I Inherited Some Jewelry... Now What?

Inheriting jewelry from a loved one can be both meaningful and overwhelming. These pieces often carry deep emotional value, but they may not suit your taste, lifestyle, or current needs. So, what should you do when you’ve inherited rings, necklaces, or other estate jewelry that you’re unsure how to use?

At Charles Koll Jewelry Works, we help clients across San Diego and beyond navigate the process of evaluating, repurposing, or selling inherited jewelry, with sensitivity, honesty, and expert care.

Step One: Take a Deep Breath (and Don’t Rush)

Before doing anything, take time to look through the jewelry you’ve received. You might be surprised by what’s there—hidden gems, antique pieces, or family stories waiting to be uncovered.

It’s important not to make quick decisions or sell anything without understanding its value.

Step Two: Bring It to a Trusted Expert

Inherited jewelry deserves a professional evaluation. At Charles Koll, our estate jewelry services include:

• Free Consultation bring your jewels to us for a no-pressure evaluation of the options we can offer you. Book your appointment here.  
• Appraisals to help you understand the market and sentimental value
• Custom redesigns to transform old heirlooms into something new
• Purchasing estate jewelry or gold if you prefer to sell or trade
• Repair services to restore worn or broken pieces

We’re not a “cash-for-gold” operation. We’re a full-service workshop with over 60 years of experience and a reputation for craftsmanship and integrity.

Step Three: Decide What Feels Right for You

Once we’ve helped you assess your jewelry, there are a few paths forward:

• Repurpose an Heirloom: Turn your grandmother’s diamond brooch into a sleek, modern pendant. Keep the sentiment, update the style.
• Sell with Confidence: If a piece isn’t meaningful to you, we’ll offer a fair and transparent price.
• Trade for Store Credit: Use the value of your inherited jewelry toward a custom design you’ll actually wear and love.

“We see clients all the time who feel unsure about what to do with family jewelry,” says Richard Koll, CEO of Charles Koll Jewelry Works. “Our job is to help them uncover the value, emotional, historical, and financial, and find the right next step. Whether that means restoring, redesigning, or selling, we guide them with care and transparency.”

Let Us Help You Honor the Past—Your Way

If you’ve inherited jewelry and don’t know what to do next, we’re here for you.
Visit us in Sorrento Valley or book a consultation online to explore your options with a team you can trust.

👉 Learn more about our Estate Jewelry Services

👉 Shop our Estate Jewelry Collection