Unfortunately, that also means a rise in gold buying scams and shady offers, especially when it comes to precious metals such as jewelry, coins, and bullion.
Before you hand over your valuables, take a minute to learn how to protect yourself and make sure you’re getting a fair deal from a reputable Amarillo gold and silver buyer.
1. Avoid Mail-In Gold Services Unless It's Your Only Option
Mail-in gold services promise top dollar, but the moment you drop your jewelry in the mail, you lose control of the transaction. If you're unhappy with their payout, getting your gold back can be complicated — or impossible.
Even if a company advertises that they pay more than local buyers, don’t be so quick to believe it. In most cases, you’ll get a much better offer by working with a trusted, local gold and silver coin exchange in Amarillo.
2. Work With a Trusted Local Dealer in Amarillo
Find a reliable gold buyer near you — ideally one with a physical office, positive reviews, and clear policies.
You can confirm their reputation by checking with the local Better Business Bureau (BBB). as well as local review sites such as Google, Facebook, Yelp, NextDoor, Angi, etc.
Just as importantly, make sure the dealer is registered and in full compliance with the State of Texas and all applicable laws. This protects you as a seller and ensures you’re dealing with a legitimate, accountable business.
At Lone Star Gold and Silver Buyers, we’re not only a trusted local gold and silver coin exchange, but also fully registered and compliant with Texas state regulations. Our clients choose us because we offer a safe, secure, no-pressure experience — completely opposite of what you might expect at a pawn shop or coin shop.
3. Go In Person If You Can
Selling your gold and silver in person gives you the upper hand. Nothing gets “lost in the mail,” and you can watch the entire process unfold in real time. You’re also free to decline any offer that doesn’t meet your expectations.
Very important: your items should never leave your sight during any part of the evaluation. You should be able to see the weighing, testing, and quoting process clearly. If a buyer tries to take your items to a back room or out of view, that’s a red flag — don’t proceed.
If you’re unable to visit a local Amarillo gold buyer yourself, ask a trusted friend or family member to go in your place — just be sure they’re informed about what you’re selling and what price range you're expecting.
4. Create an Inventory List Before You Sell
Make a list of gold and silver jewelry, bullion, coins or scrap gold you plan to sell. Review it out loud when you meet with the buyer. This shows that you’re aware of exactly what you brought — and it discourages anyone from trying to shortchange or misplace a piece.
If you’re selling coins, bars, or multiple small items, this step is especially important. It also helps the transaction feel more professional. You can also take inventory by weight in grams.
5. Bring a Small Gram Scale
You can find a digital gram scale online for just a few dollars. While most pocket-sized or consumer-grade scales aren’t exact or legal for trade, they’ll give you a solid estimate and help you feel more informed before getting an offer.
Weigh your items ahead of time and take your scale with you. If a buyer quotes you a weight that’s drastically different, pull out your scale and compare. Always ask to see the weight reading on their scale directly, especially when dealing with gold and silver bullion or heavier pieces. Important to note any business engaging in the purchase of Crafted Precious Metals must ALSO have their scales licensed with the Texas Dept. of Agriculture.
Final Thoughts
Not all Amarillo gold buyers are created equal. The next time you see a “We Buy Gold” ad pop up in your feed, make sure it’s from a local, trusted gold and silver dealer — preferably one with experience, transparency, and a secure environment.
At Lone Star Gold and Silver Buyers, we make it easy to sell your gold and silver coins, jewelry, scrap gold and silver, bullion, and more — without the pressure, gimmicks, or uncertainty of mail-in services or pawn shops. Come visit our Amarillo office and see why we’re a top-rated choice in the Texas Panhandle for those looking to sell gold and silver locally.
13480 FM 2590 (SONCY)
UNIT A
AMARILLO TX 79119
806-670-5499
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