A Smart Guide to Going Green by Recycling Jewelry

What Does “Going Green” by Recycling Jewelry Mean?

There is good news and bad news when it comes to going green by recycling jewelry.

The bad news is the precious metals jewelry is made from are natural resources of the Earth and are also non-renewable. They will eventually run out if they are continued to be exploited at the current rate. The good news is that these precious metals can be recycled without losing any important properties. By recycling them we can significantly reduce the damage done to the environment. Recycling jewelry has become more popular as people become aware of the large impact that mining, shipping and the dumping of metals and gemstones has on the ecosystem. The production of one gold ring can ultimately generate up to 20 to 60 tons of toxic waste. The dust raised by the massive blasting, earth moving equipment and amount of trucks operating in enormous open pit mines destroy vegetation, wildlife habitat and crops. The mining industry is the second largest industry contributing to greenhouse gases and global warming.

Fun Facts about Recycled Jewelry:

• Recycling gold, gemstones and other metals dates back to historic times. People have been recycling as early as 400 BC.
• There is evidence that early Romans recycled bronze coins into statues.
• Throughout history economic hardships always resulted in metals from jewelry and coins being melted for weapons or other necessary goods.

• It is estimated that the mining industry uses as much as 10% of the world’s energy output every year.

Recycling Your Jewelry:

The process of recycling a product into an entirely new product serves the purpose of reducing the consumption of resources, energy and space used in landfills. By recycling precious metals and contributing to the elimination of the need for further mining operations people can make a difference on the impact this industry has on the environment. Recycling jewelry is as easy as it is rewarding. Old jewelry pieces are brought to a jewelry buyer or dealer where they will then appraise and compensate you for them. The dealer sends them to be melted down and refashioned to create beautiful new pieces of jewelry. Recycling jewelry is not only eco-friendly; it is also a great way to put an old wedding ring or other jewelry item to good use and make money while doing it.

Important Things to Remember When Recycling Your Jewelry:

• Using a reputable jeweler who is also a jewelry buyer in your community is the most important decision to make when selling your jewelry. Getting an honest appraisal means that you will be assured of also receiving the highest payout. To get a good price when recycling your jewelry it is important to know what buyers are looking for. Unless the setting is a very rare antique or made by a famous designer then typically a piece is only worth its melt value.

Before recycling your jewelry it is wise to research the current market price for whatever precious metal or gemstone you are selling.  It is also important to choose a reputable jeweler who will pay you for the full melt value your jewelry is worth. Knowing the market value for the precious materials is one way to be assured of getting the best deal when recycling your jewelry.

Contact us now to schedule an appointment or call us at (619) 238-9100.

At David Levis and Sons Jewelers we believe in getting you the very best price for your jewelry. We are the premier Jewelry Buyers in San Diego and pay more than anyone else for your gold, silver, platinum, diamonds, jewelry, watches and coins.