Gold has long been valued as both a tangible asset and a symbol of long-term security. Whether you are considering selling inherited gold, investing for the future, or simply want to understand how the gold market works in the UK, knowing how to buy and sell gold properly is essential.
At Burlingtons Ltd., we specialise in the professional valuation and private purchase of gold and gold items, offering a discreet, expert-led alternative to auction houses and online platforms. This guide explains how the process works, what affects the value of gold, and how to make informed decisions, whether you are buying gold for investment or getting ready to sell.
How to Buy Gold
Understanding how to buy gold in the UK begins with deciding how you want to access the gold market. Broadly, gold can be purchased either as a physical asset or through market-based investments, and the process differs slightly depending on which route you choose.
When buying physical gold, the process typically involves selecting a reputable dealer, choosing the form of gold you wish to purchase, and paying a price based on the current market rate, purity, and weight. Buyers should ensure that any physical gold comes with proper hallmarks or certification and consider secure storage and insurance once the purchase is complete.
Choosing to Buy Online or In-Person
Those looking to buy gold online often choose market-linked options that track the price of gold without providing physical ownership. These purchases are made through regulated platforms or investment providers and allow for quicker buying and selling.
While this approach offers convenience and liquidity, it does not provide direct control over a tangible asset. Buying tangible gold, in person, allows for inspection, verification, and expert discussion, which is often essential when making significant investments.
Whichever route you choose, understanding fees, ownership terms, and long-term objectives is essential. Taking professional advice can help ensure that the way you buy gold aligns with your investment goals and risk appetite.
The Types of Gold You Can Buy
There are several types of gold available to UK buyers, each suited to different investment preferences:
- Gold bars and ingots, favoured for their high purity and straightforward valuation
- Gold bullion, which includes bars and coins priced closely to the live gold market rate
- Gold coins, which are often VAT-free in the UK and attractive to both investors and collectors
- Paper gold, which are certificates or funds that mirror the price of gold without physical ownership
- Gold shares and gold stocks, which are typically investments in mining companies or gold-backed businesses
Each type of gold carries different costs, risks, and practical considerations. Physical gold requires storage and security, while market-based options depend more heavily on financial market performance. Understanding these distinctions is key to making an informed decision.
How to Ensure the Gold You are Buying is Genuine
When buying gold in the UK, authenticity is essential. Genuine gold should be clearly identifiable and supported by proper verification, particularly for higher-value purchases. Always look for hallmarks or official certification, which confirm purity and authenticity. Buying from reputable dealers is equally important, as established sellers are transparent about sourcing and pricing and stand behind what they sell. Clear documentation, such as receipts or certificates, helps support both authenticity and future resale.
For high-value items, independent verification from a qualified specialist can provide added reassurance.
What You Should Know About the Gold Industry and Standards
Understanding the wider gold industry helps both buyers and sellers make more informed decisions. From global standards and pricing influences to environmental considerations, these factors shape how gold is valued, traded, and trusted in the UK and internationally.
LBMA-Certified Gold
LBMA-certified gold refers to gold that meets the standards set by the London Bullion Market Association, the global authority overseeing bullion trading. Gold bars on the LBMA Good Delivery List meet strict requirements for purity, weight, and production standards.
For investors, LBMA certification offers reassurance around authenticity, quality, and liquidity. While not all gold items require LBMA status, it is particularly relevant for bullion-grade gold purchased for investment purposes.
Recycled Gold
Recycled gold is gold that has been refined and reused from existing sources, such as jewellery, electronic components, or industrial waste. Importantly, recycled gold is chemically identical to newly mined gold and retains the same purity and value. For buyers and sellers, recycled gold plays an increasingly important role in the modern gold market, supporting sustainability without compromising quality.
How the Global Mining Industry Affects Gold Prices
Gold prices are influenced by global mining output, production costs, and geopolitical factors affecting supply. When mining output decreases or costs rise, gold prices may increase as supply tightens.
However, mining is only one factor. Currency strength, inflation, and investor demand all play significant roles in shaping the gold market.
Investing in Gold
Gold investment appeals to those seeking stability, diversification, and long-term value preservation. Understanding your options is key to investing wisely.
What Makes Gold a Safe Investment?
Gold is tangible, finite, and globally recognised. It is not tied to a single economy and has historically performed well during periods of uncertainty, making it a popular choice for investors seeking balance within their portfolios. This makes it an excellent investment and asset to have on hand to sell.
What You Need to Know Before You Sell
Selling gold can be straightforward when handled correctly, but valuations and outcomes can vary widely depending on where and how you sell. Understanding the process ensures you achieve a fair result without unnecessary risk or pressure.
Why Your Local Gold Valuation Might Differ From Online Estimates
Online gold calculators are often based on weight alone and use headline market prices that don’t account for purity, craftsmanship, or demand. Local valuations may differ because professional buyers consider:
- Gold purity and hallmarks
- Condition and wear
- Whether an item has collectable or antique value
- Current market demand beyond melt value
A detailed, in-person assessment often reveals value that automated tools simply cannot identify.
What Happens to the Value of Gold During Inflation?
Gold is widely regarded as a hedge against inflation. When currencies weaken or markets fluctuate, gold often retains or increases its value. For sellers, this can mean that periods of inflation present favourable opportunities to sell, particularly for bullion, coins, and high-purity gold items.
What Really Determines the Value of Gold?
Understanding what contributes to the value of gold can significantly affect the outcome when selling.
Vintage or Antique Gold
Antique and vintage gold items may be worth considerably more than their scrap value. Factors such as age, craftsmanship, rarity, and provenance can elevate a piece beyond its gold content alone. In some cases, melting an item would destroy its true value.
Why Broken or Damaged Gold Still Has Value
Broken chains, damaged rings, and incomplete items still retain value based on their gold content. In some cases, specialist buyers may also recognise restoration or resale potential beyond scrap value.
How Our Professional Gold Valuations Work
While we cannot offer a look into how every gold buyer buys and assesses gold, we can reassure you that our valuation process is designed to be transparent and reassuring:
- Initial Contact: You share details or images of your gold items, and we determine whether a home valuation is appropriate
- In-Person Valuation: Our expert travels to your home to personally assess your items
- Offer and Payment: All offers are based on live market conditions and item-specific factors, and if you choose to proceed, payment is made instantly
This approach avoids pressure, hidden fees, and the long delays associated with auction houses.
Why Choose Us to Sell Gold with Confidence?
Burlingtons Ltd. offers a private buying service designed for discretion, accuracy, and efficiency. Our clients benefit from:
- Personal valuations when you contact us, wherever you are in the UK
- No fees or hidden charges
- Immediate payment via BACS or another method of your choice
- Over 25 years of market expertise
- Access to an international network of buyers and collectors
There is no uncertainty, no delays, and no unnecessary costs.
Get an Expert Valuation and Sell Your Gold Today
If you are ready to sell gold, gold jewellery, or other high-value gold items, Burlingtons Ltd. is here to help. Our expert-led, no-obligation valuation service ensures you receive clear advice, fair pricing, and immediate payment, without pressure or fees.
Get in touch today to arrange a confidential gold valuation and take the next step with confidence.
