What is mixed metal and Mokume Gane sterling silver jewelry worth?

GREG ARBUTINE

Feb 172 min read

What is mixed metal and Mokume Gane sterling silver jewelry worth? Any sterling silver jewelry that has inlaid metals of copper, brass or gold is definitely going to be worth usually at least double to quadruple or more than just a regular piece of sterling silver jewelry.

The mixing of metal into sterling silver requires a lot more workmanship and design time to craft. Because of the additional processes this adds more cost into the piece which translates into higher market prices. Plus, there are not too many silver artisans, either past or present, who have endeavored to get into this space which also adds to the allure and scarcity of mixed metals collectibility in the marketplace.

The Japanese Mokume Gane metal working technique in particular is even a more rare process that requires the layering sheets of mixed metals in a stack and then scooping out sections and then thinning them all out to create spectacular abstract wavy swirls of metal. These pieces are amongst the most highly coveted by collectors.

Mexican makers of sterling jewelry are some of the most renowned makers of mixed metal jewelry including Antonio Pineda and Los Castillo. There pieces are typically on the higher spectrum of prices in the resale market.

Conclusion: If you are looking to buy or sell mixed metal silver jewelry and you see that is has more than one metal, then as a buyer, expect to pay a lot more. If you are selling mixed metal jewelry, then please make sure not to sell it for scrap silver value, since it could be worth multiple more amounts than that.