Frequently Asked Questions
How is gold purity tested when selling jewelry?
Gold purity is tested using industry-standard methods to verify karat, such as 10K, 14K, 18K, or 24K. At Twin Falls Gold and Silver, we test your gold in front of you and explain the exact karat before presenting an offer. This ensures transparency and accurate valuation based on current spot price.What's the difference between junk silver and sterling silver?
Junk silver refers to 90% U.S. coins dated 1964 and earlier, valued for metal content rather than collectibility. Sterling silver is .925 pure and commonly found in jewelry and flatware. At Twin Falls Gold and Silver, we buy both and explain fineness and pricing based on live spot price.How does spot price affect my gold selling offer?
Spot price is the current market value per troy ounce of gold, updated continuously throughout the trading day. Your offer is calculated by multiplying your gold's weight and purity by the spot price at the time of evaluation. At Twin Falls Gold and Silver, we review these numbers with you on certified scales.Can I sell broken or mismatched gold jewelry?
Yes, broken, tangled, or single earrings are valued based on metal content, not appearance. At Twin Falls Gold and Silver, we purchase scrap gold in any condition, test the karat in front of you, and provide a fair offer based on weight and current market pricing.What does troy ounce mean when selling silver?
A troy ounce is the standard unit for weighing precious metals, equal to 31.103 grams. Silver pricing is typically quoted per troy ounce on the live spot market. At Twin Falls Gold and Silver, we convert your item's gram weight to troy ounces and explain how it determines your offer.Why does platinum have different pricing than gold?
Platinum is rarer and has unique industrial demand, which causes different market volatility and pricing compared to gold. At Twin Falls Gold and Silver, we explain how purity, weight, and current platinum spot price determine your offer, and review the differences between these metals on the spot.What are numismatic coins and how are they valued?
Numismatic coins are collectible pieces valued for rarity, condition, and historical demand, beyond just metal content. At Twin Falls Gold and Silver, we evaluate select numismatic coins and explain any premium or collectible value in addition to the bullion spot price during your visit.Do I need to clean my jewelry before selling it?
No, scrap and old jewelry are valued based on metal content, not appearance or cleanliness. At Twin Falls Gold and Silver, we test and weigh items as-is, so broken, tarnished, or dirty pieces are welcomed and evaluated transparently for their gold or silver content.What's a premium when buying silver bullion?
A premium is the amount added to the spot price to cover minting, distribution, and demand factors for bullion products. At Twin Falls Gold and Silver, we clearly explain the spot price and any applicable premium so you understand the total cost before purchasing silver bars, rounds, or coins.Are 1965 half dollars considered junk silver?
Some 1965–1970 Kennedy half dollars contain 40% silver and are purchased for metal content, though they are not classified as 90% junk silver. At Twin Falls Gold and Silver, we test and explain silver content for all coins and provide fair offers based on purity and current spot price.How do certified scales ensure accurate gold weight?
Certified scales are regularly calibrated to industry standards and provide precise gram measurements for precious metals. At Twin Falls Gold and Silver, we weigh your items in front of you on certified equipment and convert grams to troy ounces for transparent, accurate valuation tied to live market pricing.Can I get a quote without selling my items?
Yes, every evaluation at Twin Falls Gold and Silver includes a free, no-obligation quote. We test, weigh, and explain value based on purity and spot price with no pressure to sell, allowing you to make an informed decision on your own timeline.Do I need an appointment to sell gold or silver?
No appointment needed. Walk-ins are always welcome during business hours for a free, no-obligation evaluation.
What types of items do you buy?
We buy gold and silver jewelry (rings, chains, bracelets, earrings, watches), dental gold, silver rounds, bullion, coins, platinum, and select antique or estate jewelry. Broken, mismatched, old or new—condition doesn’t matter.
Do you buy broken or damaged jewelry?
Yes. Broken, scratched, or tangled pieces still have value based on precious metal content. Bring it in.
How do you determine what my items are worth?
We test purity and weigh your items in front of you, then make an offer based on current market prices. If something has collectible or resale value beyond melt, we’ll explain that too.
Will you test my items in front of me?
Absolutely. Transparency matters to us. You’ll see the testing and weighing process so you know exactly how the offer is calculated.
Am I required to sell if I get a quote?
Not at all. Quotes are free and there’s zero pressure. You’re welcome to walk away.
How do I get paid?
We offer same-day payment. Payment methods follow Idaho regulations and our in-store policies.
Do you buy silver rounds and bullion?
Yes. We buy silver rounds, bars, and bullion, as well as gold bullion and coins.
Do you buy dental gold?
Yes. Dental gold (crowns, bridges, scrap) contains precious metals and has real value.
Do you buy coins?
Yes. We buy gold and silver coins and evaluate both metal content and any collectible (numismatic) value.
Is there a minimum amount to sell?
No minimum. Bring in one piece or a full collection—every item is evaluated.
How long does the process take?
Most evaluations take just a few minutes. You’ll receive your offer and payment the same day if you choose to sell.
Is your business local?
Yes. We’re a family-owned local business serving the Twin Falls community with honest, transparent pricing.
Where are you located?
321 Washington St, Suite B, Twin Falls, ID 83301
(Separate entrance for Twin Falls Gold & Silver)
What should I bring with me?
A valid photo ID is required by law for precious metals transactions
Buying from us FAQs
Buying From Twin Falls Gold & Silver
Below are answers to common questions we hear from customers who want to buy jewelry and precious metals from Twin Falls Gold & Silver.
What are my payment options when purchasing?
We accept several forms of payment. In-stock items can typically be purchased the same day. For special orders, we may require a deposit to lock in pricing, with the remaining balance due by an approved payment method once your order is ready. Please contact us or visit the store and we’ll walk you through the options and timelines.
What items do you sell?
Our showroom is primarily focused on gold and silver jewelry—rings, chains, bracelets, earrings, pendants, and unique pieces. We also offer select watches and special finds as available.
Do you carry coins, bars, or bullion?
We keep our in-store inventory focused on jewelry, but we can source and order a wide selection of gold and silver products by request—including many popular coins, rounds, and bars. Tell us what you’re looking for and we’ll help you get it.
Do I have to pay sales tax when purchasing?
Sales tax rules vary by product type and current Idaho requirements. If sales tax applies to your purchase, we’ll clearly explain it before you check out.
How do I know the items I buy are real?
Authenticity matters. We verify precious metals using industry-standard testing methods and we’re happy to show you how we test and verify gold and silver before you buy.
Is it better to buy gold, silver, or both?
Many customers choose a mix of gold and silver for balance. The right approach depends on your goals—budget, time horizon, and whether you’re buying for collecting, gifting, or long-term holding. We’re happy to talk through options.
Do you report my purchases to the government?
In general, purchases are private. However, federal law requires reporting when a business receives more than $10,000 in physical cash within a 24-hour period (including related transactions). If this applies, we’ll let you know what documentation is required.
What is the difference between a troy ounce and a regular ounce?
Precious metals are measured in troy ounces, not regular kitchen ounces.
- 1 troy ounce = 31.1035 grams
- 1 regular ounce = 28 grams
How can I purchase from you?
You can purchase in store during regular business hours. For special orders, we’ll confirm product availability, pricing, and pickup timing with you.
How are your prices determined?
Pricing is based on factors such as market conditions, product type, demand, availability, and any applicable premiums for certain items. We’ll explain the pricing clearly before you buy.
Do you ever do special promotions?
Yes. We occasionally run specials on select items. Ask in store how to stay updated on promotions.
Do you have any recommended products for new investors?
Most first-time buyers prefer widely recognized, easy-to-trade items. Popular options often include common government-mint coins and standard bars/rounds because they tend to be easier to sell later. We’ll help you choose based on your comfort level and budget.
What is the difference between a coin and a round, medallion, or bar?
- A coin is produced by a government mint and has a stated denomination.
- A round/medallion is produced by a private mint and typically has no denomination.
- A bar may be made by either a government or private mint and has no denomination.
Can I make a purchase over $10,000?
Yes. We can assist with larger purchases, including special orders. For larger orders, we typically recommend payment methods that are secure and allow us to lock in pricing, and we’ll go over timing and pickup details with you. Please contact us in advance so we can help you efficiently. (Note: purchases involving large amounts of physical cash may require federal reporting.)
Selling to us FAQs
Selling to Twin Falls Gold & Silver
Below are answers to common questions we hear from customers who want to sell jewelry and precious metals from Twin Falls Gold & Silver.
What types of items do you purchase?
We buy gold, silver, platinum, and palladium in many forms, including jewelry (even broken pieces), bullion coins and bars, collectible coins, sterling silver flatware, hollowware, and more. If you’re unsure about an item, bring it in—we’ll evaluate it for you.
What payment options do you offer?
We offer convenient payment options including cash, company check, and cashier’s check for larger transactions. Payment method may vary by transaction size and type.
How do you determine value?
We base offers on current market (spot) price, weight, and purity. Our evaluations use industry-standard testing and live market pricing for fair, transparent offers.
What kinds of gold do you buy?
We buy yellow, white, and rose gold in all karats—from gold-filled to 24k. Broken or mismatched jewelry is welcome.
Do you buy diamonds and gemstone jewelry?
Yes. We evaluate diamonds and gemstone-set jewelry. Stones and precious metal content are assessed to provide a fair offer.
Do you buy coins, bullion, and graded coins?
Yes. We buy bullion bars and rounds, investment coins, collectible coins, and PCGS/NGC graded coins.
Do you buy dental gold?
Yes. We buy dental gold including crowns and bridges. Mixed alloys are tested to determine precious metal content.
Do you buy sterling silver and silverware?
Yes. We buy sterling jewelry, flatware, and hollowware. If markings are worn, we test items to confirm purity.
Are there items you do not buy?
We do not buy gold-plated or silver-plated items, or items whose authenticity cannot be verified.
How can I tell what metal I have?
Look for stamps such as 10k, 14k, 18k for gold and .925 or Sterling for silver. If unmarked, we’ll test it.
Do I need an appointment?
No appointment is needed. Walk-ins are welcome. Large lots may take additional time to evaluate.
Do you provide insurance appraisals?
We provide evaluations and purchase offers, but we do not issue formal insurance appraisals.
Why might there be a wait time?
During busy times, evaluations can take longer to ensure accuracy and fairness for every customer.
Helpful Terms
Troy Ounce: Precious metals are weighed in troy ounces (31.1035 grams).
Spot Price: The live market price per ounce of a precious metal.
Bullion: Coins, rounds, or bars valued primarily for metal content.
Premium:
The amount above spot price for physical coins or bars.
Twin Falls Gold & Silver —
321 Washington St, Suite B, Twin Falls, ID 83301
Family-owned. Honest evaluations. Transparent
