[Even if it’s Broken, It Still Has Value] How to Make the Most of Gold and Platinum through Appraisal and Pawn Loans in Moriyama-Obata | 質屋CLOAK守山小幡店

Gold and platinum jewelry often experience wear over time — rings may bend out of shape, and necklaces or chains may break. Many people think such damaged items are “no longer usable” and decide to discard them. However, at Pawnshop CLOAK Moriyama-Obata, even broken rings or snapped chains are eligible for appraisal.

The reason broken items still hold value lies in the material-based evaluation. For gold, the purity (such as K18 or K24) is assessed; for platinum, Pt850 or Pt900 marks are checked. The appraisal value is then calculated based on purity and weight. Therefore, even if a gemstone has fallen out or a clasp is broken, the material itself retains its worth. Since the valuation depends on purity and weight rather than design or condition, even damaged jewelry stored at home can still have significant value.

At our shop, we use testing stones and precision densimeters to verify purity accurately. Platinum in particular can be difficult to identify by appearance alone, so we use specialized tools and expertise for careful assessment. Some customers hesitate, thinking, “It’s embarrassing to bring something broken” or “They might not even look at it,” but in truth, such items shouldn’t be left unused — they can still serve as valuable assets.

In addition to buying items outright, Pawnshop CLOAK Moriyama-Obata also offers pawn loans (collateral-based loans). By pawning a broken ring or chain, you can temporarily secure funds while keeping ownership of your item, with the option to redeem it later. For pieces that hold sentimental value, this approach allows you to make use of their financial worth without having to sell them.

The appraised value of gold and platinum is based on the market rate of the day, which fluctuates depending on international market conditions. Even a few days’ difference can affect the appraisal amount. When you bring in your items, we clearly present the current price so you can make an informed decision. Broken jewelry does not lose its value — rather, the material weight itself is what determines the price.

We often receive questions like, “Can you appraise just one small earring?” Absolutely. Single earrings, incomplete sets, or pieces missing parts are all acceptable for appraisal. You may be surprised to discover hidden value among items you thought were worthless.

As a community-based pawnshop, CLOAK Moriyama-Obata strives to provide a comfortable and trustworthy experience for every customer. Before throwing away broken jewelry, consider bringing it in for appraisal — it might reveal a new way to make use of your precious items. Gold and platinum maintain their intrinsic asset value regardless of condition. If you’re in Moriyama or Obata and have damaged or unused jewelry, we invite you to consult our store for professional advice and evaluation.