They will only get the meltdown value of the weight of the gold or silver. No one seems to care about the stones in the jewelry, or quality of workmanship. I have two gold rings and a gorgeous cameo, both belonged to my mother O”H. 30 – 40 years ago, they cost a nice amount, but today, I am told no one cares about the large smoky topaz, or the black onyx with a centered opal. Only the gold part is of value, the rest would be tossed. Those rigns and cameo were appraised by a reputable jeweler for a nice sum, but even he said he could only offer it on consignment for a week. The gold store to whom I showed the pieces, offered me a FRACTION of their original worth, and that was just for the gold part.
