Gold Buyer Near Batavia, IL

Is it real gold? How we find out

Plenty of jewelry looks like gold and isn't. Some of it is plated, some is brass, and some carries a stamp it never should have had. That's why nothing at our counter is priced on looks. Every item goes through the same short process, and you see each step.

First, the stamp. We read the marking on the clasp, band or back with a loupe. A karat stamp such as 14K or 585 is a good sign but not proof, because stamps can be faked or applied to plated pieces.

Next, a test. We confirm the gold content directly, so the answer rests on the metal itself rather than the marking. It takes seconds per piece.

Then, the verdict, out loud. You'll hear which pieces are solid gold and what karat they are, and which ones aren't. Nothing is set aside or taken to a back room.

Testing is free. If you'd like to check a few pieces at home first, how to tell if gold is real covers the basics.

Signs a piece may not be solid gold

You can often spot a look-alike before you make the trip:

• Letters after the karat, such as 14K GF, 18K GP, 14K HGE or RGP, mean a thin coating of gold on a different base metal, which isn't something we purchase.
• A stamp that's crooked, blurry or oddly placed can mean it was added later.
• Worn spots showing a different color, usually reddish or silvery, at the edges or clasp point to plating.
• A magnet that grabs the piece firmly suggests a steel core. Note that clasps often contain a small steel spring, so test the chain itself.
• Green or dark marks on your skin after wearing usually mean base metal.

None of these is a final answer on its own. If you're unsure, bring the piece in, and we'll give you a definite one.

If it tests as solid gold, we buy it

Every karat from 10K to 24K. Chains, bracelets and necklaces of any weight. Rings of every kind, pendants, charms and medallions. Gold coins, bars and solid gold watches. Broken, bent, tangled, scratched or missing a clasp, it makes no difference, because we pay for the gold itself. One piece or an entire collection, the process is the same: tested in front of you, priced by karat and paid before you leave. Bringing a large collection? Call (630) 593-3510 and we'll reserve private time for you.

Getting here from Batavia

The simplest drive stays on the east side of the Fox River: head south on River St out of downtown Batavia. It becomes Route 25 (Broadway) as you enter Aurora, and you stay on it the whole way into Montgomery. Turn right onto Douglas Ave, and our plaza is at the corner of Douglas Ave and Montgomery Rd. From the west side of Batavia, near Randall Rd, cross the river at Wilson St first, then pick up River St heading south.

Batavia FAQ

Also near Batavia

We also welcome customers from Geneva, St. Charles, North Aurora and Aurora.

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