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A Day in the Life of a Boston Pawnbroker: Behind the Scenes of Our Jewelry Business

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Pawnbroker in Downtown Boston

Boston PawnbrokerWelcome to our blog, where we pull back the curtain on the inner workings of our jewelry business. Today, we’re diving into the intriguing world of our daily life as a pawnbroker. At Bromfield Jewelers, we pride ourselves on offering a unique perspective and unparalleled service to our customers. Here’s a glimpse into what goes on behind the scenes:

Early Mornings and Preparation

Our day typically begins early. Before the doors open to the public, we meticulously prepare for the day ahead. This involves reviewing inventory, assessing market trends, testing gold and appraising pieces of jewelry for our customers.

Customer Interactions

Some customers bring in items they wish to pawn for a collateral loan, while others bring in secondhand jewelry they wish to sell for instant cash. One of the most rewarding aspects of our job is the opportunity to interact with such a diverse range of people. From first-time visitors to regular clients, each interaction is unique and meaningful.

Assessment and Valuation

When customers bring in jewelry for evaluation, our 50+ years of expertise comes into play. We carefully examine each piece, considering factors such as craftsmanship, materials, and current market value. Our goal is to provide fair and accurate assessments, ensuring our customers receive the best possible value for their items.

Negotiations and Transactions

Once an assessment is complete, negotiations begin. This part of the process requires sensitivity and transparency. We aim to reach agreements that satisfy both parties, whether it’s a pawn loan, a sale, or simply providing information and advice.

Staying Informed and Adapting

The jewelry industry is dynamic, with trends and market values constantly evolving. Staying informed about these changes is crucial. We attend trade shows, engage with industry publications, and leverage our network to stay ahead of the curve. This knowledge allows us to offer informed advice and competitive pricing to our customers.

Community and Trust

At the heart of our business is a commitment to building trust within our local Massachusetts community. Whether it’s supporting local events, sponsoring initiatives, or simply being a reliable resource, we take pride in our role as more than just a jeweler. We are a trusted partner and a valuable member of the community.

Closing Thoughts

As the day winds down, we reflect on the interactions and transactions that have taken place. Each day as a pawnbroker brings new challenges and opportunities. We are grateful for the trust our customers place in us and the chance to play a part in their stories.

Thank you for following along on our journey at Bromfield Jewelers. We look forward to welcoming you into our business and assisting you with all your jewelry needs. Stay tuned for more insights and stories from behind the scenes of our jewelry business!

Contact us for a Free Evaluation

How to Take Care of Diamond Earrings

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Diamond earrings are beautiful and timeless accessories that can dress up any outfit. However, we find that many women who have these precious gems are too afraid to wear them due to the risk of losing or breaking them.

Just like any piece of fine jewelry, diamond earrings can last a lifetime if taken care of properly. Below there are some tips and tricks on how to take care of your diamond earrings.

Storing Diamond Earrings

When your diamond earrings are not being worn, it’s important to store them correctly, out of harm’s way. If you have drop or dangle earrings, we recommend storing the earrings flat. However, if your earrings are simple studs, you can store them flat or pinned to an earring holder.

Cleaning Your Diamond Earrings

Even if you don’t wear your earrings often, dust, oil, and powder can cake on your earrings causing them to look dull and worn. High-quality jewelry, such as diamond earrings are easy to clean if done often. To clean all you need is mild dish soap, a soft-bristled toothbrush, and warm water. Gently scrub your earrings with the toothbrush and soapy water, then rinse. Lastly, dry the earrings thoroughly before storing them in your jewelry box. If you wear your diamond earrings often, we recommend getting them cleaned professionally at least once a year.

Inspect Your Earrings

As with any quality piece of jewelry, diamond earrings should be inspected often. Inspect all prongs and wiggle your diamonds to ensure there isn’t any movement. If there is some movement, be sure to take the earrings to your reputable jeweler for a proper repair.

Wearing Earrings

While we encourage you to wear your diamond earrings, there are occasions you shouldn’t wear them. You shouldn’t wear your fine jewelry while cleaning, showering, sleeping, or exercising. When wearing your fine jewelry during these activities you run the risk of damaging the prongs or causing a snag, which can result in a loose or missing diamond.

Get Your Earrings Professionally Inspected

If you own diamond earrings, it’s important to get into the habit of having your jewelry inspected by a certified jeweler. During the inspection, a jeweler will ensure the prongs are intact and will catch problems before they occur.

Luckily, if you’re in the Boston area, Bromfield Jewelers can inspect your diamond earrings to ensure they will last for years to come. If there are any problems, such as loose diamonds or broken prongs, our certified jewelers can repair your fine jewelry quickly and affordably. To learn more about our family-owned store or to schedule an appointment, give us a call or stop in.

Top 5 Luxury Watch Brands for Men

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Whether you are trying to make an impression at work or with a significant other, a luxury watch is a staple and timeless accessory that never goes out of style. If you are thinking about purchasing a luxury watch, you may be overwhelmed. There are many luxury watch brands which range in price and style. So, what are the most popular brands? Below, we have compiled the five most popular luxury watch brands for men and have discussed what makes each unique.

Rolex

When you think of luxury watches, Rolex probably comes to mind. This Swiss brand of watches was founded in 1905 by a 24-year-old named Hans Wilsdorf. At the time, wristwatches were not very popular; however, Wilsdorf was convinced they would be the next big thing. Rolex was the first of many in the watch industry. In 1926, Rolex was the first to come out with a waterproof watch which completely changed the industry. Rolex was also the first to come out with the DateJust feature which is on many watches you see today.

More than 100 years later, Rolex is a leader in the luxury watch industry and continues to grow. As technology continues to develop and fads come and go, this brand continues to stay on the forefront in both design and technology.

Patek Philippe

Patek Philippe is a luxury watch brand based in Geneva, Switzerland and was founded in 1839. Even in its early history, many celebrities, royals, and high-profile individuals have worn and helped endorse this brand, including Albert Einstein and Prince Albert. Today, these watches continue to develop timeless accessories which contain some of the most technical and advanced movements. You can often find these watches paired with fine leather bands or sterling silver bands.

Omega

Omega is another popular brand which has continued to grow in the industry. These luxury watches are also headquartered in Switzerland and was founded in 1903. During the early century, Rolex and Omega were neck and neck as far as competition and were the leaders in Swiss watches until the 70’s when Omega began to experiment in Quartz while Rolex continued to invest in complicated mechanics.

The Omega brand has been worn by many celebrities and high-profile people including John F. Kennedy, James Bond, and even Buzz Aldrin on the moon. Today, many of the styles used in the 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s continue to be hot selling items due to their elegance and timelessness.

Where to Buy Luxury Watches in Boston?

If you’re looking for luxury watches in the Boston, MA area, count on Bromfield Jewelers. Our family-owned business buys and sells luxury watches that are not only in style but will also give you the statement piece you are looking for. To learn more about watches we have in style, visit us or give us a call at (617) 423-7464.

Wearing Your Antique Jewelry: The Do’s and Don’ts

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If you have antique jewelry that has been passed down, you probably cherish the beautiful heirlooms and only wear them on special occasions. We often find that many men and women that own antique jewelry are too afraid to wear it.

We are here to tell you there is no need to fear your jewelry! In fact, we encourage you to wear your precious pieces! Just like any piece of jewelry, there are a few do’s and don’ts before you wear your heirloom.

Wearing your Antique Jewelry:

Inspection

When wearing your heirloom jewelry, be sure to get it inspected often. With age, prongs can become loose. Getting your jewelry inspected at least once a year can help tighten any loose stones before they fall out.

Fittings

Whether your fine jewelry was passed down from your grandmother or mother-in-law, chances are the size will be different. We always recommend getting your high-end rings or bracelets fitted before wear. Having your jewelry properly sized before wear can reduce the chance of that piece falling off and getting lost.

Storage

When your jewelry is not being worn, it’s important to store your jewelry in a specified jewelry box. This can reduce the amount of dust that cakes on your heirloom. It can also reduce the risk of an accidental mishap—such as a pet or child getting ahold of the piece.

What Not to Do When Wearing Antique Jewelry:

When wearing your heirloom jewelry, it’s important to sure you do not do the following:

  • Wear while exercising: When exercising, oils and sweat can cake on your fine piece which can damage any heirloom. It also increases the risk of getting snagged or lost which can be detrimental to anyone with an antique.
  • Wear while showering: Shampoos and soaps contain chemicals which are fine for our bodies and skin, but can cause damage to fine jewelry.
  • Wear while moisturizing: Similar to soaps, lotions can often cake inside the crevices of a fine antique. To eliminate this risk, be sure to remove your fine jewelry before moisturizing.
  • Wear while swimming: Whether you are visiting the beach or hitting the pool, water can cause finger size to shrink. Especially in the ocean, tides and currents can rip a loose ring right off and would be near impossible to find.

All in all, we encourage those who own antique jewelry to flaunt it! Heirlooms should be worn and last for generations to love, cherish, and enjoy. If you own antique jewelry and are located in the Boston area, we would love to see you. We offer a variety of services such as repair and maintenance of fine jewelry so you can ensure it will last for years to come.

To schedule an appointment, give our store a call or stop in and see us! (617) 423-7464.

Real Designer Jewelry vs Knock Offs—How to Tell the Difference

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Over the years, an abundance of knock-off jewelry has been produced. Tiffany, Gucci, Rolex, and Chanel, are some designer brands that have been replicated.  This might make you question what jewelry is real and what isn’t. Or, it may make you ask, “Why should I buy an authentic designer piece in the first place?”

Why Purchase Fine Jewelry

First, designer jewelry is worth the investment. The quality, care, and materials that go into producing a high-end piece is above anything you can buy for less.

Typically, fine jewelry is crafted by a certified jeweler who is a master of the craft. Jewelers, such as those at Bromfield Jewelers, have exceptional attention to detail to ensure that every stone is correctly and securely placed.

Did you know a real diamond is the hardest substance on the planet? In fact, only a diamond can chip another diamond. Fine jewelry is crafted from high-end materials that are durable and meant to last. Typically, artificial metals will fade, chip, or crack over time. When purchasing fine jewelry, keep in mind that metals and precious stones will last for years to come.

How to Spot Fake Jewelry

Large luxury brands such as Rolex and Tiffany are often replicated; however, there are a few ways to ensure your next purchase is authentic and not a knock-off.

Be Caution of Prices

High-end jewelry pieces typically don’t go on sale. Therefore, if a price seems too good to be true, chances are, it probably is. Remember that fine jewelry is an investment and worth the extra spending.

Look for Flaws

If you’re buying “Tiffany’s” jewelry but you notice the stamp is crooked and the chain has lines, chances are it is probably fake. When you purchase fine jewelry, you can expect most pieces to be nearly flawless. Double check before you make an investment, inspect the piece yourself for any mishaps.

Inspect for Fading

Did you know that real gold never fades? In fact, some of the oldest gold in the world still shines like new. If a piece you’re about to buy is fading, it is a sign that what you are purchasing could be a knock-off.

Always purchase from a reputable dealer.

Online action places, such as Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist, make buying many items affordable and easy. However, when purchasing fine jewelry there is a lot of risk. When you purchase from a reputable jewelry retailer, you can ensure the item you are purchasing is inspected and certified.

If you’re looking for a reputable dealer in the Boston area, be sure to visit Bromfield Jewelers. Our family-owned business has certified fine jewelry that you can pass on for generations. Whether you are looking for a gift for yourself or are shopping for a loved one, let us help you find something that speaks to you.

The Complete Beginner’s Guide to Antique Jewelry

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The Complete Beginner’s Guide to Antique Jewelry

Antique Jewelry BuyerDid you know… antique jewelry is jewelry that’s at least 100 years old?

If you own a piece like this (oh, lucky one!) or if you’re interested in getting one, this little guide is for you:

How To Buy Antique Jewelry:

  1. Find an antique jewelry buyer and/or seller whose reputation is rock solid. This is non-negotiable!
  2. Train your eye to look for flaws when inspecting the condition of the piece. Ask any questions you might have and remember to enquire about any existing documents.
  3. Know your eras and know what you’re looking for. Or at. (Doing extensive research beforehand helps.)
  4. The price point must be realistic. If it’s too cheap, it’s probably a fake.
  5. Remember: a piece in good condition will hold its value for years to come. If, at any point in the future, you decide to sell it, the antique jewelry buyer will be able to offer you a very good price for it.

Which brings us to this…

How To Care For Antique Jewelry:

  1. Avoid wearing it when practicing sports and when lifting or pulling things, as it might get bent. Watch out for rings, particularly.
  2. Clean only with a soft textile or polishing cloth. Don’t get any chemicals or substances involved and do not immerse in water.
  3. Fold in an anti-tarnish cloth if the item goes into long-term storage.
  4. Always store it in a cool and clean place, away from direct sun and moisture. Your future antique jewelry buyer will thank you! Make sure the pieces don’t mix or touch each other, as they might get destroyed over time.
  5. If you wear make-up or if you decide to apply a finishing mist of hairspray, avoid getting any of it on your antique jewelry. If you do, wipe it off immediately with a cloth.

Antique Jewelry Buyer
If you are set on parting with some of your jewelry pieces, go to a reputable antique jewelry buyer, preferably in a physical location.

Selling online can be quite treacherous, so steer clear of scammy web transactions, especially if you have no previous experience as a seller.

For a reputable antique jewelry buyer in Downtown Boston, look no further than Boston Jewelry & Loan, our family-run jewelry store and pawnbroking business. With over 30 years of experience, we are dedicated to making the best offers. Come for an in-person appraisal today!

Visit us in Downtown Boston and sell your designer watch today!

53 Bromfield Street, Boston, MA 02108

Call Us: (617) 542-1990

How To Get Your Used Jewelry Squeaky Clean

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How To Get Your Used Jewelry Squeaky Clean (& Sell It Faster!)

Sell Used JewelryYou’ve made up your mind: you’re going to sell the used jewelry that you don’t wear anymore.

That’s great, except… are you sure it’s ready to be sold as-is?

A freshly-cleaned piece will shine brighter than a neglected one and, in exchange, it will fetch you the best possible price!

Here’s how to clean your jewelry at home:

1. How To Clean Silver And Gold

Ready to sell used jewelry that is made exclusively from silver or gold?

Get a small bowl, fill it with warm water and dip your jewelry. (Never clean it straight under a jet of running water – small pieces may fall down the drain!)

Add just a few drops of dish soap or any other gentle soap and allow the jewelry to soak for a while. Then gently rub your fingers against the dirt to scrub it off. Rinse and pat dry with a fresh cloth or allow to air dry. Hang necklaces or bracelets to allow the water to drip out by itself.

2. How To Clean Jewelry With Gemstones

If you want to sell used jewelry that is adorned with gemstones, then you have to make sure the sparklers are, well… sparkling!

First, some words of caution. If your jewelry has glued-on pieces or has soft stones (like amber), do not dip or scrub. Just wipe the stone with a moist cloth and with a dry one, alternatively.

Otherwise, you can proceed with the exact same method as above: dip in lukewarm, soapy water. Allow the dirt to dissolve and use a soft bristle toothbrush to scrub off any stubborn grime.

Sell Used Jewelry

3. How To Clean Other Precious Jewelry

Finally, when it comes to cleaning precious heirlooms, antique or estate jewelry, here’s a good rule of thumb: if in doubt, don’t take the DIY route! Sometimes, it’s better to take the jewelry to a professional cleaner instead of risking to damage it right before the big sale.

Remember: if you want to sell used jewelry and get top dollar for it, it’s never a good idea to clean it using chemical dips, acetone, baking soda, chlorine or toothpaste. All these substances can permanently damage or chip your jewelry.

Now that your jewelry is squeaky-clean, you can confidently take it in for an appraisal. Excited to sell used jewelry? We at Boston Jewelry & Loan are dedicated to giving you the best price for your pieces and our licensed and bonded appraisers are ready to make you an instant offer. Pop into our Downtown Boston store today!

Visit us in Downtown Boston and sell your designer watch today!

53 Bromfield Street, Boston, MA 02108

Call Us: (617) 542-1990

How You’re Losing Money By Not Selling Your Designer Watch

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How You’re Losing Money By Not Selling Your Designer Watch (& What You Could Buy Instead)

sell-watch-boston Here’s what: holding on to a watch you’re not exactly planning on wearing anytime soon is bad business.

Bad business for who?

For you, of course!

Think about it: you could easily sell your watch and, with the new funds, you could indulge in some fresh accessories.

1. Sell Watch In Boston And… Become An Expert At Layering Vintage Rings

But not just ANY vintage rings! The rarer, the better: large, ornate and adorned with precious gemstones, an enviable stack of rings can become both a man’s or a woman’s statement accessory of choice. Have fun mixing and matching!

2. Sell Watch In Boston And… Amass An Impressive Collection Of Summer Earrings Instead

Summer is the best season to wear the boldest designs you can get your hands on! After all, there are no thick hats or scarves to hide them. Geometric earrings with natural textures are big right now, as are the twisted designs and over-the-top, gem-happy designs.

And if you’re a man? Don’t hold back! Go for studs or even for grungier designs like safety pins made of precious metals.

3. Sell Watch In Boston And… Invest In Diamond Jewelry

Hunting for valuable diamond jewelry is fun in itself. The possibilities! The thrill of the chase! The alluring prospects! The best part of it, though? Any jewelry piece that boasts a diamond will preserve its value over the years. Solid.

sell-watch-in-boston

4. Sell Watch In Boston And… Get A Different One

Unintuitive? Maybe! But why not take the leap and go for it? After all, if you can do without this timepiece, it must mean that it’s not the ideal one for you. And, if you don’t find yourself with an urgent need for cold, hard cash, giving your passion for valuable watches one more shot might be just the thing to do.

5. Sell Watch In Boston And… Reinvest The Money

If you love jewelry and watches, but you’re not crazy about any of the fantasy scenarios above, here’s a more down-to-earth option: reinvest your dollars in something you’re passionate about.

Maybe it’s your best friend’s business.

Maybe it’s your own new start-up.

Or maybe you just want to spend it all on something urgent.

Whatever your plan may be, we at Boston Jewelry & Loan will help you discover the true value of your timepiece. We are a family-run jewelry store with over 30 years in the neighborhood and we welcome any type of fine watches: vintage, designer, you name it! Stop by our Downtown Boston location today and let us see what we can do for you.

Visit us in Downtown Boston and sell your designer watch today!

53 Bromfield Street, Boston, MA 02108

Call Us: (617) 542-1990

Sell Like A Pro: How To Get More Money For Your Jewelry

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How To Get More Money For Your Jewelry

jewelry-buyer-in-bostonWe ALL have that one piece of jewelry that we simply can’t let go of. (Even if we urgently need cash!)

And there’s always some silly little reason to keep it around: “I’ll never know when I’ll need it.”, “If I sell it, I’ll regret it.”, “I’m afraid the jewelry buyer won’t give me a fair price for it.”

Do any of these lines sound familiar?

Then it’s time to cut loose.

Here are 3 ways to get (more) money for your used jewelry:

1. Be Aware Of What You Have

It’s important that you know as much as possible about your item before going to a jewelry buyer. Where did you get it from? What is it made of? How old is it?

The Pro Tip: Google your piece if you think you can find it, but don’t obsess over what the Internet says, as it cannot possibly tell you the true value of your piece. Always bring your piece in for an appraisal – the jewelry buyer will be able to accurately assess its worth.

Speaking of…

2. Only Go To A Reputable Jewelry Buyer

You’d think this one goes without saying, but it doesn’t hurt to hear it one more time: don’t go about selling your jewelry online. In-person appraisals are essential for getting the right price. And when it comes to choosing a physical store…

The Pro Tip: Never go to shady locations or to pop-up events, even if you’re in a hurry – you’ll get ripped off! Instead, go to an established local store with a good reputation in the area. What you want is the opinion of an experienced, reputable jewelry buyer.

jewelry-buyer-in-boston-ma

3. Clean It Up

Don’t just rush out that door with the jewelry in your pocket! Before visiting the jewelry store, take the time to prep the piece to the best of you abilities.

The Pro Tip: If you’re looking to sell gold or silver jewelry, clean the piece with warm water and a touch of gentle soap. Rub around the edges with your fingers or a soft toothbrush to remove grime. Pat dry with a clean cloth and voilà: your jewelry is now ready for sale!

If you’re ready to sell your diamond or gold jewelry and you’re in the Boston area, do not hesitate to visit Boston Jewelry & Loan, our family-run jewelry store and pawnbroking business. We have been around since 1972 and we will offer you the highest on-the-spot payments for all types of valuables. Visit our Downtown Boston location today to get started!

Visit us in Downtown Boston and sell your designer watch today!

53 Bromfield Street, Boston, MA 02108

Call Us: (617) 542-1990

How To Sell Your Designer Watches

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How To Sell Your Designer Watches For The Best Price And Feel Like You’ve Won At Life

Owning a designer timepiece that you’re itching to sell? That’s great – there is a watch buyer at almost any corner waiting to lift your burden.

Wait… is that a good thing?

Don’t rush to it: discover these 5 must-know tips before you sell your designer watch.

Tip #1: Locate The Original Box & Papers

Even if it’s been a while since you got it, you probably still have its receipt and original packaging hidden somewhere around the house. Dig them up! They’re going to be useful in proving the authenticity of your watch.

But if have absolutely no idea where they could be, don’t panic: an expert watch buyer will still be able to assess its value based on its brand, age and working condition.

Tip #2: Research Its Approximate Worth

It’s good to know the approximate value of your piece before going to your watch buyer. A quick Google search will reveal quite a few valuable insights. Don’t get too hung up on what the Internet has to say, though – the online world breeds scammers, especially when it comes to valuable pieces like yours.

watch buyer boston

Which brings us to…

Tip #3: Keep Your Eyes Out For Scammers

Especially if we’re talking about valuable timepieces, there’ll always be someone out there just waiting for you to make a wrong move. Don’t fall for promises and always, always visit reputable places that only employ watch buying experts.

Tip #4: Don’t Sell Online

Selling your designer watch online can surely be tempting, especially when you need money fast. In fact, that’s what Ebay and Craigslist are for, right?

Wrong.

Searching for a serious watch buyer online who will pay what your piece is really worth may almost be mission impossible. Not to mention, there’s always the trust issue: will you get paid if you send the watch? With Craigslist, it can be even trickier (read: riskier), since you have to meet the buyer face to face. Shady stuff.

Tip #5: Go Local!

Sticking to brick-and-mortar businesses is your best bet, especially when said business has a proven track-record.

With over 30 years of experience, we at Boston Jewelry & Loan are a family-run jewelry store and pawnbroking business that buys all types of valuable watches, from vintage to brand new.

No more running around to find that expert watch buyer! Our extensive knowledge (plus our undying passion for timepieces) will help your discover the true value of your watch.

Visit us in Downtown Boston and sell your designer watch today!

53 Bromfield Street, Boston, MA 02108

Call Us: (617) 542-1990