We live in a society where you have lots of buying and selling options. There’s a store, a trade market, Facebook, and Craigslist. The question for many is about the stability of the E-universe exchange. Let’s look at the rise of online pawn shops: pros and cons. 

Online

Pawn shops have come a long way from the seedy reputation they once held. There are numerous dependable pawn shops around the country, like Cash Express, with bright, approachable show floors and well-trained personnel. But not everyone wants to head to a storefront; some people can’t. 

The solution is surveying online pawn shops where, with a click of your phone, you can get a reply. You’ll know fairly quickly if the shop is interested in your item. If not, you haven’t driven around town hoping to find the right outlet. 

Online Pawn Shops: How They Work

As you might imagine, selling online is a little different from a face-to-face meeting. 

Selling to an Online Pawn Shop

The process begins by reaching out to the company. They will request clear images of the items you wish to sell. You’ll also need to provide detailed (did we mention DETAILED) descriptions of the item.

If you have any paperwork (provenance) that goes with it, take photographs of that, too. It proves ownership and, with more valuable pieces, history. At this point, the merchant provides an initial assessment, with final details to follow.

Next is where some people become uncomfortable. You have to mail in your goods for inspection and evaluation. The shop often pays for shipping and has insurance protecting your assets. They will then do a thorough evaluation and get back to you. 

There will be an offer, terms, conditions, and a contract detailing the amount. Now, just because it’s an online store doesn’t mean you can’t haggle. If you disagree with the amount, explain why. Once you’ve reached a final agreement and completed an electronic contract, you will receive your money through an accredited banking source.

But for the shipping, the process goes by quickly. Note that not all online pawnshops offer collateral for cash transactions. Sometimes, they’re only interested in selling, then re-selling. 

Buying at an Online Pawn Shop

The first thing you want to do before buying online is check to see if the place is reputable. Do they have any certifications? How do they back up the condition of their goods (and the value)? Are there 30-day warranties? 

Now the hard part, looking through the merchandise. You cannot see goods online the same way you can in person. If you are very interested in something, email and ask for more images if they haven’t already been supplied on the website. Compare the prices offered to similar retail products.

Should you decide to buy, there’s always the chance someone purchased it outright before you made an offer. If so, time to look at other possibilities. Once you’ve found what you want, get all the details on how mailing goes through. It should be traceable and fully insured. Again, this process takes more time than in-store shopping. 

Cash Express vs. Online Pawn Shops

First, just because a pawn shop is online doesn’t mean it has far more choices (let alone quality ones). If you look at the Cash Express gallery, it’s easy to see the diversity we offer. Second, when you are working with a brick-and-mortar business, you have someplace to return to, be it with questions, concerns, or as a repeat customer. 

If you’re looking to pawn, we are the top location in Philadelphia for quick cash. You do not have to wait to mail your item, get the appraisal, etc. Everything can happen in one day. If you’re looking to buy, you can experience everything hands-on, including jewelry and other items, one of which is sure to fit your budget. You walk out with your treasure!

To learn more you can reach out in three ways:

Our online contact form 

By email: info@pawnphiladephia.com,

or call our office at 215-922-1560

Better still, come for a visit: 731 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106

When you have some free time, window shopping at pawn shops can be fun. The diversity of items and how many catch your eye is astounding. You may even look at something you never thought was remotely valuable and gasp at the price tag. When you’re looking for unique items, try antique hunting in pawn shops: tips for collectors. Use the same tools as the pros!

Step One: What to Collect?

Maybe even back up one step further, “Why collect?” Sometimes, collections are unintentional (like someone mentioning they like elephants and friends start buying them). Other times, a person has an interest in one genre and sticks with that. And other folks still like to have a variety of intriguing items in their showcases.

What sort of things seem to hold their value and never go out of fashion?

• Books, specifically first editions: A popular writer, a fantastic cover, and excellent condition. All these contribute to a book’s value. 

• China sets & pieces: China becomes valuable, in part, because of its fragile nature. One oops, and you could lose thousands of dollars. The good news is sometimes the one-off item is favored over the whole collection.

• Coins: Antique coins have a large following. The older, the better condition and the rarity add up to money. Coin collecting is not likely to go out of popularity any time soon. 

• Depression glass: This is nice because it’s relatively affordable. 

• Furniture: Antiques by Ark’s specializes in antique furniture. But show floor size is limited, so we have a discriminating eye for things that fit our overall ambiance. 

• Paintings, big and small: Look for original art focused on topics people like and which have signatures. If there’s a story behind them, even better.

• Stained glass: Stained glass windows without blemishes may surprise you in their value. The difficulty is keeping them safe from cracks and chips.

• Tableware: That silver set lying untouched in a drawer could end up being quite valuable. Silver flatware with hallmarks on the back proves the piece is not silver-plated. Pick out a pattern and run with it.

• Timepieces: Rare clocks fetch a pretty penny. Clocks and watches from a specific era, or those created in a recognizable style like Art Deco, often have unanticipated value. 

• Vintage postcards: These evoke nostalgia. Again, this collection won’t break the bank, but you can find some older ones valued at $150 or more. 

Factoid: 

An item must be 100 years old or older comes under the label of being antique, while younger pieces are vintage. 

On the Hunt for Pawn Shop Antiques

No matter what you seek, be it jewelry or milk jugs, there are some protocols to follow. You want to authenticate items and then negotiate their price accordingly. Perhaps the most important rule is self-education. Do your research before setting one foot outside your door. Take notes, and your cellphone if you want to go back to pertinent information.

Pawn Shops rely heavily on their reputation, so they work very hard to authenticate pieces. Nonetheless, knowing value is a big ace in your pocket. Your local antique shop may not have the expertise of a pawn shop’s appraiser. They certainly can’t offer as great a variety as the pawnbroker.

Cash Express and Antiques by Ark’s

Our company takes pride in having one-of-a-kind pieces from all over the world. We would love to help you find that special item to add to your collection. Give us a call to ask about certain collectibles (215-922-1560). You can also email us info@pawnphiladephia.com and use our online contact form. Even if we don’t have what you want now, we can be on look out and let you know.

When you’re short on money and hoping to pawn something to fill the gap, at first, it seems hard to choose. However, there are certain things most pawn shops always want, including quality watches. At Cash Express, we review watches when they come in and come up with an appraisal.

The Appraising Proces

The checklist for watches being considered for pawning goes something like this:

1. Reputation: Brand matters. Well-known brands with a good reputation retain their value better than other watches. Think Omega, Rolex, and Tag Heuer, for example. If the piece is in good condition, the pawn value improves.

2. Quality: Speaking of condition, if your watch works well and shows little signs of wear and tear, it’s great. If you have the box and original papers to prove provenance, the price it can fetch is even higher.

3. Limited editions. At Cash Express, our appraisers consider the rarity of a piece. Watches with unique features are more desirable. Many antiques have that little extra something that makes them special.

4. All that glitters: If your watch has gemstones (diamonds, rubies, sapphire, etc) or it was made with metals like platinum or gold, those features improve the value. Metals, for example, can be reviewed for current market value.

5. Proper service and maintenance: If you have your records of maintenance on your watch, bring them with you. 

Then, of course, there’s market demand. Like fashion, one year, a specific watch will be a “hot” commodity, and another year not so much so. If you have a popular watch, it will help you at the pawn store.

What Does Your Broker Want?

It’s worth making a call to individual pawnshops to see what they’re currently buying. It will save you a lot of time. It’s also worth taking time to educate yourself about your watch so you get a feel for how it’s selling elsewhere.

As an aside, you do not have to sell your watch out-right. Rather, you can use it for collateral to help with short-term financial struggles and pay it back over the allotted time. There are no special credit checks, making things go much more quickly.

Examples of Popular Watches for Pawning

• Audemars Piguet Royal Oak: This watch falls into the luxury sports category. It’s become iconic.

• Breitling Navitimer: The legendary design of the Breitling has an aviation inspiration (chronographs). It’s considered a watch that lasts. 

• Omega Speedmaster Professional: Omega became a star when it was the first watch worn on the moon. Its historical importance makes an impact on buyers.

• Patek Philippe Nautilus: If you’re looking for amazing craftsmanship, Patek Philippe never fails. The Nautilus is elegant and sophisticated and has a porthole shape for those who love the high seas!

• Rolex Submariner: In the world of watches, Rolex is a name everyone recognizes. It was built to last, with a timeless design.

• TAG Heuer Carrera: This is another sporty watch, with ties to motorsports. The basic design is a classic.

About Cash Express

There is a reason that Cash Express is the number one pawnbroker in Philadelphia. One of our specialties is high-end watches. We have an online contact form you can fill out to find out if your property is something we’re looking for right now (saves you a trip). You can also email us at info@pawnphiladephia.com, or call our office at 215-922-1560.

We look forward to serving you.

There is no definitive answer, as if you can sell clothing to pawn shops. Some places won’t even look at clothing because it takes up a lot of inventory room. Plus, the condition of clothing must be prime, and, if possible, a name brand.

At Cash Express, our experience indicates that, unlike jewelry and tools, clothes can take a long time to sell. Clothing styles change in the blink of an eye. Assessing clothing also proves challenging based on wear and tear.

Don’t be wholly discouraged. You can sell clothing to some pawn shops successfully. In some instances, it can be a great way to clean out your closet and get some extra cash.

What Pawn Shops Don’t Want in Clothing. 

In order to sell clothing to pawn shops successfully, it helps to know some of the key reasons the establishment might say “no.”

1. Very specific sizes or styles. These have limited resale value. 

2. Condition. While you might think a piece looks great, pawnbrokers have keen eyes. They look for seam issues, stains, and other signs of heavy use to determine whether they’ll buy an item.

3. Seasonal Items: Pawnbrokers will rarely buy winter items in spring. The demand is low. So sort your items by season before you try to sell.

4. Knockoffs: When you’re selling high-end, designer pieces, there’s always caution. The shop needs to authenticate the piece and make sure it’s not counterfeit. If you have any documents supporting the validity of the clothing, bring them. Providence at Cash Express matters and can increase the value of your item.

5. Space constraints: Pawn shops won’t usually just grab up a bundle of pieces. They opt for items that, in their experience, will sell well (and quickly).

6. Clothing types: Pawn shops are on the lookout for designer pieces. But like any other piece, they review the clothing’s condition and then consider it based on their target market. 

How to Sell Clothing to Pawn Shops Successfully

So what DO pawn shops accept in the way of clothing based on their target market? 

1. Gently used pieces

2. Designer Clothing

3. High-end wardrobe accessories

Look at your clothing with a discerning eye. Think like another person might if they were looking at the item. If you can put yourself in those shoes, you make better choices about what to pawn. 

Pawning vs. Selling

The only real reason to pawn your clothing is if you don’t mind not having the item for a while and you’re looking for fast cash that you can repay in a specific amount of time. With your wardrobe, outright selling might be the best idea. The only downfall here is that you may receive a lower amount than pawning. 

Tip: Avoid pawning or selling items with sentimental value. You may regret this decision in the future.

Contacting Cash Express

If you are uncertain whether or not we are taking specific items, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We can give you our requirements and let you know if we might be interested in seeing the piece(s). Our telephone number is 215-922-1560. 

You can also email us at info@pawnphiladephia.com or use our online contact form to find out if your property is something we’re looking for right now or to ask questions. Our trained staff is ready and happy to be of service.

In a review of Cash Express’ history, one of the most common goals is raising $500. Before you start looking through your goods, remember that you can bring more than one item to reach your $500 goal. Sometimes, that bundle is much easier to assemble vs. finding one BIG item. 

When you think about pawning, there are a couple of important matters to know. For one, not all stores take all goods. Try to find an outlet that’s a “one-stop shop” instead of having to run around. If you’re not sure, call ahead and see if the shop is looking for items like those you currently have. 

Here is a list of potential items pawnshops accept:

• Antiques: A painting, chair, unusual lamp, coins, carvings, and more. Look at Antiques by Ark’s for ideas.

• Cards: Older decks and card games with all their components may move you toward that $500 goal.

• Clothing and Handbags (designer). People find the most amazing pieces in a hope chest, attic, or the back of their closets. The key in this category is authentication since there are many knock-offs.

• Comic Books: collecting comic books can turn into a lucrative venture. The items in their original sleeve and without blemish are the real gems. If you have any priced at 12c, 15c, 20c, or 25c, it’s a good bet you’ll get a solid offer. 

• Electronics. Items like smartphones, TVs, computers, digital cameras, and gaming systems are usually “hot” items as long as they are in good working condition. 

• Furniture: You’ll need a pawnshop with a showroom (usually) to sell these items. Your best bet is to take a picture and share it with the shop. Note: If it smells or has obvious stains, you will get less. One popular era is mid-century modern. 

• Musical instruments. In areas with schools, students (or their parents) always look for affordable instruments. Things like guitars, violins, flutes, and drums can fetch a pretty penny. Don’t forget microphones and speakers.

• Power tools: Do you have a set of Craftsman tools lying around? They’re worth the money. Combine them with a few other carefully used tools, and you’re heading toward $500.

• Precious jewelry made from silver, gold, and platinum. Look through bracelets, rings, and necklaces.

• Sports gear: Not skiing anymore? Are you tired of snowboarding? What about paintball guns, golf equipment, or camping equipment? All of these bring a fair value when pawning. 

• Vehicles: If your car, motorcycle, mountain bike, or boat is in good condition and you have a clear title (no loans), a vehicle can raise more than $500 easily.

About Cash Express

Our specialization is providing loans on jewelry, watches, precious metals, and gems. You can see some of our selection here, at our showroom.

Our staff is well trained and service-oriented. We have appraisers on-site for things like gems, rings, and designer items. This and our amazing selection make us the #1 pawn shop in Philadelphia. Email us for information, or call (215) 922-1560.

Thinking about purchasing a musical instrument from a local ​pawnshop? At Cash Express, we have people coming in regularly seeking a good instrument at a reasonable price. When you shop, there are things to watch out for so you can make the best deal possible. 

• Wear and tear: You want intact parts and functionality. Inspect the piece for signs of poor maintenance or damage. Cracks, dents, warps, sticking keys, dirt, grime, and loose strings can all prove problematic. They may require further maintenance outside the store to resolve. 

• Rusting: If the instrument you’re considering has metal components (like woodwinds), inspect for signs of corrosion. Such parts reveal either poor maintenance or exposure to harsh (or damp) conditions and may affect the instrument's performance and longevity.

• Branding: There are certain high-value instruments, so of course, you’ll come across counterfeit ones. See if the instrument has any history (proof of provenance) or a maker's mark. If you have a specific item in mind, research it beforehand. If you’re at the store and unsure, ask if you can bring in an expert for inspection.

• Market Value: We have a gallery of products you can look at before coming to the store. Our pricing for instruments depends on the brand, age, rarity, and condition. You can compare prices online to see if you’re being offered a reasonable deal. If not, negotiate.

• Smells: Nasty smells may indicate mold or mildew, either of which can damage an instrument. 

• Store Returns: Does the pawnshop have a policy about returning something within a set amount of time should you discover a big problem? This protects you from having to spend large sums on repairs.

• Legal Ownership: Ask for the original pawn ticket (or bill of sale). This proves the shop legally owns the piece, meaning it has the right to sell it.

• Personal Assessment: Not all instruments are for all people. A violin, for example, may feel great for one player while someone else isn’t so thrilled. A lot of this is personal taste and an understanding of sound quality. Also, sound can indicate a problem, like buzzing.

Your evaluation is essential. If the piece needs considerable restoration, that’s a point for negotiation (what will you have to pay for repair after purchase?).

By the way, if you have any items you want to pawn (sell), you can use that value toward your purchase. Start there so you know how much you have in ready cash. 

About Cash Express

In the pawnshop industry, reputation matters. The positive feedback we consistently get from our customers is one of the reasons we’re the #1 pawnshop in the Philadelphia region. When you come to our shop, you can expect friendly, knowledgeable staff who are happy to answer your questions. More importantly, we strive for satisfaction. There is no hurry to jump into a purchase if you’re uncertain. 

There are three ways you can get in touch with us for further information:

Phone: (215) 922-1560

Email: info@pawnphiladelphia.com

Online Contact Form

At Cash Express, one of the things we constantly purchase is Smartphones of all makes and models in good working condition. If you’re in the market for a more affordable device, we have nine tips to help you shop smart.

1. Research: The phrase “know before you buy” comes to mind. Before visiting a pawn shop, research the model and specifications of the smartphone you intend to buy. This will help you identify any common issues or red flags associated with that particular model. While you’re at it, do some comparison pricing on both new and used models. 

2. Inspect the Phone “Head to Toe”: Physically examine the smartphone for any visible damages or signs of wear and tear. Check the screen for scratches, test the buttons and ports, and inspect the overall condition of the device. It's also important to ask whether the phone is unlocked or locked to a specific carrier.

3. Check the IMEI Number: Request the device's IMEI number (usually found in the phone's settings or by dialing *#06#) and verify it through a reliable online database. This will help you determine if the phone has been reported lost or stolen, which could present future issues. While it’s likely the pawnshop personnel did this before even buying the phone, not all places are trustworthy. 

4. Does it Work?: Ask the pawn shop if you can test the smartphone's functionality before purchasing it. Check the camera, make a test call, connect to Wi-Fi, test the touchscreen responsiveness, and open various apps to ensure they work smoothly. If you notice anything awry, ask our experienced service people at Cash Express for help. We want you to walk away wholly content with your purchase. 

5. Inquire About Warranty and Return Policy: Ask about any warranty or return policy offered by the pawnshop for used electronics. You may need it if you encounter any issues with the phone after the purchase. If it’s sold “as is,” take extra time to check the system out. 

6. Negotiate: Don't be afraid to negotiate the price. Pawn shops are often willing to consider reasonable offers, so try to get the best deal possible based on the condition, age, and market value of the smartphone.

7. Consider Additional Costs: Remember to factor in any additional costs when buying a used smartphone, such as accessories (charger, protective case), repairs (if needed), and potential unlocks or carrier switches. See what bells and whistles come with the phone presently that will ultimately save you money. 

8. Obtain a Purchase Receipt: Request a purchase receipt or any documentation that verifies the transaction. This will serve as proof of purchase and can be useful for warranty purposes or if any issues arise later on.

9. Reset the Device: After purchasing the used smartphone, reset it to factory settings to erase any existing data from the previous owner and start fresh.

Our inventory at Cash Express changes daily. Our gallery gives yo a peek at new items. However, to see our whole stock, make a visit to our Philadelphia, PA, store. Take your time and shop around. 

You can call beforehand (215) 922-1560, email: info@pawnphiladelphia.com, or use our online contact form for more information. 

Pawn shop loans are a type of short-term secured loan where ​borrowers can use their personal possessions as collateral. Here's how ​pawn shops like Cash Express’ loans work and when they may make sense:

How it works: You’re stuck and need money quickly. If you want to secure a pawnshop loan, bring in an item of value, such as pottery, coins, watches, electronics, or jewelry, to the pawnshop. If you’re unsure what things the pawn shop may want, look at their online catalogs for inspiration. Or, call the store and ask about “hot ticket” items currently. 

Once you’ve picked out your collateral and arrived at the store, the ​pawnbroker (or a skilled professional employee) inspects the item, assessing its worth and offering a loan. The amount is based on a percentage of its value, typically around 25% to 60%. 

Expert tip: Avoid any items with strong emotional connections. If you lose that piece, you’ll regret it. 

You now have a choice to make. Do you accept the loan terms? If so, there is an immediate receipt of the cash and a pawn ticket, which is evidence of the loan. The loan period is typically 30 days, during which the borrower can repay the loan with interest and redeem their item. 

What happens if you cannot pay? The pawnbroker may sell the item. However, many store owners will reach out before then and try to work out new terms with you. You can also inquire, explaining the circumstances.

When They Make Sense: 

Pawn shop loans can be beneficial in certain situations:

a. No Credit Check: You don’t have to worry about a credit check or verification of income. There will be no impact on your credit score, which is perfect for people with poor credit or no credit history.

b. Quick Cash: Pawn shop loans provide immediate access to funds. If you need money urgently to cover unexpected expenses or short-term financial hardships, a pawn loan can offer a fast solution.

c. No Risk of Debt: Unlike traditional loans, pawn shop loans are collateral-based. If you cannot repay the loan, there is no direct impact on your credit score, and you won't accumulate additional debt since the collateral is used to secure the loan.

d. Negotiable Terms: Pawn shop loans often have more flexible terms than traditional loans. The loan amount, repayment period, and interest rates can often be negotiated with the pawnbroker.

The Downside

Considerations: While pawn shop loans can be helpful in certain situations, there are a few factors to consider:

a. Interest Rates and Fees: Pawn shop loans typically have higher interest rates and fees than traditional loans. Having said that, the interest is over a shorter time than most conventional loans.
b. Value of the Collateral: If you underestimate your collateral’s worth, you may receive a lower loan amount than expected. Do your research before heading to the store.
d. Limited Loan Amounts: The loan amount is typically a percentage of the item's appraised value, which may not provide sufficient funds for larger financial needs. You may need more than one item. 

Getting a Loan

Pawn shop loans, like those we offer at Cash Express, can be a viable option for those needing quick cash, especially if they have poor credit or require a short-term solution. You can call us at 215-922-1580 if you have any questions about how to proceed. You can also use our contact form to open discussions on particular items.  

Pawn shops are one of the best places to find authentic jewelry without breaking the bank; however, you need to ensure that you can tell the difference between fake and real jewelry so that you pay the right price for the right piece. 

Luckily, there are a few tips and tricks of the trade that you can use when shopping to assess whether or not the jewelry you found is real or fake! 

1. Research Average Pricing

The price tag on a piece of jewelry can tell you a lot about the quality. Of course, cheaper pieces are usually fake or plated, whereas more expensive pieces will often be the real deal. 

Sadly, if a price seems too good to be true, that’s probably because it is, and you’re looking at a fake piece of jewelry as opposed to a real one. 

Also, if you are searching for a specific piece, such as a gold chain or a diamond ring, it’s a good idea to do a bit of research ahead of time and find out how much a quality piece costs. That will help you determine which jewelry you see at the pawn shop is real and which is fake. 

2. Look for Hallmarks

A “hallmark” is an official stamp that marks a real gold or platinum piece of jewelry. Not all pieces have them, but they are fairly common, and if you do find one, you’ve likely found an authentic piece of gold jewelry. 

The hallmark is usually visible on the inner band of the ring or on the clasp of a bracelet or necklace; it will show a number from 1 to 999 or from 0k to 24k. 

3. Feel the Weight 

Real gold and silver jewelry is much heavier than fake pieces. In fact, an expert hand can even tell which pieces are simply gold-plated and which are pure gold throughout. 

To get used to the weight of the jewelry, try holding onto a piece you know is made completely of precious metals such as gold or silver and then holding one that is simply plated. You’ll be able to tell the difference in no time!

4. Assess the Coloring

It’s important to understand that real gold never tarnishes, even over long periods of time. It may be dirty or less brilliant, but real gold will never actually be discolored, and it would certainly never turn your skin green. 

A great way to assess jewelry in a shop is to bring a soft polishing cloth with you when you go; if you can gently rub off any dust or dirt, it is far more likely to be real. 

Here at Cash Express, our knowledgeable staff knows the difference between fake and authentic jewelry, so you don’t have to be an expert! We will show you which pieces in our collection are fake and, therefore, much cheaper and which are real, authentic gold, platinum, gemstone, or silver pieces that you’re going to love!

Whether you plan to hold on to your vintage jewelry until you leave it behind in your will to your loved ones or you’re thinking about someday selling it, it’s absolutely essential that you take care of your antique jewelry to keep it looking beautiful. 

Luckily, there are just 5 easy steps to follow to take fantastic care of your beloved vintage jewelry. 

1. Remove Any Dust With a Soft Brush

The first step is to use a soft brush to remove any dust particles. If you don’t have a soft brush on hand, you may want to invest in one, as jewelry-cleaning brushes must be exceptionally smooth. 

Even with the perfect brush, it’s still vital to remove the dust extremely gently so as not to scratch the jewelry. 

2. Choose the Right Cleaning Product

Next, you need to select the right cleaning product, and not all jewelry cleaners are made the same. The chemical composition of different metals means they need different types of solutions, so make sure you do your research first. 

Gold Jewelry

When it comes to antique gold jewelry, you need a cleaning solution that contains plenty of water and ammonia. However, while ammonia is necessary, it can also be dangerous. Therefore, it’s important not to leave the cleaning solution on too long. 

Because ammonia is so strong, we don’t recommend making your own solution, but instead, you should purchase an ammonia cleaning product specifically made for gold or platinum. 

Silver Jewelry

All silver vintage jewelry can and should be cleaned with a diluted baking soda solution. In this case, you can make your own at home; just make sure you follow instructions to ensure you use the proper measurements. 

Once you have the solution ready, be sure to apply it gently, as silver is not nearly as strong as gold or platinum. 

Jewelry with Gemstones

Cleaning antique jewelry with gemstones is slightly more complicated than working with gold or silver jewelry. 

For example, some gemstones, such as diamonds, sapphires, and rubies, are extremely strong and can handle an ammonia solution, whereas others cannot. 

Therefore, it’s important to research how to clean the specific gem you’re working with to keep it brilliant and safe. 

Vintage Pearls

If you have a set of vintage pearls, the best way to clean them is actually to wear them. Your skin's natural oils will ensure the pearls stay vibrant and beautiful. 

You can also use a soft cloth and a few drops of olive oil, but make sure to only rub them gently and infrequently. 

3. Use a Soft Cloth to Clean

Once you have the perfect cleaning solution ready for your vintage jewelry, it’s time to actually use it with a soft cloth. 

Apply a small amount of the solution directly to the cloth and rub the jewelry delicately until it shines clean. The cloth can be damp but certainly not wet. And if there are a few hard-to-reach places, you can use a Q-tip with a bit of water and a cleaning solution as well. 

4. Dry & Polish 

After your jewelry is sparkling clean, it’s time to use another soft cloth to dry the piece thoroughly. Any residual liquid could cause serious and lasting damage, as moisture is one of the worst things for antique jewelry. 

You can also take a little extra time to polish your jewelry with a special polishing cloth to make it shine even more. 

5. Store in a Dry Location & Repeat

Finally, it’s essentially that you store your vintage jewelry in a cool, dry location without moisture. You should also continue to clean your antique jewelry every few months to ensure it remains in the perfect condition for whatever it is you want to do with it. 

Now you have all the information you need to protect your new vintage jewelry from Cash Express Pawn Shop or to make sure the jewelry you have is clean and beautiful to be enjoyed or sold!