Maker’s marks or hallmarks
• Rarity and condition
• Provenance (documented history of ownership)

Jewellery from certain periods or signed by recognised makers can attract interest from collectors, which may increase value beyond melt price.

Melt Value vs Collectible Value

There are two possible valuation paths:

1. Melt Value – Based strictly on gold weight and purity.
2. Collectible or Resale Value – Based on demand, rarity, and craftsmanship.

A knowledgeable buyer will determine whether the piece should be valued solely for its gold content or whether it qualifies for resale at a premium.

Selling a potentially collectible item for melt value alone may mean missing additional value.

Medals, Heirlooms and Unique Items

Gold medals, commemorative items, and inherited heirlooms may also fall into this category. Even if they are not widely recognised, they should be properly evaluated before being treated as standard old gold.

Professional testing ensures:

• Accurate purity assessment
• Authentication of genuine gold content
• Careful handling of delicate or historical pieces

Why Specialist Evaluation Matters

Antique and collectible gold requires a more detailed review than standard jewellery. An experienced buyer will:

• Assess hallmarks carefully
• Evaluate potential collector demand
• Explain valuation differences clearly

For sellers in Brisbane, this ensures no additional value is overlooked simply because an item appears old or unusual.

What Gold Cannot Be Sold (or Has Limited Value)

While most genuine gold items can be sold in Brisbane, not every gold-coloured item holds significant resale value. Understanding the difference can prevent confusion and set realistic expectations before visiting a buyer.

Gold-Plated Items

Gold-plated jewellery contains only a very thin layer of gold over a base metal such as brass or steel. Because the gold content is minimal, these items usually have little to no melt value.

Common examples include:

• Fashion jewellery
• Costume accessories
• Plated watches
• Decorative ornaments

Although they may appear similar to solid gold, their intrinsic value is significantly lower.

Gold-Filled Jewellery

Gold-filled items contain more gold than plated pieces, but the gold layer is still bonded to a base metal core. While they may have some value, it is generally much lower than solid gold jewellery.

Testing is required to determine the actual gold content.

Counterfeit or Replica Bullion

Investment-grade bullion should always carry clear markings indicating weight and purity. If a bar or coin cannot be authenticated, its resale value may be limited or rejected altogether.

Reputable buyers verify authenticity before proceeding with valuation.

Non-Gold Components

Items that contain:

• Stainless steel cores
• Tungsten inserts
• Heavy stone settings
• Non-gold internal springs

…will be separated before valuation. Only the actual gold portion contributes to the payout.

Legal and Compliance Considerations

All legitimate gold transactions in Queensland require identification and compliance with second-hand dealer regulations. Items suspected to be stolen or unlawfully obtained cannot be purchased.

This protects both the seller and the business.

Why This Section Matters

Understanding what qualifies as sellable gold helps you:

• Avoid unrealistic expectations
• Identify solid gold vs plated items
• Prepare for accurate testing
• Approach the sale with confidence

If you are unsure whether an item is solid gold, professional testing can quickly confirm its composition.

How Gold Is Valued in Brisbane

No matter what type of gold you are selling — jewellery, bullion, coins, or old pieces — valuation follows a consistent formula. Understanding this process helps you evaluate offers with clarity and confidence.

Gold value is determined by three measurable factors:

• Purity (karat)
• Net gold weight
• Current market price

1. Current Gold Spot Price

Gold is traded internationally in US dollars. The live spot price reflects global supply, demand, investor activity, and economic conditions.

Because gold is purchased locally in Australian dollars, the AUD/USD exchange rate also affects final payouts in Brisbane.

Professional buyers monitor both the international spot price and currency movement to ensure accurate local valuation.

Gold prices fluctuate daily based on global supply, demand, and macroeconomic conditions. According to the World Gold Council, gold market data and volatility metrics are widely used to assess price movement and investment trends.

2. Purity (Karat Percentage)

Gold jewellery and other items are rarely 100% pure. The karat system indicates the percentage of gold contained in the item:

• 9k – 37.5% gold
• 14k – 58.5% gold
• 18k – 75% gold
• 22k – 91.6% gold
• 24k – 99.9% gold

Higher purity means more intrinsic gold value per gram.

3. Net Gold Weight

Before calculating the value, buyers determine the actual gold weight.

This may involve:

• Removing stones or non-gold components
• Separating mixed metals
• Weighing the item on calibrated digital scales

Only the pure gold portion contributes to the final payout.

The Valuation Formula

The simplified calculation looks like this:

Net Weight × Purity % × Current Gold Price = Base Gold Value

After calculating intrinsic value, buyers apply a payout percentage based on business costs, refining margins, and market conditions.

Because bullion is typically 99.9% pure and easier to verify, it often receives a higher payout percentage compared to mixed-alloy jewellery.

Why Understanding This Matters

When you understand how gold is valued, you can:

• Compare offers more effectively
• Recognise fair market-aligned pricing
• Avoid confusion during weighing and testing
• Make informed selling decisions

Transparency in this process is what separates professional gold buyers from general second-hand dealers.

Where to Sell Gold in Brisbane

Once you understand what type of gold you have and how it is valued, the next step is choosing the right type of buyer. In Brisbane, sellers typically consider three main options: specialist gold buyers, pawn shops, and jewellers.

Each operates differently, which can influence your final payout.

Specialist Gold Buyers

Specialist gold buyers focus specifically on purchasing precious metals. Their pricing models are usually directly linked to the live gold market.

Typical characteristics:

• Market-based pricing
• Transparent weighing and purity testing
• Higher transaction volumes
• Clear explanation of payout calculations

Because their business revolves around gold transactions, they often provide competitive rates aligned with current spot prices.

Pawn Shops

Pawn shops operate on a loan-based model. When selling gold outright, pricing may be structured more conservatively due to its broader second-hand business model.

Considerations:

• Offers may be lower than those of specialist buyers
• Primary focus is short-term lending
• Gold may not be their core expertise

While convenient, payout percentages may vary.

Retail Jewellers

Retail jewellers primarily focus on selling new jewellery. Some may buy gold, but purchasing is often secondary to their retail operations.

In many cases:

• They may be selective about what they accept
• Offers may focus on resale potential rather than melt value
• Pricing structures can vary

Choosing the Right Option

When comparing buyers, consider:

• Do they clearly explain how value is calculated?
• Is testing performed in front of you?
• Is pricing linked to the live market rate?
• Are there any hidden fees or deductions?

An informed comparison ensures you choose a buyer that aligns with your expectations for transparency and fairness.

Why Choose Gold Buyers Brisbane to Sell Different Types of Gold?

Gold Buyers Brisbane provides transparent, market-linked valuations for jewellery, bullion, coins, and old gold items. Each piece is assessed based on purity, net weight, and the current gold spot price to ensure accurate and consistent pricing.

All testing and weighing are conducted using professional methods, with clear explanations provided throughout the process. This approach allows sellers to understand how their gold is valued before making a decision.

Located in Brisbane, the business focuses on straightforward transactions, compliance with Queensland regulations, and maintaining a professional standard of service for both first-time and returning sellers.

Conclusion

Brisbane sellers have more options than ever when it comes to turning cash for gold. From jewellery and bullion to coins, old pieces, and collectible items, most genuine gold products hold measurable value based on purity, weight, and current market conditions.

Understanding the difference between solid gold, plated items, investment-grade bullion, and antique pieces helps ensure you approach the selling process with realistic expectations. It also allows you to compare offers confidently and recognise transparent, market-aligned pricing.

By knowing how gold is assessed and where to sell it, you can make informed decisions and maximise the return on items you no longer need.

About the Author

Raj, Specialist at Gold Buyers Brisbane

With deep expertise in the gold buying industry, Raj leads Gold Buyers Brisbane’s mission to provide fair and transparent cash offers for gold. Committed to customer satisfaction, Raj ensures clients receive trusted valuations and seamless transactions, leveraging extensive knowledge of the local market and current gold trends.

About the Company

Gold Buyers Brisbane is a premier gold buying service based in Brisbane, dedicated to offering the highest cash payouts for gold. With a focus on trust, transparency, and expert evaluations, Gold Buyers Brisbane helps customers get the best value for their gold items quickly and securely. Serving the Brisbane community, the company blends industry expertise with customer-centric service to make gold selling a confident and rewarding experience.