March 5, 2010
In these tough economic times, many people are tempted to get some extra cash by selling their jewelry. Advertisements in local newspapers and store windows offer seemingly easy, quick cash to the unwary seller. Inspectors with the County Department of Agriculture, Weights and Measures are helping to ensure that buyers and sellers are protected during our economic recovery; which includes staying abreast of rapidly advancing technologies.
“This week, March 1 -7 is National Weights and Measures Week and the Department is investigating a new type of business that is becoming very popular – traveling gold shows,” said Robert Atkins, County Sealer of Weights and Measures.
There are several things a seller should be aware of before they agree to sell their gold:
- Is the scale approved legal-for-trade?
- Is the scale tested and sealed by a sealer?
- Is the scale installed by a registered service agency?
- Is the scale indicator visible to the seller?
- Is there a misrepresentation of the quality of the metal (18k vs. 22k)?
- Is the weight being rounded down?
- Is the buyer a licensed weighmaster?
Last year, County inspectors visited approximately 260 jeweler scales at pawn shops, jewelry stores, traveling road shows and shopping mall kiosks to make sure they were complying with regulations.
To learn more about County Agriculture, Weights and Measures, please attend 2010 Consumer Protection Day on March 13 from 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. at the Scottish Rite Event Center, or visit www.sdcawm.org.
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