Selling gold and silver can be a smart way to unlock value from items you no longer need. But with so many options available, it’s important to know who offers fair prices, transparency, and convenience .
Here’s a breakdown of the most common places that buy gold and silver:
Pawn shops are often the first stop for people looking to sell quickly. They typically offer on-the-spot evaluations and payments.
- ✅ Pros: Fast, no appointment needed
- ❌ Cons: Offers may be below market value
Tip: Visit multiple pawn shops to compare offers before selling.
2. Precious Metal Dealers / Coin Shops
Specialized gold and silver dealers usually offer better rates than general pawn shops because they deal exclusively in precious metals.
- ✅ Pros: Competitive pricing, expert appraisals
- ❌ Cons: May require appointments or have limited hours
Look for: Stores advertising “We Buy Gold” signs — these are often reputable dealers.
3. Online Buyers
Companies like CashforGold.com , Kitco , and SavATrade allow you to mail in your items for evaluation and payment.
- ✅ Pros: Often pay more due to lower overhead
- ❌ Cons: Takes time (shipping + processing)
- 🔒 Make sure the company is BBB-accredited and insured
Tip: Use free shipping kits and fully insured packages when sending valuables.
4. Jewelers
Some jewelers also buy gold and silver, especially if they specialize in custom pieces or estate sales.
- ✅ Pros: Local and convenient
- ❌ Cons: Not all jewelers buy metals; check ahead
5. Metal Refineries
These are ideal if you have large quantities of scrap gold or silver (e.g., industrial waste, dental gold).
- ✅ Pros: Best option for bulk sellers
- ❌ Cons: Not designed for individuals with small amounts
How to Get the Best Price When Selling
- Check current market prices – Track live gold and silver spot prices before selling.
- Know your karat weight – For gold, 24K is pure, but most jewelry is 10K–18K.
- Separate silver items – Sterling silver (92.5%) has its own value.
- Get multiple quotes – Compare offers from different buyers.
- Verify credentials – Look for licensed, insured, and trusted buyers.
FAQs About Selling Gold and Silver
1. Do I need an appointment to sell gold or silver?
Most pawn shops and local dealers accept walk-ins, but some coin shops may prefer appointments for larger items.
2. How much do buyers pay for gold per gram?
Payouts vary daily based on the gold spot price. Typically, buyers pay between 70–90% of the spot value , depending on purity and buyer policies.
3. Can I sell broken or damaged gold and silver?
Yes! Whether it’s broken chains, chipped coins, or melted silver, most buyers still accept them — though they’ll be weighed as scrap.
