If you are in the market for a piece of jewelry, one of the places that you can buy from that you may not immediately think of is a pawn shop. There are pros and cons to buying jewelry from a pawn shop. Taking the time to learn about some of these pros and cons will help you to learn if it is right for you. Here are a few of the pros and cons to buying jewelry from a pawn shop.

Cons of Buying Jewelry From a Pawn Shop

• The Jewelry Is Often Used

While some people do pawn or sell jewelry that is brand new, the majority of people pawn or sell jewelry that is used. If you are looking to buy the piece of jewelry as a gift, you may not want something that is used. Additionally, some people are superstitious about buying used engagement or wedding bands, as you never know if the piece brought bad luck to the couple. If you want a new piece of jewelry, buying from a pawn shop may not be ideal for you.

• Pawn Shops Are Not Jewelers

The other disadvantage to buying from a pawn shop is that a pawn shop is not a jeweler or a gemologist. They make take every step possible to determine the cut, clarity, and color of a diamond, but if you are going on their word alone, they may be wrong. If you are looking to buy a pricey piece of jewelry from a pawn shop, ask them for an appraisal from a certified jeweler or gemologist. This helps ensure you know exactly what type of stone and metal type you are buying.

Pros of Buying Jewelry From a Pawn Shop

• Lower in Price Than Jewelry Stores

One of the biggest benefits to buying jewelry from a pawn shop is that the jewelry is often lower in price than you would pay in a jewelry store. Most people do not realize that jewelry is kind of like cars. You take a huge hit in value once the jewelry is purchased and is no longer brand new. Someone else has already taken this hit, leaving you with the ability to purchase a piece at a great price.

• They May Have Unique Offerings

The other advantage to buying jewelry from a pawn shop is that you may have more unique offerings. As you walk through jewelry stores looking for a piece to buy, you may find that many of the pieces look similar. This is because jewelers stock pieces that are currently on trend and popular with consumers. However, when you buy from a pawn shop, you may have older pieces, as well as newer pieces. This gives you more selection and may allow you to buy pieces that you have not seen in years or decades.

If you are looking to buy jewelry from a pawn shop, keep in mind that most pieces of jewelry are used. However, jewelry can be cleaned and shined up, making it look good as new. If you are looking for a great price on jewelry or want something unique and don't mind a used piece, a pawn shop may be the perfect place for your next jewelry purchase.