The value of your gold jewellery is calculated by multiplying the weight of pure gold in the piece by the current gold spot price per gram. For a 9ct ring weighing 5 grams, that is 5 x 0.375 = 1.875 grams of pure gold. Multiply that by the live spot price to get the theoretical value. A buyer will pay a percentage of this to cover refining costs.
The three things that determine value are: the weight of the piece, the carat (purity) of the gold, and the current market price. Here is how each one works.
What is a gold carat and why does it matter?
Carat measures how much pure gold is in a piece. Pure gold is 24 carat, but it is too soft for everyday jewellery, so it is alloyed with other metals. Most gold jewellery sold in New Zealand is 9ct, which is 37.5% pure gold. Other common purities are 14ct (58.5%), 18ct (75%), and 22ct (91.7%).
The carat is usually stamped on the piece as a three-digit number: 375 for 9ct, 585 for 14ct, 750 for 18ct, 916 for 22ct. A 9ct ring and an 18ct ring of the same weight have very different values because the 18ct ring contains exactly twice as much pure gold.
How much is 9ct gold worth per gram in New Zealand?
9ct gold is 37.5% pure, so its value per gram is 37.5% of the current gold spot price. With gold trading near record highs in NZ dollars in 2026, even small 9ct pieces are worth meaningful amounts. A single 9ct gold earring weighing 2 grams contains 0.75 grams of pure gold.
To get today's figure: look up the current gold spot price per gram in NZD, then multiply by 0.375 for 9ct, 0.585 for 14ct, or 0.75 for 18ct. That gives you the pure gold value per gram of that piece. Buyers pay a percentage of this, typically explained upfront.
Does weight or carat matter more?
Both matter equally - value is weight multiplied by purity. A heavy 9ct piece can be worth more than a light 18ct piece. For example, a 20-gram 9ct chain contains 7.5 grams of pure gold. A 5-gram 18ct ring contains 3.75 grams. The chain is worth more despite being lower carat.
This is why you should weigh everything before forming expectations. Chunky, heavy pieces in lower carats often surprise people with their value.
Does the condition of my gold jewellery affect its value?
No. Condition is irrelevant when selling gold for its metal value. A broken chain, a bent ring, or a single earring is worth exactly the same per gram as an identical piece in perfect condition. Gold is gold regardless of shape.
The only exception is jewellery with collectible or antique value above its metal content. In those cases, selling as a piece may get you more than selling for scrap. We will always flag this if we think it applies.
How do I find out exactly what my gold jewellery is worth in NZ?
The quickest way is a free assessment with us. We test purity, weigh each piece on calibrated digital scales, check the live gold price, and show you the full calculation. You get a no-obligation quote on the spot. If you accept, we pay you by bank transfer the same day.
We come to you anywhere in Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty, or you can come to us – your choice. Get in touch by phone, WhatsApp, or email to arrange a time.
Find Out What Your Items Are Worth
We offer free, no-obligation assessments anywhere in Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty. Same-day bank transfer if you accept.
