Scrap Gold Calculator
From the weight, purity and gold price, estimate the pure gold weight and the recyclable (scrap) value.
Input Data
Results
At a glance:The recyclable value of scrap gold is its pure metal times the gold price. Pure weight = weight × purity%; value = pure weight × price per unit. Use the same weight unit for the item and the price, and convert karats to percent by K ÷ 24 × 100%.
Formula
Pure weight = weight × purity%.
Value = pure weight × price per unit.
$$W_{pure} = W_{scrap} \times \dfrac{purity\%}{100}$$$$Value = W_{pure} \times Price_{per\,unit}$$How to Use
- Enter the scrap gold weight.
- Enter the purity (percent or karat equivalent).
- Enter the per-unit price of pure gold to see the value.
FAQ
Is the scrap value the same as the melt value?
The math is identical — weight × purity × gold price, giving the theoretical value of the pure gold. The difference is that 'scrap value' usually means the cash you actually receive; dealers discount the theoretical melt value to cover refining and handling, so the actual offer is typically a bit lower.
How do I value multiple batches of different karats?
Process each batch separately for accuracy: multiply each batch's weight by its own purity to get its pure gold, sum the pure weights, then multiply by the price. For example, 120g of 18K plus 350g of 9K give 90g and 131.25g pure respectively, total 221.25g, then times the per-gram price.
How do I get a good price?
First compute the theoretical value here as your floor, then get quotes from several dealers. Check whether they base the quote on the 24K price and state the deduction clearly. Stones and non-gold parts are not counted in the pure weight — separate them or ask for a separate quote.
How can I avoid being underpaid when selling scrap gold?
The risk is information asymmetry. Prepare: compute the theoretical floor per item by karat × current pure-gold price; confirm karat and weight (hallmarks like 750 = 18K, 375 = 9K, or a reputable XRF test) and weigh net after removing stones; separate different karats. Shop around: get at least three or four quotes and compare the offer as a percentage of the theoretical value, noting the day's gold price. Mind the details: ask about hidden fees (assay, handling, melting loss), confirm weighing units, and beware 'high quote then knock-down after testing'. Floor + comparison +see clearly details sharply cuts underpayment risk. This tool is only an estimate, not trading advice.
What discount off the theoretical value is reasonable?
No fixed percentage, but understand why the discount exists and the common range. Dealers bear refining cost (alloy melting, assay, loss), price risk (gold may fall before resale) and operating cost (rent, labour, profit), so the offer below the pure-gold value is normal business. In practice, offers around 70%–90% of the theoretical melt value are common — nearer 90%+ for easy items like bars and high-karat gold, more discount for complex low-karat jewellery. Judge by computing the floor, comparing dealers' percentages, and being wary of outliers clearly below peers (e.g. 50%–60%). Watch the net: a 90% quote with extra fees may be lower net. The discount is normal; the point is to find the fair market level via comparison and see all hidden charges. This tool is only an estimate, not trading advice.
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References
Content review: Calculatorism Finance Team. Results are for reference only; please refer to the relevant authorities for the official figures.