Previous |
Next |
May 8, 2009, 05:42 PM ET
Texas Charity Raises Money From Discarded Jewelry
Prompted by the recession, several companies have been running television ads, often late at night, offering to buy viewers’ gold and other used or unwanted jewelry. It’s one way that out-of-work or cash-strapped individuals can make some quick money without the embarrassment of a trip to the pawn shop.
Now, according to the Austin American-Statesman, some jewelry-buying companies, like Red Swan, in Narberth, Pa., are reporting a growing interest among people who want to hold “gold parties,” inviting their friends over to donate used jewelry, have it appraised, and turn the proceeds over to charity.
Ronda Gray, a former teacher, invited five friends over for a gourmet lunch attended by Daniel Buerk, a Red Swan appraiser, the newspaper notes. He examines the pieces offered by each woman, names a price, and if they decide to sell, the proceeds are donated to the March of Dimes, in Austin.
The women get a big laugh from Mr. Buerk’s appraisal of an engagement ring donated by Ms. Gray. She broke up with the man and he never asked her to return the ring, though he had talked constantly about how valuable it was. Ms. Gray says she’s always wondered about that.
“That’s the thrill of a gold party,” the article says. “It has everything to do with the anticipation of hearing what something’s really worth.”
Turns out the ring was cubic zirconia — and worthless to Mr. Buerk. But the value of the women’s other discards totaled more than $2,000 for the local March of Dimes. A small amount, perhaps, but, as the article notes, “not bad for a lunch gathering in this economy.”
Add Your Comment
Commenting is closed.