Four Reasons to do business at a pawn shop.

The famous three gold balls sign of a pawnbroker's shop, above a street in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, eastern England.

If you’re one of millions of Americans who’ve never visited a pawn shop before, you may be missing out on some of the most value-oriented retail and short-term credit resources. Many consumers have preconceived ideas and misconceptions about pawn shops. However, one visit to a welcoming, upscale pawn shop will shatter those misconceptions and have you coming back again and again for the excellent customer service, friendly and knowledgeable staff and the great deals on platinum and diamond jewelry instead.

Here are four great reasons to start doing business at a pawn shop today!

1. Quick Access to Extra Cash in a Crunch– If you’re in need of emergency cash to keep the electricity running or to pay rent, a pawn loan on your platinum jewelry is the way to go. Pawn loans do not require verification of employment and can never affect your credit, even if you cannot or choose not to pay the loan back. If you’re not interested in a pawn loan, you can sell your platinum or diamond jewelry cash on the spot. Be sure to bring your government issued ID.

2. Incredible Savings – The cost of retail jewelry is rising as prices for gold, platinum and diamonds rise. Pawn shops offer great deals of platinum and diamond jewelry, gold, silver and other precious stones and metals. You can also find a wide and unique selection of other items at for much less than what you might pay in a retail shop.

3. Unique Vintage Finds – If you’re looking for the special engagement ring or something that really pops, you might be disappointed to find that most jewelry retailers have very similar selections of fine platinum and diamond jewelry. Pawn shops have very unique selections of one of a kind jewelry to fit your individual tastes, from highly ornate designs to a more classic aesthetic, and the selection changes often. You’ll find vintage, modern and click everything in between in a pawn shop’s jewelry display counter.

4. Customer Service – Pawn shops offer some of the best customer service around, because it is important for them to build long-lasting relationships with their customers. Most pawn shops are run by local business owners with an interest in supporting the community. And by shopping at an independent pawnbroker, you’ll be spending your money to support your local economy.

Find out what you’ve been missing by stopping into one of Modell’s 7 pawn shops in the New York City metro area.