Across the country, local police departments are auctioning off seized, confiscated, and unclaimed jewelry—and the deals are unbelievable.

Why Are These Auctions Happening?

When law enforcement seizes items during investigations or arrests, and no one legally claims them, they become government property. Eventually, departments are required to clear out storage… and that’s where these public jewelry auctions come in.

Unlike retail stores or even pawn shops, these auctions aren’t designed for profit. The goal is to recoup costs and free up space. That means insane deals for the public—if you know where to look.

What Kind of Jewelry Can You Expect?

Expect everything from luxury watches and gold chains to diamond rings, designer earrings, and vintage treasures. Some pieces are modern. Others are truly one-of-a-kind. And because they were seized during investigations, many items still have tags or appraisal paperwork attached.

Some users report bidding on:

A Rolex that sold for under $500

Diamond studs appraised at $1,400, sold for $125

A Cartier bracelet that started at just $80

It’s not uncommon to get 10x-20x value—if you know how to spot the right listings.

How to Find These Auctions Near You

Most police departments work with third-party auction platforms, so these listings are available online. Some sites specialize in government-seized property, while others partner directly with local law enforcement.

The best part? You don’t need any special credentials or licenses. If you're 18+ with internet access, you can start browsing now.

But Act Fast…

Many of these listings are first-come, first-serve or have countdown timers. Once they’re gone, they’re gone. That’s why more savvy shoppers are setting alerts and checking weekly drops.