Gold has been valuable for centuries. Since its discovery in ancient civilizations, it has been treasured by people. Beyond gold’s natural beauty, it has also acted as a way to store and accumulate wealth. If you want to buy or sell gold, read these tips.

Only sell to reputable buyers. Their reputation can be verified though online sources, as well as the BBB. A legit buyer will offer a fair amount for the gold you have. Don’t let yourself be taken advantage of.

If you are considering a gold buyer, do some research on him to make sure he is reputable. Read online reviews, check with the BBB, and see how the dealers resolve complaints. A variety of bids will ensure that you receive the best price.

Prior to buying a piece of gold from a seller, make sure you schedule for timely delivery. If you don’t get delivery immediately, get something in writing which confirms delivery of your pieces. A date should be spelled on this piece of paper. Don’t proceed with the order until you have this information.

The cost of gold may put you off. However, it’s still possible to buy gold jewelry and not need to spend a fortune at the jewelry store. Pawn shops can offer many good deals and there are also many online buying options.

If you plan to mail your gold jewelry to a firm, do some research on them and their policies before you do so. Find out when you will receive your money, and never send your package without insuring it first. Make sure that you photograph each piece of gold you’re sending before you mail it off.

You need to be cautious about the kind of gold that you purchase to help fund your retirement. The gold must be approved by the IRS. This means it needs to be in the form of coins or bullion that is marked 24 karats. You should be more inclined to buy gold bars, which hold greater value than coins.

Only buy gold jewelry from a seller if they have a return policy You have no idea if the person for whom you are purchasing the piece will like it or if it will fit. If this happens, then you need to be returning the piece in question for a refund.

Sell to licensed buyers only. While you could still get ripped off, a licensed buyer is more likely to be reputable. There are many people who will buy your gold, but some are out to rip you off.

Be careful in the gold market. All markets have their flaws, and the gold one is no exception. Despite your best efforts, some buyers and sellers are more than happy to cheat you wherever possible. You have to do your research to keep yourself safe.

Before you sell your jewelry for scrap gold, have them appraised. This tends to be true for pieces that have intricate workmanship and details. Even though there is an appraisal fee, you could see a lot of extra money in your pocket. Appraisers might be aware of someone that wants to purchase your jewelry.

There are other ways to invest in gold other than physically owning it. Gold mining stocks are available. You could also buy shares in a gold fund. If you decide to buy physical bars or coins, remember to consider how much it costs to store the gold securely.

Now you should know a little more about what gold is worth and how come so many people love it. Gold can be a good way to make money and be beautiful to wear at the same time. Follow the tips presented here to amass your own gold collection.