Thinking of letting go of that beautiful ring tucked away in your jewelry box? Auctions can sound appealing—the drama of bidding, the prestige, the possibility of high returns. But here’s the thing: when it comes to selling estate or custom jewelry, auctions aren’t always what they’re cracked up to be.
At Radiam, Inc., in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, we've helped countless clients make smart, confident choices when parting with their jewelry. If you're on the fence about using an auction house, here's why many sellers choose a more direct and personal route.
The Price Might Surprise You
Auction houses often set extremely low, conservative reserve prices. If your item sells at that low end, you may end up with very little—and even more so after they deduct commissions that can range from 10% to 25%.
You Might Wait a While
Selling at auction isn’t instant. You might wait weeks or months for your piece to even go to auction—and that’s before it sells. If you want a quick, stress-free process, you might be left tapping your fingers for quite some time.
It’s Not Exactly Discreet
Auction listings often include detailed descriptions, high-resolution images, and sometimes background info. For sellers who value privacy, especially with heirloom or sentimental pieces, this exposure can be uncomfortable.
There's Always a Risk of No Sale
Let’s say your item has a reserve price. If bidding doesn’t reach that number, your jewelry doesn’t sell. That means wasted time and effort—plus the piece could lose perceived value in future sales.
The Right Buyer May Never See It
Auction houses aren't always tuned into fine or designer jewelry. If your item isn’t placed in front of the right crowd, it won’t get the attention it deserves. That means lower bids and less appreciation for what your piece truly is.
Condition Matters Too Much
Unless your jewelry is in flawless condition or has a rare backstory, auctions might pass it over. Items with even slight wear or missing paperwork often get underbid—or skipped entirely.
Sentimental Pieces Need a Gentle Hand
Jewelry is personal. A wedding band, a vintage necklace, or even an old-school charm bracelet can hold deep memories. Selling something with that kind of emotional weight in a high-pressure auction setting can feel impersonal and overwhelming.
What to Do Instead
We keep it simple at Radiam. Our private consultations offer honest evaluations, fair offers, and a calm environment to help you make the right call—with no pressure. You walk away knowing you’ve made a smart move.
Featured Piece This Week
Take a look at our featured piece: the GIA Certified 4.02 Carat G SI2 Excellent Cut Natural Round Diamond Engagement Ring. With brilliant sparkle, timeless design, and expert craftsmanship, this ring is an ideal choice for those who love classic beauty with bold presence.
If you love unique pieces with character, browse our estate jewelry collection for more one-of-a-kind finds.
Let’s Talk About Value
We’re not just in the business of buying and selling. We're here to guide you. Whether you're curious about what your jewelry is worth or you're ready to sell, visit us in Downtown LA. Or check out our selling guide for more on how our process works.
Skip the guesswork, keep your privacy, and make the most of your jewelry’s value.
