How to Recycle Sterling Silver Jewelry

The jewelry industry is very green; once metals are refined, they can be reused again and again. If you no longer wear sterling silver pieces, you've got a range of recycling options that allow you to get paid for recycling, trade in old silver for new silver or gift the unwanted items to someone who will appreciate them. Choose the best option that works for you, and make your silver go green.

Instructions

- 1
  Give your old jewelry to a friend or relative who will wear it. Whether you gift it to a dear friend or donate it to a young child's dress-up wardrobe, recycling through reuse gives the new owner a reminder of you, and recycles your silver.
- 2
  Take the jewelry to a thrift store, consignment shop or pawn shop. This way, you can get cash for your metal, and someone else will be able to purchase your old jewelry and enjoy it.
- 3
  Look for scrap metal buyers that take silver. Call several buyers and ask what their going rate is for sterling silver -- rates fluctuate often -- then choose a buyer with a good rate and sell the silver.
- 4
  Trade in sterling silver toward something new. Many jewelers accept old pieces as trade. Exchange sterling silver for something of equal value, or trade in your jewels then spend some money to get something you enjoy and will wear. Call local jewelers and ask if you can trade in before you go shopping.

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