LAKE COUNTY — As the economic downturn puts more financial pressure on families and individuals, some may be tempted to sell old gold jewelry or scrap gold to the businesses advertising in the newspapers, radio and television. These “cash for gold” advertisements claim that all a person has to do is gather up unwanted gold jewelry and convert it to cash.
With current gold prices hovering at approximately $1,000 per ounce, some may be tempted to sell the gold, but before that happens, here is some good advice to follow from the Lake County Weights and Measures Department: The scale should have a county seal dated with the current year, the scale should be in a level position, the scale should be visible as the property is being weighed and if the scale is not visible, the buyer needs to furnish a weigh master certificate to the seller showing the weight of the items being sold.
If items are weighed in a bowl, dish, etc., the scale should indicate zero when the bowl or dish is placed empty on the scale.
As a seller, be aware of the price difference between 18k gold and 22k gold.
Being aware of these few rules of the trade should make the selling experience equitable for all concerned. For more information contact the Department of Weights and Measures at 263-0217.
