How to Sell Scrap Gold & Broken Items for Cash
Turn your damaged and broken gold items into cash quickly and safely
Selling scrap gold and broken items can feel hopeless — but with the right knowledge, you can still get fair prices for your damaged precious metal items. This guide breaks down exactly how to sell your scrap gold quickly and safely, whether it's broken jewelry, damaged coins, or industrial scrap.
Understanding Scrap Gold Value
The value of your scrap gold depends on several key factors that buyers consider:
Gold Content & Purity
- Karat Rating: 24K, 18K, 14K, 10K determine purity
- Weight: Measured in grams or pennyweights
- Current Gold Price: Live market rates fluctuate daily
- Scrap Rate: Typically 60-80% of spot price
Condition & Type
- Damage Level: Severity affects value
- Item Type: Jewelry, coins, dental, industrial
- Contamination: Dirt, solder, other metals
- Processing Cost: Refining and separation expenses
💡 Pro Tip: Check today's spot gold price before selling. Gold prices fluctuate daily, so timing can significantly impact your payout. Use reliable sources like Kitco or the London Bullion Market Association for current rates.
Where to Sell Your Scrap Gold
Gold Refineries & Scrap Buyers
✅ Pros:
- Best payouts for scrap (70-85% of spot)
- Specialize in damaged items
- Professional testing equipment
- Accept all gold types
❌ Cons:
- May require minimum quantities
- Limited locations
- Processing delays
Pawn Shops
✅ Pros:
- Instant cash offers
- No appointment needed
- Quick transactions
- Local convenience
❌ Cons:
- Lower payouts (50-70% of spot price)
- Limited testing capabilities
- May reject heavily damaged items
Online Gold Buyers
✅ Pros:
- Competitive payouts (65-80% of spot)
- Convenient shipping
- Free appraisals
- No travel required
❌ Cons:
- Shipping risks
- Longer wait times
- May reject certain items
CashCrowds - The Smart Choice
✅ Why Choose Us:
- Multiple competitive offers
- No travel or shipping
- Transparent pricing
- Secure platform
✅ Our Process:
- List once, get multiple quotes
- Compare offers instantly
- Choose the best deal
- Safe, verified buyers
Tips for Getting the Best Price
Before Selling
- Separate items by karat (10K, 14K, 18K, etc.)
- Remove non-gold parts when possible
- Clean items gently to remove dirt
- Research current gold prices
During Negotiation
- Get multiple offers before deciding
- Ask about testing methods used
- Negotiate based on current market rates
- Don't feel pressured to accept first offer
Why CashCrowds is Your Best Option
While all these selling options work, the biggest challenge is getting fair offers quickly. Instead of running around to multiple shops or dealing with shipping risks, CashCrowds lets you list once and get multiple competitive quotes instantly.
List Your Items
Simple form with photos and details
Get Multiple Offers
Competitive quotes from verified buyers
Choose & Sell
Pick the best offer and complete sale
Compare real offers in minutes - no obligation
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do buyers pay for scrap gold?
Scrap gold buyers typically pay 50-85% of the current spot gold price, depending on the buyer type. Pawn shops offer 50-70%, while specialized refineries may offer 70-85%. The exact percentage depends on your gold's condition, karat, and current market demand.
Do I need to clean my scrap gold before selling?
While not required, gently cleaning your scrap gold can help buyers assess its true value. Remove loose dirt and debris, but avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the metal. Most professional buyers will clean and test items during the appraisal process.
What's the difference between selling to a refinery vs. a pawn shop?
Refineries specialize in processing scrap gold and typically pay 70-85% of spot price, while pawn shops may pay 50-70%. Refineries have better testing equipment and understand the refining process, but pawn shops offer faster cash and more convenience. CashCrowds gives you access to both options.
How quickly can I get paid for my scrap gold?
Payment speed varies by buyer type. Pawn shops offer immediate cash, while refineries may take 1-3 business days. Online buyers typically process payments within 3-5 business days after receiving and testing your items. CashCrowds listings show expected payment timelines so you can choose based on your urgency.
Is it safe to sell scrap gold online?
Yes, when using reputable platforms like CashCrowds. We verify all buyers and provide secure transaction processes. Look for buyers with positive reviews, insurance coverage, and clear return policies. Always use tracked shipping and keep documentation of your items before sending.
Ready to Get Cash for Your Scrap Gold?
Don't let damaged gold items go to waste. Get competitive quotes from verified buyers in your area through CashCrowds.