
What to Do with Jewelry Found in Your Home After a Fire
Jewelry Appraisal, Repair & Buying Services in Santa Rosa
In the wake of a fire, homeowners often face the daunting task of sifting through what remains of their personal belongings. For many, finding damaged or charred jewelry can be both an emotional and financial challenge. With recent devastating wildfires in California, many families are confronting this difficult situation.
If you've discovered jewelry in your home after a fire, here’s what you need to know about assessing, restoring, repurposing, or even selling your pieces.
Step 1: Assess the Condition of the Jewelry
Fire can have varying effects on different types of metals and gemstones. Here’s what to look for:
Gold and Silver Jewelry – Precious metals can melt or warp under extreme heat, but they often retain value and can be refined or restored.
Diamonds and Gemstones – Some stones may survive fires but could suffer fractures or clarity issues.
Pearls and Opals – These delicate, organic stones are highly susceptible to heat damage and may not be salvageable.
Watches and Heirlooms – The internal mechanisms may be destroyed, but gold, platinum, or gemstone components might still be recovered.
Avoid cleaning fire-damaged jewelry at home. Residual soot and heat exposure may have altered the integrity of the materials—professional inspection is essential.

Step 2: Consult a Professional Jeweler in Santa Rosa
Before assuming your pieces are beyond repair, bring them to a trusted jewelry appraisal expert in Santa Rosa. At Olde Towne Jewelers, we specialize in:
Fire-damage assessments
In-house jewelry repair
Estate jewelry evaluations
Fair market appraisals for insurance or resale
We’ll help you determine whether your jewelry can be repaired, repurposed, or sold.
Step 3: Restoration and Cleaning Options
If your piece holds sentimental or financial value, restoration may be the ideal option. Professional services may include:
Polishing & Refinishing – To remove soot and restore luster
Stone Replacement – Replace damaged stones with matching gems
Ultrasonic Cleaning – Deep, safe removal of debris and buildup
Our jewelry restoration services combine experience, artistry, and care.

Step 4: Consider Selling or Repurposing
If your jewelry is beyond full restoration, consider repurposing or selling it. Olde Towne Jewelers is a well-established jewelry buyer in Santa Rosa, offering:
Competitive payouts for scrap gold, silver, and platinum
The option to repurpose old materials into new custom jewelry designs
No-pressure consultations so you can explore your best option
Even damaged jewelry can hold significant material value.
Step 5: Document for Insurance Claims
If your jewelry was covered under your homeowner’s or renters insurance:
Photograph each piece—even if damaged
Gather receipts or any prior appraisals
Request a professional appraisal to determine the remaining value
Contact your provider and initiate the claim process promptly
We’re Here to Help
At Olde Towne Jewelers in Santa Rosa, we understand the emotional and financial toll of losing cherished pieces. Whether you want to restore, sell, or transform fire-damaged jewelry, our experienced team will guide you with honesty and compassion.
Visit Us
Historic Railroad Square
125 4th St., Santa Rosa, CA 95401
St. Francis Shopping Center
110 Calistoga Rd., Santa Rosa, CA 95409
📞 Call: 707-577-8813
📧 Email: info@oldetownejewelers.com