How Is Used Gold Valued?

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Last updated a: 04/29/2026

Discover the 5 Factors That Determine Its Value

If you're thinking about selling used gold, it's natural to want to know how much your piece is worth and how the price is calculated.

Gold valuation doesn’t depend only on weight. There are several factors that influence the final value, such as the purity of the gold, the type of item, its condition, and the current gold price on international markets.

Understanding these criteria helps explain why two seemingly similar pieces can have different values.

In this article, we explain the main factors used to evaluate gold and how the value of each piece is determined at the time of sale.

Factors That Determine the Value of Gold

1. Type of item

The price varies depending on the type of piece. Some items may have higher value, such as gold coins like the British Sovereign.

Type of item

2. Gold purity

This depends on the purity of the gold, measured in karats. 24-karat gold is the highest purity, corresponding to 999.9 fineness.

In Portugal, unlike much of the rest of Europe, it is common to find pieces with a purity of 19.2 karats (800 fineness). 19.2-karat gold is also known as “800 gold” or “Portuguese gold.”

There are also pieces with lower purity, and therefore lower value.

Gold purity

3. Condition

The condition of the item can also affect its value. Is it broken or damaged? We still buy it.

Condition

4. Weight of the gold

The value depends on the weight of the gold in the piece. The more gold it contains, the more you will receive.

Weight of the gold

5. Gold market price

Gold is a commodity traded daily on international markets, with constant price fluctuations. The current gold price and its variations directly influence the value offered. Check the latest gold price.

Gold market price

Visit our branches in Amadora, Almada, Benfica, Moscavide, Mem Martins, and Cascais – evaluations for sale are free.

You must bring identification to sell.

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