Did you know that you can buy great jewelry at a pawn shop for far less than what you would normally pay for it? In fact, most pawn shops will sell pieces for up to 30 to 50 percent off the retail price!
With that in mind, what’s the best kind of jewelry to buy at a pawn shop?
Rings
Rings are one of the most sought-after jewelry pieces, especially by newly-engaged couples. Engagement rings in particular tend to be far more expensive than other types of jewelry.
You will find a surprisingly wide selection of pre-owned engagement rings to choose from at your local pawn shop. Pawn shops often sell gold, silver, and platinum rings as well as rings with diamonds or other precious gemstones set into them for much less than the rings you would find in a retail jewelry store.
Most pawn shops will also offer to clean the jewelry pieces you buy either for free or for a small fee, so no need to worry about purchasing a dirty ring. You may want to look up the local pawn shops specializing in jewelry in your area to check on these fees beforehand.
If the thought of a buying a pre-owned engagement ring conjures up worries of a failed marriage, you can ask if the pawn shop have any brand-new pieces they have on-stock instead! They will be more than happy to accommodate you.
Necklaces and Pendants
Pawn shops also have a good variety of gold, silver, and platinum necklace chains or individual pendants in-stock as well. While many jewelry stores tend to sell only the trendiest pieces, pawn shops have a wider variety of vintage and unique jewelry pieces that may be more suited to your tastes.
One of the best things about pawn shops is the ability to make a customizable piece. For instance, you may really like the look of a particular pendant, but might not like the necklace chain it is attached to. You can simply ask the pawn broker to transfer that pendant to a chain you do like instead. Shops that can afford an in-house jeweler may also make smaller tweaks to pieces at your request.
Bracelets and Charms
Much like necklaces, you can also mix and match different sorts of bracelet chains and charms to create a wholly unique piece. If you have small wrists, you could even ask if it’s possible for the in-house jeweler to shorten the length of a bracelet you like.
A Note on Authenticity
If you are still wary about purchasing jewelry from a local pawn shop, be sure you look up their reputation online before visiting. You might also want to look up the retail prices for the pieces you’re looking for so you have a better feel of what’s a deal and what isn’t.
Any reputable in-house jeweler for a pawn shop should have a GIA certification or a valid appraisal document that proves their expertise, so you can ask to see it if you have any doubts about the shop.
