HOW TO AVOID SCAMS WHEN SELLING GOLD IN PARIS?
Gold buying is a booming market in Paris. With the historical surge in gold prices in 2026, many individuals are looking to sell their jewelry, coins, or gold objects. But with the proliferation of gold dealers and unscrupulous buyers, how can you be sure not to get scammed? Here's everything you need to know before selling your gold in Paris.
THE MOST COMMON SCAMS IN GOLD BUYING
1. Underestimation of weight Some gold dealers use uncalibrated or unapproved scales to weigh your gold. The result: your jewelry "weighs" less than it actually does, and you are paid accordingly. Always demand that the weighing be done in front of you, on a certified scale.
2. Incorrect caratage identification A dishonest buyer may identify your 18-carat gold as 9-carat gold, thus halving its value. The purity test should always be performed in front of you, and the results explained to you.
3. Hidden fees Some dealers advertise an attractive price but then deduct "melting fees," "commissions," or "administrative fees" not mentioned at the outset. The advertised price should be the net price you receive—without any additional fees.
4. Itinerant buyers Beware of buyers who come to your home or operate in temporary markets. Without a physical address or official accreditation, they often disappear after the transaction. You have no recourse in case of a problem.
5. Price disconnected from the actual market rate Some buyers take advantage of sellers' ignorance to offer prices significantly lower than the daily rate. Before selling, check the official gold price from a reliable source and calculate an approximate estimate of your jewelry's value.
HOW TO RECOGNIZE A SERIOUS GOLD BUYER IN PARIS?
A mandatory purchase contract French law requires that a purchase contract be given to the seller at the time of the transaction. This document mentions the description of the items, their weight, their caratage, and the price paid.
The 48-hour right of withdrawal Since 2017, you have a 48-hour right of withdrawal after signing the contract. During this period, you can retrieve your items by returning the amount received.
Weighing and testing in front of you An honest buyer always performs the weighing and purity test in your presence and in front of you. If the weighing and test are not done in front of you—flee.
JEWELER OR GOLD DEALER: WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE FOR YOUR SECURITY?
The difference is fundamental. A professional jeweler like Fremont evaluates your jewelry at its true value—not just by its gold weight. A diamond solitaire, a signed Art Deco ring, or a branded watch can be worth much more than their simple precious metal weight. An anonymous gold dealer, on the other hand, systematically buys by gold weight, applying the maximum discount.
With an authorized jeweler, you also benefit from:
- Gemological expertise for precious stones
- Numismatic appraisal for rare coins
- Personalized advice on whether to sell
- A transaction in a legal and secure environment
AT FREMONT YOUR SECURITY IS OUR PRIORITY
An independent and authorized jeweler in Paris 10 for 35 years, Fremont guarantees you a 100% transparent and secure transaction. Every appraisal is done free of charge in front of you, with certified weighing and purity testing. The net price is paid to you immediately, with no hidden fees or intermediaries.
Our authorization number is displayed in-store and available upon request. You naturally have your 48-hour right of withdrawal for every transaction.
Come see us without an appointment at 1 Boulevard de Magenta, Paris 10—Métro République—Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 6:30 pm.
📞 01 42 08 12 48
At Fremont, jewelers in Paris 10 since 1990, we guarantee transparent appraisal, immediate payment, and professional support. Thousands of clients trust us—do the same.