Smart Shopping: Jewelry

WSVN -- We all know that when times are tough, the only thing better than saving money, is making it. Many people are selling old jewelry.

Daniel Brauser, President & CEO, Dollars4Gold.com: "What we do is we provide an easy, safe and comfortable method for individuals to sell their old jewelry or old items in the comfort of their own home."

Just log on, and the rest is a breeze.

Daniel Brauser: "They simply put in their name and address. We go ahead and we send them all the materials that they're gonna need to package their items, and send them in to us."

Any jewelry made from metals like gold, silver or platinum can be turned into cash. Even if it's broken.

A good way to find out if your old jewelry contains precious metals is to hold a magnet up to it. If it's not magnetic, there's a good chance you'll be able to get some cash for your valuables.

Tracey Pollack sold a gold chain she wore as a little girl.

Tracey Pollack: "There wasn't any bargaining. There wasn't any going from store to store. It was almost too good to be true."

She now has her friends digging for gold as well.

Tracey Pollack: "Now I've told my friends about it. They're all going through their drawers, and I mean it really is found money."

But if want to buy, not sell, skip the high-end stores and head to the International Jeweler's Exchange. You could save a pretty penny on your next purchase.

Hilary Kates, shops at International Jeweler's Exchange: "I think over the period of the last 10 years I've saved several thousands of dollars."

Smart shopper Hilary Kates says, to get the best deals, follow some simple tips.

First, do your research.

Hilary Kates: "It's important to do your homework, and then go to the exchange and start looking and finding someone who can specialize in an item you're looking for."

Next, make friends with your salesperson.

Hilary Kates: "I definitely think I've gotten great prices at the Jeweler's Exchange because I work very closely with the merchants, and I send them a lot of customers, and I think that helps. I think that provides loyalty and good pricing."

And finally, try to buy name brands. They hold their value longer.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Dollars4Gold.com:
www.dollars4gold.com

International Jeweler's Exchange:
www.intljewelers.com