Gold Scrap Value Calculator
Work out the melt value of scrap or broken gold from its karat, weight and the live gold spot price — and see what a refiner payout percentage leaves you.
How it works
Pure gold (g) = weight × karat ÷ 24 · Troy oz = grams ÷ 31.1035 · Melt value = pure oz × spot price · Payout = melt × payout%
Only the pure-gold fraction of a piece has metal value: 14K is 14/24 = 58.3% gold, the rest is alloy. Convert that pure weight from grams to troy ounces (31.1035 g each) and multiply by the spot price to get the raw melt value. Buyers and refiners then pay a percentage of that — often 80–95% — to cover refining and profit, so the payout figure is what actually lands in your pocket.
Worked example
A 10 g 14K chain is 10 × 14/24 = 5.83 g of pure gold, or 5.83 ÷ 31.1035 = 0.1875 troy oz. At $2,000/oz that is a $375 melt value; at a 90% refiner payout you would receive about $337.
Frequently asked questions
Why is scrap gold worth less than jewellery?
Scrap is priced purely on metal content, ignoring craftsmanship, brand and gemstones. You also lose a refining margin (the payout percentage), so scrap value is a floor, not a resale price.
Where do I find the spot price?
Gold spot is quoted per troy ounce on financial sites and updates continuously during market hours. Enter the current figure for an up-to-date estimate.
Does this include gemstones or hallmarks?
No — this is metal-only melt value. Stones, designer marks and collectible pieces can be worth far more intact than melted, so weigh that before scrapping.
Related calculators
Estimate only — actual buyer offers vary with spot price, purity testing and refining fees.