What Refiners Actually Pay for Scrap
Estimate what refiners and gold buyers will pay for your broken jewelry, dental gold, and scrap. See melt value minus real-world payout rates.
Your Scrap Gold Value
Why Use This Scrap Calculator
Real Melt Value
Exact melt calculation with daily updated gold prices.
Buyer Types
Refiner, gold buyer, pawn shop, jewelry store rates.
Mixed Scrap
Unknown purity? Mixed option averages common karats.
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Where to Sell Scrap Gold
| Buyer Type | Typical Payout | Pros | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refiner Direct | 90-95% | Highest payout, professional assay | Large batches (1+ oz) |
| Local Gold Buyer | 80-90% | Immediate cash, convenient | Small to medium amounts |
| Pawn Shop | 70-80% | Quick, no questions asked | Very small, urgent cash |
| Mail-In Service | 75-85% | Convenient, insured shipping | Medium, remote areas |
| Jewelry Store | 70-80% | Professional environment | Upgrading jewelry |
Frequently Asked Questions
Any gold item valued for gold content only: broken jewelry, dental gold, old coins without numismatic value, manufacturing waste.
70-95% of melt value. Refiners pay most (90-95%), pawn shops least (70-80%). Always get multiple quotes.
Check hallmarks: 24K, 18K, 14K, 10K, 999, 750, 585, 417. If unmarked, use Mixed Scrap option or get tested.
Yes. Buyers only pay for gold. Gemstones inflate weight and add no scrap value. Sell separately if valuable.