Gold has been used for centuries as a form of money. If you are interested in making the most of the opportunities presented by gold, this article is for you. Continue reading to get some terrific advice.

Gold’s price is always changing, which makes it important to know your piece’s value before selling it. If you choose to sell gold items, those with differing karat designations ought to be weighed on their own. Do not sell your designer jewelry for its weight in gold because you will lose money.

When selling gold, sell to reputable buyers. Contact your local Better Business Bureau to see if there have been complaints filed against a gold dealer. A legitimate buyer will pay you fairly for your gold while giving you great customer service. You have to protect your investment as well as yourself.

Before buying from a gold seller, schedule a timely delivery. If you don’t get delivery immediately, get something in writing which confirms delivery of your pieces. The expected date must be listed. Only go through with your order if you obtain this document.

Get your jewelry appraised. It costs a little, but the knowledge gained is valuable. If you want to obtain an unbiased value, retain the services of a certified appraiser. Even if you still choose to sell, do know that you aren’t going to get the appraised value.

Be aware that any items containing gold can be sold to someone dealing in gold. It could be a broken jewelry item, table settings, home decor items or anything that is in the house. Solid 24-karat gold isn’t the only type that dealers are interested in, either. Items with partial gold content, gold plating, or gold mixtures may still be valuable. You may still get a little of your initial outlay back.

Check spot prices before you buy. The spot price can be found in many places, and it tends to fluctuate often. Never pay any more than an 8 percent markup on the gold prices. There are dealers who attempt to charge a higher amount, but they are unethical and simply overcharging.

You can use a magnet to test precious metal inexpensively. Precious metals, gold included, are not magnetic. Sometimes the clasp of a piece is solid, however the rest will be plated. This is a smart idea to test it this way.

You must always perform your own analysis before making any investments in the gold market. There may be individuals that claim to be professional market gurus, but they’re just scam artist that want your investment. On the other hand, you need to stay mindful about anyone who promises you they can make you rich quick. Don’t think of gold as easy money, and you can avoid fake claims.

Sending your gold away via postal mail is one option for selling it. Lots of sellers like this because it’s convenient. They send you an envelope, and you ship the gold to them, then they pay you by check. Places that use this option usually pay a lesser amount. Be aware of the fact that you may receive approximately 30% less in some instances.

When you go to a dealer, make sure to read all forms clearly. Gold is a huge market that has some serious money involved in most transactions. Make sure you completely understand the contract you are signing. If the terms are not agreeable to you, get ready to move on. It can be worth it to make sure you have that extra protection.

There are few people that do not understand gold’s role in stockpiling wealth. The poor economy in recent years has only boosted this trend. These tips will help you make the most of your gold investment.