Costume jewellery may not be made of gold or diamonds, but that doesn’t mean it has no value. In fact, some costume jewellery pieces can sell for a surprisingly good price—especially in the UK market, where vintage and designer items are in high demand.
If you’ve got a drawer full of old necklaces, brooches, or earrings that you no longer wear, don’t toss them out. You might be sitting on something valuable. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to sell costume jewellery UK, what buyers look for, and how you can get the best possible return.
What Is Costume Jewellery?
Costume jewellery, also known as fashion jewellery, is made from non-precious materials like glass, plastic, or plated metals. It’s designed to look stylish without costing a lot. These pieces were especially popular in the mid-1900s, often made by big brands like Trifari, Coro, and Sarah Coventry.
Even though the materials aren’t expensive, some pieces are now considered collectible. Older items, designer labels, and unusual styles can attract serious interest from collectors and resellers.
Why Some Costume Jewellery Is Valuable
Not every piece is worth a lot—but some definitely are. The value depends on a few key things:
- Age – Older pieces (especially from the 1920s to 1970s) can fetch higher prices.
- Brand – If the item was made by a known designer, it may be in demand.
- Style – Bold, unique, or art deco designs often attract attention.
- Condition – Items in good condition, with stones intact and minimal wear, are more valuable.
- Rarity – Limited-edition or hard-to-find pieces can be worth more.
If you’re not sure what you have, take a few clear photos and compare your items online. You might find that a brooch you thought was junk is selling for £40 or more.
Where to Sell Costume Jewellery in the UK
There are several ways to sell costume jewellery UK, but not all are equal. Here’s a breakdown:
Online Platforms
You can list pieces on sites like eBay, Etsy, or Vinted. This gives you access to a wide audience, but it also takes time and effort. You’ll need good photos, clear descriptions, and patience to deal with buyers and returns.
Local Markets or Car Boot Sales
These can be fun and quick, but people usually expect to pay very low prices. Not ideal if you’re trying to maximize your return.
Antique or Vintage Shops
Some shops will buy vintage jewellery outright or sell it on your behalf. However, they’ll usually take a commission or offer trade prices below full value.
Sell Directly with Antique Cash Monkey
Looking for a stress-free option? At Antique Cash Monkey, we make it easy to sell costume jewellery UK. Whether you have a few pieces or an entire collection, we offer:
- Free jewellery valuation – Just send us pictures and basic info
- No fees, no hassle – We give you a clear, honest offer
- Fast payment – No long wait times
- Fully insured shipping – Send your items with peace of mind
You don’t need to know if your piece is valuable—we’ll assess it for you. Our team has experience with vintage, designer, and collectible costume jewellery, so you can be sure you’re getting a fair price.
Tips to Maximize Your Return
Before you sell, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t clean the jewellery too much – Over-cleaning can damage it or remove original finishes.
- Group similar items together – Sets or matching styles often sell for more.
- Keep the original boxes if you have them – These can add value.
- Be honest about condition – Even broken pieces may have value, but always describe them accurately.
Final Thoughts
Costume jewellery is more than just “cheap bling.” It’s part of fashion history—and for the right buyer, it can be a treasure. Whether your jewellery is vintage, designer, or just unique, there’s a strong market for it here in the UK.
If you’re ready to sell costume jewellery UK, don’t wait. Visit www.antiquecashmonkey.co.uk today. Send us photos of your items, and let us help you turn those old pieces into quick, easy cash.
