Sell gold for cash that you no longer need can be a great way to clear out clutter from your home, declutter your life and free up space for the things you truly value. It can also be a useful way to earn some extra cash that you can use for things like paying bills or to invest in something you really want.

However, when you decide to sell gold for cash, it’s important to keep in mind that not all buyers are created equal. Some dealers will offer you much less than the current market value of your gold items, and if you’re not careful, you can end up losing money on the transaction. So before you decide to sell, be sure to check out the following tips that can help ensure you get the best possible deal.

Search for Pawn Shops: A Guide to Finding Reliable Options Nearby

Selling your unwanted jewelry online can be much easier than going to a pawn shop. For one thing, you don’t have to worry about traveling or negotiating with a high-pressure salesperson. And since online gold buyers typically operate on a lower margin than brick-and-mortar businesses, they’re able to pay you a better price for your items.

When you’re ready to sell, prepare your items by cleaning them with warm water and mild soap. Avoid using baking soda or other abrasives, as these can scratch your jewelry. Then, organize them by karat and weight to make it easier for buyers to assess your items and provide you with an accurate quote. Once you’ve compiled your items, send them to an online buyer such as Gold to Cash. The company will offer you a prepaid shipping label and supplies for safe packaging, and they’ll even insure your shipment.