According to Cynthia Findley Antiques, there are many reasons you might want to downsize your inheritance. There will inevitably be some pieces that have no sentimental value to you, and do not fit your style. You may also run into the problem of storage, which can be a challenge. If you’re looking to sell off older estate jewellery, and unsure of how to get the best price, hire an appraiser.
Downsizing: Some opt to downsize an estate before they pass. This serves a few purposes, it can help the person who owns the estate to consolidate the wealth and build a bigger inheritance for family. Those assets essentially get re-allocated in other ways. Appraisers help these people get a fair price for their assets.
Inheritance: When a close family member passes, they sometimes leave an inheritance for you. Not everyone is prepared to keep vintage engagement rings. Either they do not have the space, or the jewellery does not fit the style. Appraisers help you sell off what you don’t want from the collection, so you can use the money to create a new tradition for your own family.
Explorer: If you’ve ever gone to an estate sale, you’ve probably found more than a few pieces you’ve wanted to take home. Some of us actually do, and an appraiser is useful in identifying antique engagement rings and assessing value. Who knows, you might have stumbled across something truly valuable.
For pieces that are less valuable, but still sentimental, you might consider re-using the metals. You can melt older pieces and have them remade as custom designs to start your own traditions.
