Whether it’s heirloom jewelry you’re ready to part with or an outdated piece you haven’t worn in ages, pawn shops are great places to go if you’re selling diamonds. There, you’ll find experienced buyers who will offer fair prices for your goods. Below, American Trading Company in Cincinnati, OH, offers an overview of how pawn shops assess and make offers on diamonds.

Pawn Shop’s Guide to Selling Diamonds

What Will the Pawn Shop Look For?

When buying diamonds, there are certain characteristics the pawn shop will assess. They'll look at the gem’s cut to see that its angles are brilliantly reflective and that the finish is clean and smooth. They will also check out the color and assess clarity to check for potential flaws like chips, bubbles, or cracks. Finally, they’ll weigh the diamond to decide how many carats the gem weighs. A carat is equal to 200 milligrams, and heavier gems are worth more—so long as it’s good quality.

Do Certifications Matter?

One of the major questions most amateur diamond sellers have is whether certifications matter. Gemological Institute of America (GIA) certificates are the most respected as they offer laboratory testing and third-party assessments that help diamond buyers choose to purchase only high-quality gems. Additional certificates like paperwork indicating worth from a jeweler may be checked when deciding on an appraisal, but the number won’t always match up with what a pawn shop will offer on a piece of jewelry or a gem.

If you’re hoping to start selling diamonds to pawn shops, it’s a good idea to know a bit about the process so you can be prepared. Bring any certificates you have and expect an appraisal to determine a purchasing price. To learn about how American Trading Company processes gem, call (513) 661-3633. Visit the website for information on their accreditation and other items they buy from jewelry to rare coins, watches and scrap gold.