Everyone knows how much popularity gold has gained since the economy has turned sour. Today lots of people turn to gold as a way of safeguarding their wealth; however, it’s important to know how to invest wisely. This article is here to help you get everything you need to out of a gold investment.

When you sell gold, get an idea of value from a number of sources. Dealer prices vary by store. You can be certain you’re getting the best deal by shopping around.

Understand the spot price of gold before selling any. When selling gold, be sure that items of differing karat values are weighed separately. Try not to sell jewelry items that are valuable due to their maker.

Prior to buying or selling any gold, be sure you truly understand how gold pricing works. Silver, gold and platinum prices fluctuate often, and therefore you need to verify spot pricing the day prior to your intended deal. You must be prepared to pay higher percentages over the melt values for fractional gold pieces like 1/10, 1/4th, and 1/2 ounces versus one-ounce pieces.

Think about selling your gold online. You don’t need to visit an actual store to do this. You can use one of many websites out there to sell your gold. The site sends you a prepaid mailer to put the gold pieces in. They end up paying you once they receive it, but they usually won’t pay you a lot.

Research the market price before selling any of your gold jewelry. This can help you discern whether you’re being offered a good price or not. Dealers often assume that people who are trying to sell gold need quick cash and will try to take advantage.

Be aware that any items containing gold can be sold to someone dealing in gold. For example, you might sell home accent pieces, dinnerware, and old or broken rings and necklaces. Nor does it have to be 100% pure gold. Items with partial gold content, gold plating, or gold mixtures may still be valuable. You will still receive money from the sale of these items.

Check spot prices before you buy. You can find that on a lot of websites, and that can change every day. Never pay more than 8% premiums on your gold. Some sellers try charging more, but that’s overcharging, which is generally unethical.

Be sure the buyer you are considering is licensed by the state to make gold purchases. They are likely to be honest. There are quite a few vendors that will purchase gold, so never go into it thinking you’ve got to sell your gold to the first seller you talk to.

Prior to picking a gold buyer, comparison shop. You will get many different amounts. If you don’t shop around, you may not get what you are owed. Taking your time can really end up getting you the best deal out there.

Carefully read and check the small print in the sales contract. If you sell gold through a mail-in purchaser, make sure you understand the terms of the deal. There are going to be some fees and commissions to consider, and you don’t want them to be too steep.

Find a gold buyer that lets you send them your gold. Lots of sellers prefer this process, as it is easy. You obtain a prepaid envelope, put the jewelry in it, ship it, and get a check for it. Just keep in mind that such firms usually don’t pay that much for your jewelry, as compared to other options. In some cases, you could get about 30 percent less for an item, so just be aware.

Gold’s importance and popularity has reached impressive new highs in the aftermath of the financial collapse recently experienced worldwide. You can use gold to ride out the tumultuous wave that the stock market may be going through. We hope this article has provided some useful pointers.