If you’re searching for “parenting classes near me,” you can usually find that information by searching online or by checking with your state’s department that handles child protective services or by checking with your district’s family court. More on this below.
Social service organizations, community programs and private companies are common providers of parenting classes.
If you search “parenting classes near me,” you’ll get a list of nearby locations that offer parenting classes.
Click through your search results to find out what types of classes each provider offers, and read reviews from people who have taken them.
Where to find parenting classes “near me” in your state
To find local parenting classes, you can search “parenting classes near me” and filter through the search results to find an option that works for you.
You can also add a zip code or city to the search term for more specific results. For example: “parenting classes near me Austin” or “parenting classes near me 90001.”
Where to find court-approved parenting classes “near me”
Court-ordered parenting classes are designed for a specific purpose, whether you need to satisfy a child protective order or you’re required to take a co-parenting class to communicate more effectively after divorce, among other reasons.
These classes can help provide information and resources to create a healthier home environment for your children.
It’s important to understand that not all parenting classes satisfy the requirements for court-approved parenting classes. Your local court can provide a list of parenting classes that meet their criteria.
For example, the New York State Parent Education and Awareness Program offers a provider list for certified parenting programs on the NYCourts.gov website.
Additionally, if you find parenting classes that you think work, you can submit it to your lawyer or social worker to get pre-approval by the court.
Many districts and programs offer parenting classes in Spanish and other languages.
Where to find co-parenting classes for divorcing and separating parents “near me”
In many cases, if you’re going through a divorce or separation, you need to take court-ordered parenting classes. Some courts also require classes so that parents can maintain successful co-parenting relationships for children, whether you have an amicable divorce or you have to pursue a parallel parenting plan.
The following list shows approved parenting classes in states that require them when you are going through a divorce:
And if you live in Idaho, Minnesota, Nebraska, or Virginia, you’ll need to attend and complete a parenting class if you file for a contested divorce.
Finding court-approved parenting classes can be done by asking the court for their own list of resources. These usually include in-person and online parenting classes. If you find a class that you think meets the requirements, you can work with the court to get pre-approval.
If your schedule is better suited to an online class, you’ll find that there are plenty of court-approved options online. Our top recommendation for court-approved online parenting classes is OnlineParentingPrograms.com, but there are a variety of legit courses that are recognized in each state.
Some parenting classes are self-guided. Others are instructor-led and offer 1-on-1 coaching calls and an online community for support. Through lectures, assignments, journaling, discussion, or quizzes, each parenting class offers a comprehensive education to improve the way you interact with your children and the other parent.
These are two of our top choices for online parenting classes:
Parenting classes for all families: PositiveParentingSolutions.com
Why we like this website: *Courses for specific needs, including co-parenting, high-conflict, teens and more *Court-order certificates *Accessible and affordable pricing *Financial assistance available
Why we like this website: *Hundreds of positive user reviews and accolades from media outlets *Practical advice based in discipline research *Video, written and audio tools
If you’re regularly dating, you know how fierce the competition on dating apps can be, especially for guys. Fortunately, in a sea of bathroom selfies and generic “About Me” sections, it’s not as difficult to stand out as you might think.
Emyli Lovz, a professional matchmaker who also created a Dating Coaching Program for Men, says a good dating profile should be thoughtfully curated and allow you to present the best version of yourself.
She recommends thinking about your dating profile like a movie trailer.
“You want the women who look at your profile to be really excited when they see the trailer to your movie,” she says.
These are some tips to improve your dating profile:
Tinder bios for guys: 7 tips to enhance your profile
If you’re looking for a quality match on Tinder, these are some tips to make your profile stand out:
1. Give specific details about who you are.
Lovz says dating apps use an algorithm to pair you with other matches based on what you write.
If you use vague keywords or barely fill out your profile, then you’ll get matched with other vague profiles, and you likely won’t find compatible matches.
Generalizations like “I like to travel and hike” don’t paint a picture of who you are as a person, Lovz says.
“Your profile needs to focus on who you are through the things you love, the things that are important to you, and the things that make you unique,” says Eric Resnick, a dating coach and founder of ProfileHelper.com.
He says guys shouldn’t be afraid to include interests that are more unique or less universally liked. If you’re a guy who goes to trivia nights, owns five cats, loves live theater, or plays in chess tournaments, put that in your profile!
A guy on Reddit asked women to name some of the most annoying/overused phrases they see on men’s dating profiles. These are some of their answers:
“I hate writing these things”
“I’m a laid back guy”
“I don’t play games”
“Good at massages”
“Good listener”
“Ask me” / “Just ask”
“Looking for a girl who doesn’t take herself too seriously”
“Fluent in sarcasm
“I like working out”
“Work hard play hard”
“Lol” / “Haha”
(If you take no other advice from this article, please don’t write “Just ask” in your bio.)
2. Pick the right photos.
Lovz says the best pictures are ones that represent who you are. In them, you should be:
Smiling, with a warm and inviting expression
Using direct eye contact, which communicates trust
Lovz also recommends choosing photos that demonstrate your passions, hobbies, and interests.
“Your profile should stand out from the competition by showcasing what makes you uniquely you,” she says.
This Reddit user offered some more advice about selecting photos for your Tinder profile:
Whether you want to find something casual, you’re looking to date a cougar, or you want to eventually get married, being upfront and honest about your intentions will get you more compatible matches.
Worried about coming on too strong?
“You can still say that you’re looking for a long-term relationship without making it like a high-pressure situation,” Lovz says.
4. Don’t forget to spell check.
It’s those little details that show you’re serious about dating, Resnick says:
“Careless typos make you look sloppy and like you don’t care. It might not seem like a big deal to you, but I have heard from literally thousands of daters who consider that to be a turn-off.”
5. Use humor with caution.
It’s hard to decipher vocal tone or inflection through an app. For example, if you’re dry and sarcastic in your bio, people probably won’t pick up on your humor when they’re quickly swiping through profiles.
You also shouldn’t try too hard to be witty.
“Women generally appreciate a funny or clever profile, but when you force it, you don’t sound funny or clever,” Resnick says. “You just sound like you are trying too hard and like you don’t have a real personality of your own.”
6. Be genuine.
The best tip for creating a good Tinder bio is to be yourself.
“The biggest mistake that guys make on dating profiles is that they are trying to sell themselves in a place where no one wants to feel like they have to be convinced to like you,” Resnick says.
Ready to write your bio but not sure where to start? Check out these examples of good Tinder bios for guys:
“Life plan: retire in 8 years in Bali…drink too much rosé, eat at every Anthony Bourdain top pick in Asia, ship in Sprinkles mini cupcakes, date my best friend, rescue 101 puppies, and have rambunctious surfer children who get scholarships to Ivy League Schools.”
This dating profile is “really getting into the nitty gritty of what makes this person unique, how they’re different from other people, and it shows that they really know what they want and where they’re going,” Lovz says.
According to Lovz, saying what you love to do is going to help you appeal to your intended audience. It’s a good step in building a meaningful connection.
“Outgoing, athletic, loves to laugh, successful, motivated and confident. Looking for that one.”
“This is a great example of something to add to your profile where it really speaks to who you’re looking to attract,” Lovz says. “Using keywords that really define your ideal partner and that you’re looking for [them] is going to be really powerful because it shows that you know what you want and you’re going after it.”
Resnick recommends choosing prompts that you actually have something to say about.
“Don’t waste your profile with an answer that no one would want to talk about,” Resnick says.
Here are some good and bad examples of prompt responses:
Here are some more examples of good Tinder bios:
“Playing lots of board games. Wishing I could kayak more. Raising sea monkeys. Watching paint dry. Video games. Avoiding the shitshow that is Trump.”
“Let’s go DO something!
Let’s go have a drink. Or shoot some pool. Or play darts, or visit the gun range, or drive go-karts. Let’s take a day trip to check out breweries, or stay in on a rainy Sunday and get lost in a Netflix series.
Let’s get off this app and do something.”
“I like swearing and adventure.
I have funny looking tan lines from biking and swimming. My craft beer habit would be much cheaper if I just brewed more of my own. Been to enough concerts that I’ll probably ask you ‘what??’ often. Nerdy engineer, but not like…TOO nerdy, you know? I share a birthday with Mr. Rogers and I think that says a lot about me.
As Lovz and Resnick both mentioned, humor can work in a dating profile if used carefully and sparingly. Below are examples of funny dating profiles that are both effective and expert-approved:
“Notable Life Achievements:
– Can cook amazing instant noodles
– Semi-professional bathroom singer
– Has never been in jail before (except when playing monopoly”
“Recovering musician, fell back on a successful career in real estate. Bad ass at this single dad thing. Dad bod (currently). Endless puns and dad jokes. A good relationship: Lots of laughing, calm communication, and a mild addiction to affection.
Potential Cons: (unless you’re perfect) Picky eater, neat freak, smokes weed, my two girls are my whole entire world, takes pictures of everything – especially street art and nature, science nerd, obsessive Kings fan, works a lot.”
“If you like bad boys then I’m the guy for you, cause I’m bad at everything.”
“Where the Venn diagram of Ira Glass and Johnny Cash overlaps. Musician. Engineer. Jon Stewart liberal. Hockey player/fan. My long term life goals skew towards travel and experiences over things.”
Bottom line: Best Tinder bios for guys
The best Tinder bios for guys are the ones that are specific and genuine. That’s why it’s worth taking the time to thoughtfully craft your dating profile.
Sometimes, it’s a process of trial and error, so don’t be afraid to play around with prompts or get creative to see what works.
“You aren’t trying to attract everyone,” Lovz says. “In fact, your profile should repel the people who aren’t compatible with you and help you connect only with the ones with whom you are a good fit.”
A good dating profile will set you up with meaningful connections that will hopefully turn into something more than a swipe right — if that’s what you’re looking for.
Not into Tinder? Check out our review of these other top dating sites and apps:
I go out with single dads and childless men alike, and some of the latter admit (while others appear) to be uncertain about the logistics of dating a single mom.
On one hand, Dude, dating a woman with kids is just like dating other women! Proceed as normal!
On the other, our lives are likely both wonderful and challenging in ways that childless women’s are not.
If you landed here, you are likely interested in dating single moms because:
You’re a single parent, too, so you want to connect with someone who understands your jam (single moms want to date single dads, too, btw)
You don’t have kids, and feel too old to be a dad to a newborn (and are keeping it real about the realities of babymaking with a much, much younger woman), but would like to be a father — in this case, a stepfather to older kids
You just tend to be attracted to moms, and you can’t figure out why.
You have feels for a single mom in particular, and you are unsure on how to move forward.
Here’s everything you need to know about dating a single mom:
Of course, there are tens of millions of single moms in the United States alone — far be it from me to generalize all of them! Some want a fabulous, low-commitment physical connection. Others are looking for a fun date, a hiking partner, or someone to share a hobby with.
If we’re talking about a serious relationship, here are some common themes that I hear single moms seek out in a man:
Reliable. Single moms have a lot of responsibilities, and have little time for people who cancel last minute, are late, or otherwise don’t do what they say they will. Is this you? Next!
You’re a good listener — and talker! Single moms often complain of loneliness, and lack of adult conversation. She may need a break from being needed and listening, and would love to be heard. But also don’t expect her to carry the conversation.
Have your life together. Of course not everyone is at the top of their professional/fitness/personal game all the time, but in general you have a job, a grip on your personal finances, take care of your body, keep your house tidy, and are in general an adult.
Low drama. If you’re wrapped up in a high-conflict ex mania, that just says you are really emotionally not available to the woman you are interested in. She likely has an ex, too, and can’t handle a lot more conflict.
You are an equal parent. Now, I know very well that family courts, our culture and society are sexist, and marginalize fathers, and this is a travesty. Perhaps you have minority time with your kids, or are alienated by the other parent. However, your current love interest wants to see that you either do have, or have fought hard to have equal time and take equal responsibility for your kids. Otherwise, you are sexist and that is not OK.
Emyli Lovz, co-founder of emlovz, a dating coaching and matchmaker service based in San Francisco, says based on her experience, these are some things single moms are looking for in a man:
He’s understanding
Has his life together
Financially secure
Emotionally available
Provides safety and stability
This is what real single moms are looking for in a man, from Facebook and Reddit:
“I was a single mom for a time between my divorce and my current husband. He won me over by understanding my children were a priority. Understanding that no one would be meeting my kids unless I thought that relationship was really going somewhere and that meant my availability would be very limited. With my situation my girls’ dad is very involved (50/50). They had a dad and he wouldn’t be a “replacement”. It also meant understanding that I would be in frequent contact with my ex and remembering that he’s an ex for a reason. Meaning that even though we may message about the kids and see each other that there was no romance there so acting all jealous and making demands was a no. Being thoughtful with the kids and making an effort.”
“Don’t approach dating a single mum as being an instant family. I dated a few men who gave that vibe and it instantly made sure they never went neeeeear my kids. Not that any man did as I was dead against men meeting my kids unless I was sure and the only man to ever meet them has been their dad most of their lives and we’ve since had another with one more on the way. Flexibility matters. I was always prepared to drop and run on him if I needed to get back to my kids. If I got a call saying I needed to get to them I went, he had to be understanding of that because no matter what kids come first. If he’d expected to come first he’d have been dropped like a ball. Has to understand that ex is in the picture for life because, kids. Time was also mega limited as bio dad isn’t a regular over nighter for the boys. He could go a month or more without seeing me. We could call and chat etc but unless I actually had free time there wasn’t the ability to spend time together. It’s harder by far in those circumstances.”
“In both a man and a relationship; mutual respect, loyalty, care and independence. The last means that we aren’t relying solely on each other for friendship, support and engagement. Go out with your friends. Have hobbies or interests I don’t necessarily share. We can have a happy healthy relationship where we don’t have to share everything all the time.
Someone who is goal driven, kind to everyone, can manage life on his own, emotionally & financially stable, communicates, respects me & my choices and doesn’t need my constant attention or question my every move. In a relationship: respectful of our time and goals, encouraging, loyal, willing and able to communicate and work through things, has a few of the same interests so that we can spend some quality time together or be able to have things to talk about.
Moms are human women just like other human women! Single moms do face a lot of societal pressure to martyr themselves for their children, to shield their kids from any man they date — as well as remarry ASAP. That said, more moms than ever are dating freely and confidently, as well as paying their own bills.
So, just date her — no special qualifications required.
What are the benefits of dating a single mom? This is what real men on Reddit have to say:
“I love kids and would get to be an influential part of their lives. I would also be able to see first hand what kind of parent they are so I can see if they’re the type of person I would want to have kids with.”
“They always have snacks.”
“You get to help parent their kid and be a more proactive parent in that child’s life than their original parent most of the time. i hear all the time about kids saying that their stepmom or stepdad was a huge part of their upbringing and that they see them as a parent because they were that important to them, and they credit a lot of their successes as a person to that person.”
“The mothers tend to be more mature and secure, and it’s not something I put a lot of thought in to – aside from thinking about the added and steadily growing responsibility of helping with the child.”
“I think for some men, if you already have kids, it takes away from the ‘baby fever’ some women get. So there’s less pressure to 100% commit because that “hurdle” is out of the way. Bro science, could be wrong.”
“I just got out of a relationship with a single mom. She had a 5-year old. For me, her daughter was the best part of the relationship. It was brand new for me and scary but it added so much meaning to my life. I am someone who has always thought he didn’t want kids but this experience changed my opinion dramatically. I also thought to myself many times that this could be the perfect way for me to have a child in my life but not actually have to commit to making one myself. If things had worked out with her mom I think this would have been true. I would definitely date a single mom again-the biggest thing is making sure there’s no drama or lingering feelings with the other parent. Which I suspect is kinda rare.”
How to ask a single mom out — and how to date a single mom
Helpful tips on how to connect, the logistics, meeting her kids ….
1. Ask her out ASAP — single moms are busy!
Leave the ask to the last minute, she has to scramble to find a sitter and that’s really uncool.
Plus, it tells her (and any other woman, for that matter) that she was your Plan B for the evening.
Which she may be. But if you really want to see her and invest time in getting to know her, give the woman plenty of time to sort out her schedule.
If she wants to date you, she will find a way to make it work.
2. Ask about her kids
She won’t assume you’re a pedophile.
This shows interest in one of the most important things in her life.
In fact, if you DON’T appear interested in her family she’ll think that you’re not into kids.
3. Let her know you love kids — especially if you’re a childless man
Assuming it’s true.
Sounds cliche’, but I always appreciate it when a guy goes on about how much he adores his niece or spends time with a friend’s baby.
When a guy laughs at my funny-kid story, or is sympathetic about my mom worries, I’m in.
4. Don’t assume she is broke just because she’s a single mom
Maybe she is broke, but don’t assume.
5. Don’t assume single moms’ kids need a new dad
They have a dad, or they don’t.
You are not being interviewed to be a parent — you are being interviewed for your potential to be a romantic partner.
Of course, that could involve — way, way down the road — being a part of a family with children.
These things are complicated, I know.
Bear with us. But just follow her lead here.
6. If you’re out and she is paying for a sitter it is really nice if you get the check
This isn’t necessary, and especially after you have been involved for a while you will likely sort out the who-pays-when conundrum.
But if you tend to take turns picking up the bill, but she sometimes rearranges her life to get out of the house and pays for a babysitter so she can spend time with you, acknowledge that.
7. Be patient on asking about visitation schedules
Of course, you want to know when she is free, if she has the kids all the time and whether the dad is involved.
But if you explicitly ask for these details on the first or second date you will appear reluctant about dating a woman with kids.
Which you may be – but if you ask too fast, she will know.
But she wants to feel like you’re interested in her in every part of her womanhood — including motherhood.
8. Don’t assume she’s not free when her kids are home
Women like to be asked out. If you’re interested and want to see her, ask her out.
If she prefers not to go out when her kids are home or doesn’t like to hire a babysitter on school nights, she’ll tell you. Because she may be dying for a good reason to hire a sitter, or take her brother up on his offer to watch the kids or otherwise go out and spend time with you.
If you don’t ask her out — no matter how innocuous or considerate the reason — she will assume you don’t want to see her.
If it has been more than a few months, or things get very serious very quickly, and she hasn’t brought up introducing the kids, bring it up.
10. Know that when she invites you over, it is more work for her than when you invite her over
Yes, moms are really efficient and they’re used to doing a lot of cooking and cleaning.
But if a single mom invites you over for dinner — whether a romantic evening for two, or with her kids — she had to clean up a whole lot of Legos and finger paint and string cheese wrappers and wrangles in an extra trip to the market and wine store to make it happen.
It may appear effortless, but effortless actually takes more effort.
11. Respect that it’s a big deal when she introduces you to her kids
She is opening up her life and her whole family’s life to you.
Don’t ask to come over when her kid are asleep. Just don’t.
“That’s great your mom lives in town so you can leave your kids with her on weekends.”
“I am really loving this time of my life since my kids went away to college.”
“Wow, you look good considering you had two kids.”
“Kids need a man in the house.”
“You had a C-section? That’s awesome.”
“You don’t even have stretch marks!”
“Your ex-husband lives in the neighborhood? Is his place near here [looking over both shoulders]? Do you ever run into him? Does he hate that you date? Has he ever beat up your boyfriends? Have your kids met any men you’ve dated? How did they react? Did they resent him?”
“Did you get your tubes tied?”
“How much child support do you get?”
“When guys marry single moms and their daughters grow into teenagers, I don’t know how they can control themselves.”
“My ex has a lot of issues so I really want to get married so my daughter has a new mom.”
“Do you masturbate while your kids are home?”
“Not a lot of guys are interested in women with kids, you know.”
Interested in getting to know someone on a second date?
Commit this list to memory and never ever utter a single one of them.
First date tips — good conversation starters
Some real-life advice from members of the Millionaire Single Moms Facebook group:
Comedianne Whitney Cummings shared her ‘Red-Flag Dating Test’ on Jimmy Kimmel for good questions and conversation starters for a first date:
1. “What’s your favorite color? How would you describe it/Why is it your favorite?”
2. “What’s your favorite animal? How would you describe it/Why is it your favorite?”
3. “What’s your favorite body of water? Can be as specific as Lake Erie at 7am, or as general as the ocean. Why is it your favorite/Describe it?”
BONUS: “If you imagine yourself waking up in a completely white room with no windows or doors, how you would feel?”
“Books currently reading, places lived/traveled, movies, and football for me. I try to steer away from what you do as I live in DC and that’s all most folx care about.”
“I usually tell a story about something funny I did with friends and that usually leads to more story telling…unless they have the personality of an empty dinner plate then it may go nowhere!”
“I like to ask if they know what their love language is… tells me how they best receive affection AND that they’ve done self work both of which are important to me. I’ve also started throwing in asking what their attachment style is.”
“What invention are you most frustrated you didn’t think of first? (Mine: individually wrapped toothpicks and pool noodles.)”
What to expect when dating a single mom
Insights when dating a single mom in her 20s
A single mom in her 20s might want more kids, just be starting her career and/or going to school. Or, not. She is young, and so is her body, so she has a lot of dating options.
A single mom in her 30s might want more kids, could be in any stage of professional and financial security — including being very established in both her profession and bank account. Or, not.
Insights when dating a single mom in her 40s
Probably doesn’t want any more biological kids of her own, knows a lot about who she is and what she wants and is likely seeking someone in a similar situation — though many moms in this stage of life enjoy great, casual sex lives, including with younger men.
Just like any other person, some moms are not ready for dating. If you are in interested in a single mom, here are some dating red flags to look out for:
Talks about her ex all the time. She has not healed or moved on. Even if she co-parents with her kids’ dad, she still needs some space and boundaries before she is ready for you.
Terrified of her kids seeing or even knowing that she dates. This is a woman whose ideas around dating and sex are stuck in another era — one in which women are either whores or mothers. And/or she is not ready to date and is using her kids as a barrier to being hurt again.
She’s broke and expects you to fix that. There are indeed gold diggers out there. If that is not your jam, and your woman makes it clear that she has no interest in financial independence in your relationship, bolt!
Bottom line: Is it worth dating a single mom?
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again — every single mom is different, and your experience dating one single mom may be drastically different than dating another. That being said, if you are someone who understands and is willing to put the time and effort into dating a woman with a kid, you can have a meaningful and lasting relationship — if that’s what you’re looking for.
For serious relationships, eharmony is our No. 1 choice dating site because:
A rating from the Better Business Bureau (accredited)
Vetted profiles to prove they are a real person and not married
Moms are human women just like other human women! Single moms do face a lot of societal pressure to martyr themselves for their children, to shield their kids from any man they date — as well as remarry ASAP. That said, more moms than ever are dating freely and confidently, as well as paying their own bills.
Is it worth dating a single mom?
Every single mom is different, and your experience dating one single mom may be drastically different than dating another. That being said, if you are someone who understands and is willing to put the time and effort into dating a single mom, you can have a meaningful and lasting relationship — if that’s what you’re looking for.
Symbols stamped on jewelry can help you learn where your jewelry is from, when it was made, what metals it’s made of, and most importantly, how much it’s worth.
These question are more pressing than ever since both gold and silver prices hit record highs, week after week. Even an orphaned earring or silver chain can be worth hundreds of dollars.
Some are very common, while others are obscure. So many people have emailed us and commented on this post, and our researchers spend ongoing hours answering your questions and updating this post! This especially true now as gold and silver prices keep climbing to new record highs — so that old necklace, bracelet ring or earring is worth more than ever.
What does this MEAN? How to identify markings stamped on jewelry
Gold, silver, and platinum jewelry can be stamped or engraved with a number of small marks, usually placed in discreet places — like the back of an earring, inside of a bracelet or engagement ring, or on the clasp of a necklace or chain.
Here’s what common symbols stamped on jewelry actually mean:
Purity
Most fine jewelry is made of a metal alloy — a mixture of a precious metal like gold or silver combined with other metals to improve its durability (like yellow gold, white gold, sterling silver, etc.). These metals are too soft on their own to be used in jewelry.
Gold jewelry is often marked with a number followed by a K to show how much pure gold it contains, also known as its caratage. The higher the number, the higher the percentage of pure gold (and the more expensive):
Sterling silver is an alloy of 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper or nickel (copper is most common).
Even platinum is mixed with other metals in smaller quantities to make jewelry, typically between 1-5%.
While these markings are highly regulated and required in most of Europe, the United States does not require them.
However, the National Gold and Silver Stamping Act of 1906 does aim to prevent jewelry manufacturers from misrepresenting the “actual fineness” (purity) of the metal alloy it’s made of — whether the piece itself is marked or it’s sold with a tag or in a box that indicates its purity.
In 1948, jewelry was included in the definition of artistic craftsmanship under U.S. copyright law and was officially protected under the Copyright Act of 1976. Some more modern jewelry pieces may be marked with a circled C (usually next to the manufacturer’s name or symbol) to indicate its design is copyrighted.
Before jewelry obtained copyright protection, however, jewelry makers had to apply for patents to protect their designs from being copied by competitors. Some older pieces of jewelry — like antique or estate jewelry — may be marked with the letter D followed by several numbers, which indicate the piece has a design patent.
You can search the patent number marked on your jewelry on the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office website to find out what year it was patented. If the patent number is less than seven digits, enter zero after the D for each digit less than seven (for example, D123 on a piece of jewelry would be entered as D0000123 in the search).
Maker’s markings
Maker’s markings are stamped on jewelry to indicate a piece’s authenticity. These marks are typically of the manufacturer’s initials, name, or a symbol that represents their brand.
Jewelry with the following maker’s markings have a high resale value:
What do the letters and numbers on my gold jewelry mean?
The most common mark on gold jewelry signifies its purity (the percentage of pure gold it contains). This is indicated by a number followed by a K or ct.
List of letter markings on gold jewelry
24k, 24ct, 999.9, or 999
99.9% pure gold
22k, 22ct, 916 or 917
91.6-91.7% pure gold, 8.3-8.4% other metals
18k, 18ct, or 750
75% pure gold, 25% other metals
14k, 14ct, 583 or 585
58.3-58.5% pure gold, 41.5-41.7% other metals
10k, 10ct, 416 or 417
41.6-41.7% pure gold, 58.3-58.4% other metals
Gold-filled, GF
A layer of karat gold mechanically bonded to another metal. Under FTC guidance, the gold layer makes up at least 1/20 of the item’s metal weight.
Gold-plated or gold electroplate
A layer of gold applied over another metal. Gold electroplate specifically refers to gold applied using an electrolytic process.
What do the letters and numbers on my silver jewelry mean?
Silver jewelry is usually stamped with a three-digit number to indicate the purity of the silver it contains. The most common marking on silver jewelry is 925, which indicates the jewelry is made of sterling silver — an alloy of 92.5% silver and 7.5% of another metal (typically copper).
This affects a piece’s value. For example, at a price of $76.81 per ounce (the going rate as of Jan. 5, 2026), a 1-ounce piece of pure silver would be worth about $75, while a 1-ounce piece of sterling silver would be worth about $65.
Here is a pic of the back of a silver necklace from an ex-boyfriend (um, I only wear yellow gold, dude!), stamped “STERLING”:
Unusual jewelry symbols — mystery solved
Our readers asked us to help decipher some lesser-known symbols on jewelry. Most of them indicate the brand of jewelry, also known as a maker’s mark. We will continue adding to this list based on user comments:
Symbol
Meaning
NRO
NRO is a brand of fashion jewelry. Most pieces are listed for sale on resale sites like ebay and Poshmark.
TD
Likely a maker’s mark from a jewelry maker. Possibilities include: Thomas Daniell, Thomas Dealtry, Thomas Dicks, Thomas Diller, or Thomas Ducrow
5R
5R is a color grade of ruby, which indicates it is dark, deep, or strong red. Other ruby color grades include: 2.5R (vivid red), 8.75R (pinkish red) and 7.5RP (purplish red)
IWI
Maker’s mark for Imperial World Inc.
Circled N
Potential maker’s mark for Noble & Co. F.H., though the N could also indicate the year the jewelry was assayed
BF
Likely a maker’s mark for B.F. HIRSCH
FN
Likely a maker’s mark from a jewelry maker. Possibilities include: Francis Nelme, Francis Nisbet, Frederick Narborough, F.N. Walker, or Frank Neville
TH
Potentially a maker’s mark from a jewelry maker. Possibilities include: Theodor Herz, Th. Hoeboer, and Therese Hulwa. TH could also indicate the piece was made in Thailand.
960
Mark that represents Argentium Silver, which is made up of 96% silver
VI
VI may indicate the piece was made in the Italian town of Vincenza
SI
Likely a maker’s mark from a jewelry maker. Possibilities include: Salomon Infeld or Sigmund Isser
QG
Likely a maker’s mark for Quality Gold, Inc.
The following books may also help you learn what other hallmarks on your jewelry mean:
No, jewelry is not always stamped. Though countries like the United Kingdom have laws that require precious metal jewelry to be stamped with its caratage, the U.S. does not currently require jewelers to stamp purity marks on precious metals (though it does have laws to prevent jewelers from misrepresenting metal purity).
If you have gold-colored jewelry without a stamp, you can test to see if it’s real gold in a few ways (or you can get a jewelry appraisal):
Hold it in a lighter flame — real gold will get bright hot after a while but will not darken (other metals will darken, and gold plating will melt off).
Test it with a strong magnet — gold is not magnetic.
Put it in water — real gold will not float and will not rust.
Wear it — real gold jewelry will not turn your skin black or green.
How do you read hallmarks?
Jewelry hallmarks are often written as a combination of numbers, letters, and symbols. Here’s how to read them:
Numbers – Three-digit numbers stamped on jewelry represent its purity. For example, 583 stamped on a piece of gold jewelry indicates the jewelry contains 58.3% pure gold (which means it is 14k gold). Silver jewelry might be stamped with 950, which represents Brittania sterling silver (95% pure silver).
Letters – Letter stamps represent the year a piece of jewelry was hallmarked, in a font that changes every 26 years (after the 26 letters have been cycled through). In 2000, the letters started at A again (the year 2022 is represented by an X).
Symbols – Hallmarks indicate jewelry has been certified and authenticated by an assay office, which tests the purity of precious metal jewelry. Each assay office has its own unique symbol that is stamped on the jewelry it assays. If you find a leopard head stamped on your jewelry, for example, you know it was certified by the London assay office.
Across most of Europe, hallmarks are required by law. However, they are not required or regulated in the United States. Some U.S. jewelry companies have their jewelry assayed in Europe to be able to sell it abroad.
Which hallmark gold is best?
999 or 999.9 hallmarked gold represents gold that is at least 99.9% pure, which makes it the most valuable. However, gold with this purity is considered too soft for jewelry making. 916 or 22k gold, which is 91.6% pure, is considered the purest gold suitable for jewelry.
If you are looking to sell any precious metal jewelry, we recommend selling to CashforGoldUSA.com or its sister site, CashforSilverUSA.com. Both sites offer:
Payouts within 24 hours
A+ Better Business Bureau rating
100% free door-to-door, trackable FedEx or USPS shipping
Purchases with no minimum value
Price match guarantee
Free Jewelers’ Mutual insurance up to $150,000 per shipment
What do the letters stamped on my gold jewelry mean?
The most common mark on gold jewelry signifies its purity (the percentage of pure gold it contains). This is indicated by a number followed by a K or ct.
What do the letters stamped on my silver jewelry mean?
Silver jewelry is usually stamped with a three-digit number to indicate the purity of the silver it contains. The most common marking on silver jewelry is 925, which indicates the jewelry is made of sterling silver.
Does gold jewelry always have a stamp?
No, gold jewelry is not always stamped. Though countries like the United Kingdom have laws that require precious metal jewelry to be stamped with its caratage, the U.S. does not currently require jewelers to stamp purity marks on precious metals.
Which hallmark gold is best?
999 or 999.9 hallmarked gold represents gold that is at least 99.9% pure, which makes it the most valuable. However, gold with this purity is considered too soft for jewelry making. 916 or 22k gold, which is 91.6% pure, is considered the purest gold suitable for jewelry.
If you’re patient and have a sense of adventure, metal detecting can be an exciting way to make a little extra money on the side. At its best, it’s a hobby — not a way to earn a full-time living — but there is potential to find valuables you can cash in on.
Keep reading to learn all about metal detecting for beginners:
If metal detecting is worth doing and how to cash in what you find
What items you can expect to find
The best places to metal detect (and where it’s illegal)
Which metal detecting equipment you should buy
Continue reading on making money through metal detecting:
In most cases, metal detecting is not sustainable as a full-time job, but rather as a fun hobby or side gig to make some extra cash.
This is the case for a woman named Kay who goes by She Detector. The She Detector YouTube channel is dedicated to Kay’s metal detecting adventures.
“I watched a video on YouTube showing some guy in another country using a handheld Vibra-Tector in a river finding coins and such,” she says “I thought it was super cool, so I was like, I wanna give that a try!”
She launched her metal detecting journey in 2015, starting her YouTube channel alongside her newfound hobby, and she now has nearly 30,000 subscribers.
Kay bought a $1,500 underwater metal detector (a Garrett Sea Hunter Mark II) and started recording her adventures. She detects for about three hours each week but invests roughly 30 hours a month editing videos and engaging with her followers. Right now, she makes about $150 each month from her channel.
Her most valuable find was a men’s platinum wedding band worth $1,000 found on a Florida beach. However, Kay didn’t cash it in but was able to get the ring back to its rightful owner. You can watch her discovery in this video:
“I’ve never cashed anything in,” she says. “I still have all the real jewelry that I’ve found and I still have all the coins that I’ve found.”
For Kay, the thrill is in finding hidden treasures — though she admits one day she may cash in on her haul.
Her advice to beginners:
Start with the basics: You don’t need the most expensive gear when you begin metal detecting because you can find most things with a cheap, entry-level machine
Research your area: If you will start metal detecting in your area find out what the laws are to make sure you are practicing the hobby legally
Have fun: Metal detecting is for everyone and can be a fulfilling activity for all ages
She says metal detecting is worth her time because it’s fun and exciting (you never know what you’ll find), she gets to interact with other enthusiasts, and she’s willing to put in the time and effort into this side hustle to grow it into something bigger.
Over on the r/metaldetecting subreddit, hobbyists share how much they have made from unearthing treasures. Some have profited a few hundred dollars to a few thousand over time:
Tools you’ll need for metal detecting treasure hunting
If you want to make legitimate money as a beginner metal detector, you’ll need professional-grade equipment and a daily plan to hunt for gold and other precious metals in strategic locations. Note that you can’t dig on most state, federal, and private property without permission — and some places are prohibited altogether.
It will likely take you a while to turn a profit from metal detecting, considering the cost of equipment and any money spent traveling to your detecting destinations. If you’re serious about metal detecting, you’ll need:
One or two metal detectors (one as a backup in case one detector stops working while you are out searching): $75-$500 each on Amazon, though some higher-end models like this OKM Fusion Light 3D Metal Detector cost several thousand dollars (keep reading to learn more about what you get with more expensive detectors)
Spot locator to pinpoint where metals are buried: $20-$120 on Amazon
You can use a metal detector to find gold and other metals in the form of gold coins, silver coins, jewelry and sell them for cash to a top online gold buyer like CashforGoldUSA — which has an A+ Better Business Bureau rating and is our top recommendation for selling gold scrap online.
CashforGoldUSA also accepts other metals like silver, platinum, and palladium.
You might also find historically significant items like old Civil War bullets that can be sold to a pawn shop or antique dealer — as long as you can legally take them from the site where you found them.
Note that most federal military parks and burial grounds prohibit metal detecting. Even having a metal detector in your vehicle within one of these parks could result in fines or arrest. Do your homework before metal detecting — whether it is on federal, state, or private property — and obtain any necessary permits or permissions.
What can you find with a metal detector?
If you’re searching on a public beach, for example, you’re likely to find:
Coins are one of the fastest ways to earn money because people tend to lose them frequently, according to MetalDetector.com, a 40+ year metal detector business and pioneer online retailer of metal detectors.1 Rings are another frequently lost item.
Check out this video where a metal detector found nine wedding rings underwater:
The history of an area may also dictate what you can find. For example, if you have permission to metal detect at an old home site, you might find:
***Important note: The National Park Service prohibits metal detecting on most federal military parks and burial grounds. Even having a metal detector in your car in one of these areas could lead to fines or even arrest.
However, as long as you seek permission from private property owners, obtain permits, and follow any metal detecting guidelines (like the types of tools you can and can’t use), private property that surrounds historic sites can be rich with artifacts.
Also follow specific guidelines for what to do with any discovered artifacts. Some places may want you to leave them untouched, while others may ask that you turn them into local authorities/property owners for historical preservation.
If you have permission to take historic artifacts from your detecting site, you should have an antique dealer evaluate any items you find to ensure they aren’t worth more than their scrap metal value.
Yes, a metal detector can find gold. Even though gold is non-ferrous (not magnetic), most quality metal detectors have a setting to detect gold and other non-ferrous metals including aluminum, copper, tin, brass, or bronze. Before you buy a metal detector, verify that it can detect gold.
Tips for detecting gold
Your best chance of detecting metal is in well-traveled or highly populated areas. Here are our top tips for finding gold scrap:
Research areas before you start. Know the laws that govern those areas, and get permission to search, including obtaining any necessary permits. Some state and federal lands are off limits to metal detecting.
Contact your local United States Geological Survey (USGS) office for a list of places where you can legally search for gold deposits in your state with a metal detector. Search “USGS office near me.” Some locations may be off limits, require permits, and prosecute violators.
Research and buy the right metal detector for your needs and learn how to use it properly. You should get one that specifically detects gold.
Test your metal detector with a gold ring or necklace. It’ll give you an idea of what it sounds like to detect gold. You can try this with other metals, too.
Sweep the area, slowly keeping your coil near the ground. The coil is at the bottom of the metal detector. It’s usually circular, but can come in different shapes.
Buy the right accessories and tools, such as a hand shovel, scoop, pick hammer, and pouch. These tools will help you dig, sort, and store your finds.
Consider using metal detecting headphones. They can make it easier to hear the sounds of your metal detector, especially if you are in a crowded area.
Work with a partner when looking for gold so that you can cover more ground.
Try not to wear metal on detecting days, and keep your cellphone off to avoid interference.
Join an online or local metal detecting club or gold prospecting club to learn tips for searching and places to check out.
Be patient. It will take time to learn how to use your equipment and find the right places.
Here are some metal detecting tips for beginners:
Where is gold most commonly found?
People commonly find gold in or near bodies of water, like lakes, rivers, streams, and creeks. Check these areas after significant rainfall because soil erosion can shift gold or metal scrap.
Larger bodies of water like oceans and seas are also excellent places to look. Of course, you’ll need a waterproof detector or a waterproof coil (the part at the bottom of a metal detector).
Wherever large numbers of people spend time, you’re sure to find lost gold, silver, and even diamond items — just make sure you are legally allowed to metal detect wherever you go.
How deep can metal detectors detect gold?
The depth will be determined by the type of metal detector you use, where you are using it, and the size of the gold piece. For example, a 3D ground-scanning metal detector can find objects buried 30 feet or more underground. But such detectors can cost $5,000 or more.
A more affordable detector can detect gold that is anywhere from 6 inches to 2 feet under dirt or sand.
Where is the best place to metal detect?
That depends on where you live, but in general, any area where many people gather is best (and where you are legally allowed to go).
Consider areas like:
Parks
School grounds
Sports fields
Fairgrounds
Beaches
Campgrounds
Ski lifts
Rest areas on highways
Old churches
Abandoned neighborhoods
Old drive-in movie spaces
Beaches are a good place to start metal detecting because they experience a fair amount of traffic. Kay says beach hunting involves using a metal detector anywhere on the beach, from the dry sandy shoreline to wet sand right at the water’s edge.
She says a waterproof detector isn’t necessary because the coils on most detectors (the part that touches the sand and detects the metals) can get wet with no issues. You just have to be careful to not drop the machine in the water.
“Some detectors might be a bit ‘chatty’ in the wet-ish sand due to salt water,” she says, referring to the sound a detector emits as it searches. “But for the most part, every machine will do fine at the beach.”
Kay says that the best spots are in what is called the “umbrella zone,” the area where people set up or rent an umbrella and chairs.
“People normally take off their jewelry and empty their pockets on their towels,” she says. “At the end of the day, they forget they did that, and they go to shake off their towels, and everything goes flying into the sand.”
She says it’s best to go in the evening after most people leave the beach, since some beaches rake the sand in the morning to clean up garbage and may scoop up valuable finds.
Kay says even if you don’t find anything cool and amazing, you’re still helping to get trash off of the ground, off the beach, and out of the water.
“That is worth it to me to keep some poor sea creature from ingesting it,” Kay says.
Her “She Detector” YouTube channel spends a lot of time detecting on Florida beaches:
You can use the USGS Mineral Resources Data System (MRDS) search to find gold claims by state. Research the area to find out if it is open to metal detecting and whether you need to obtain permits to search/dig on the land.
Can you metal detect in the woods?
Assuming you have permission to be there, the woods are a great place to look — especially high-traffic areas like hiking trails and campsites. But the rocky and uneven terrain can be challenging. Proper gear like hiking boots and poles may be necessary.
Detecting around branches, stones, or roots will take more effort to dig up what you find, so make sure you bring along high-quality tools.
Are you allowed to metal detect on beaches?
Most public beaches allow metal detecting. They may simply require you to refill any holes you dig. Some beaches may require a permit. Before you go, contact the recreation and parks office, beach authority, or tourism department of the area to ask about local rules and regulations.
Do I need a license for a metal detector?
You don’t need a license to buy or use a metal detector in the United States. If you are traveling overseas, some countries may require a license or may not allow metal detecting at all.
Some specific locations, especially state parks and federal lands, do require a permit or may not allow metal detecting at all. Permit requirements vary by individual location, city, county, or state.
For example, Pennsylvania state parks allow metal detecting without a permit, but you must get permission from the on-site park manager and follow detecting rules (including following their list of approved digging tools). In Ohio state parks, you can only detect metal in certain areas, like sand-covered beaches. But each park has its own requirements — Ohio’s Geneva State Park requires a permit.
The good news is, if you need a permit, you’ll probably just need to fill out a form and pay a fee. For example, the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation offers an online form to get a permit.
Here are some helpful resources to find local rules on metal detecting:
Best metal detector for beginners and FAQs about metal detectors
According to New York Magazine, the best metal detector for beginners is the Minelab Vanquish 440. Recommended by long-time detectorist George Streeter, the detector is lightweight, collapsible, waterproof, and offers technology that gives you accurate readings so you will know which metal you found before you dig:
What are the different types of metal detectors?
There are two main types of metal detectors:
Very low frequency (VLF)
Pulse induction (PI)
However, there are also specialty detectors that serve a specific purpose — like detecting gold or searching underwater. There are also multi-frequency or 3D detectors, which can cost thousands of dollars but detect metals deeper in the ground.
What is the most reliable metal detector?
Garrett Ace detectors frequently headline “best-of” and “top-rated” metal detector review lists. The Garrett Ace 250 is thought to be one of the most reliable metal detectors you can buy when it comes to finding gold:
How much does a really good metal detector cost?
A really good metal detector will cost you at least $250. Of course, pricing and features will vary by brand, and there are options with decent reviews for less than $150, like the Bounty Hunter TK4:
What is the most powerful metal detector?
The Fisher Gold Bug 2 metal detector is considered one of the most powerful metal detectors on the market. It debuted in 1995 and is still a top contender today. It operates at a frequency of 71 kHZ, which makes it powerful and sensitive enough to find gold of all sizes — even tiny bits and flakes:
What’s the best metal detector for the money?
For the money, the Garrett Ace 300 is a solid metal detector. And, since it’s easy to operate, it’s a good beginner metal detector:
How to use a metal detector and 6 tips for beginners
Metal detectors are fairly simple to operate. Here are 6 tips to help you get started with metal detecting for beginners:
Buy a metal detector with good reviews that you can afford.
Make sure your detector can detect items you want, including gold.
Always read the user manual for your metal detector first. It’s important to learn the different parts and features of your metal detector and how they work.
Look up videos on YouTube for how to use your specific metal detector.
Join a local metal detecting club. Ask about group or guided outings.
Move slowly when you are detecting metal, and keep the coil close to the ground.
How do you use a metal detector successfully?
Use a slow, back and forth sweeping motion to cover your search area. Don’t touch the ground with the coil, but hover just above it for best results. Your metal detector will make sounds to alert you when it has located metals.
Over time, you’ll learn what different sounds mean. For example, gold and silver tend to make higher-pitched sounds than lower value metals like iron.
Also, learn how to read the display on your metal detector. Many models will show you a number that corresponds to a type of metal, as well as how far down you’ll need to dig.
Is it better to metal detect when the ground is wet?
A metal detector often performs best when the ground is wet, like after a soaking rain. The dampness of the soil seems to improve the communication between the buried metal and the metal detector.
What will throw off a metal detector?
Several things can throw off a metal detector reading, including:
Interference from cell phones or radios
Bumping the coil into the ground
Wearing steel-toed boots or shoes with metal accents
A sensitivity setting that is too high
Searching in highly mineralized soil
If you are searching for gold or other metals in areas with mineralized soil, it can be difficult for the metal detector to pinpoint what you’re looking for. Mineralized soils are hard to identify, but you can use a ground balance setting (if available) on your metal detector.
When you ground balance your detector, it will more accurately pick up buried metals and ignore the surrounding mineralized particles that can throw off your reading.
How do you use a metal detector to find gold?
First, make sure your detector is designed to find gold. As you slowly move across an area, pay attention to your metal detector’s readings and sounds. High-pitched sounds often indicate the presence of gold in the ground. Your detector’s digital display may also show you that the device detects gold.
If you find gold or any other fine metals while you’re metal detecting, we recommend selling them to CashforGoldUSA. Why?
A+ BBB rating
Highest price guarantee
No minimum value
100% free trackable shipping from FedEx or USPS
Free insurance from Jewelers’ Mutual up to $150,000 per shipment
Insured by Lloyds of London in CashforGold facility
“How to Make Money Metal Detecting” June 30, 2023. MetalDetector.com. https://www.metaldetector.com/blogs/new_blog/how-to-make-money-metal-detecting
Selling scrap metal is a fast way to make some extra money. It’s easy to get started, and if you have small items to sell, you can handle everything by mail with prepaid postage.
You likely have scrap metal sitting around your house — your broken aluminum washing machine could net you $20 in scrap metal. Those 14k gold chains you no longer wear could earn you hundreds.
Scrap metal is a broad term that refers to any type of metal that is no longer in use. Recycling plants melt the metal and reshape it into new products, which keeps scrap metal out of landfills.
These are some examples of scrap metal:
Old cars and other vehicles
Old appliances such as refrigerators, washers, and dryers
Jewelry, coins, and objects made from precious metals including gold
Silver tea sets and dinnerware
Unwanted or broken machinery
Dental work or fillings with precious metals like silver or gold
Old electronics, laptops, mother boards, cellphones, and hard drives that contain precious metal scraps
While recycling scrap metal is good for the environment, it’s also important to be aware of the potential hazards associated with handling it.
Scrap metal can sometimes be sharp or jagged, and it can also conduct electricity. That’s why it’s important to use caution when collecting and transporting scrap metal.
Scrap metal prices:
The scrap metal market fluctuates, sometimes daily. To get the most up-to-date scrap metal prices, you can subscribe to a free app like iScrap.
Scrap yards with websites may also post daily prices. According to iScrap, prices may differ by region.
Who buys the most scrap metal?
These are some of the top scrap metal buyers:
CJ Environmental
If you want to earn cash for your metal scrap, CJ Environmental is a BBB-accredited business with an A+ rating and lots of positive customer reviews. It serves the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico.
This national metal refining business will pay you top-dollar for your unwanted scrap. They recycle all kinds of metal scrap through multiple subsidiaries:
CashforElectronicScrapUSA.com buys old electronics and processes them to remove scraps of gold, silver, palladium, and other precious metals from your old cellphone, computer, circuit board, or other electronic parts.
This business primarily serves businesses and schools, but also individuals.
Best price for your electronic scrap with no hidden fees
Prompt payment by check or PayPal
Once you send in your items, you can’t get them back. All sales are final.
Peddle.com
Peddle buys cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs in any condition. Even if you have a junk car that doesn’t run, Peddle will give you a cash offer fast. Depending on your vehicle’s condition, Peddle may resell or scrap it for metal or parts.
Peddle is an accredited Better Business Bureau business with an A+ rating that serves the United States.
With Peddle.com, you’ll get:
A free, no-obligation quote for your vehicle
Free pickup from a Peddle towing partner at your convenience
Payment by check at the time of pickup
Once you receive an offer, you have seven days to accept it.
Where to find scrap metal
Go through your home and look for any broken or unwanted items that you can scrap for metal. If you want a higher quantity of items, you can reach out to family and friends and offer to pick their metal scrap.
To find more scrap metal:
Place an ad on Craigslist.org in search of scrap
Join Freecycle.org and look for or request unwanted metal scrap
Make a post on social media requesting scrap items
Search Facebook Marketplace and Buy Nothing groups
Post scrap request flyers on community message boards
Use the Nextdoor app to inquire about metal scrap in your neighborhood
The steps to scrapping metal are dictated by the place you’ll take your items. Some require that you separate different metals and items, while others allow you to bring in or ship mixed items.
Be sure to check with your local or online scrap buyer for procedures. Be ready to negotiate your price if you have a high volume of metal scrap (100 pounds or more).
Here are some tips for scrapping specific metals:
Steps to scrap aluminum
First, identify that your scrap is aluminum. Aluminum is not magnetic, so if a magnet sticks to it, it may be a different metal (possibly iron). Aluminum will be rust-free, lightweight and is commonly found in:
Soda cans
House siding and gutters
Car rims
Bicycles
Cookware
To scrap aluminum:
Research and find a scrap yard with a good reputation
Clean your aluminum scrap, if possible
Sort your aluminum based on your scrap buyer’s preferences. There are different prices for different types
Transport or mail aluminum scrap to your chosen refiner
If you take your scrap to a scrap yard, you can expect same-day payment. If you are recycling scrap metal by mail, you must wait for the items to ship and undergo an appraisal before receiving compensation by check, bank transfer, or via PayPal.
Steps to scrap copper
Scrap copper comes in many forms: wiring, pipes, cookware, and electric motors are just a few items you can sell for money.
To scrap copper:
Research and find a reputable scrap dealer
Clean your copper, if possible
Sort your copper according to your scrap yard’s specifications
Transport or mail in your copper scrap to your chosen refinery
Remember, sorting is often the most important step. If your scrap yard takes mixed scrap, they might pay you a lower price if your higher-dollar copper items are mixed with lower-priced ones.
Check out this video on how to grade and sort copper scrap:
Steps to scrap gold
Unless you are selling bulky gold items, we recommend selling to a top online gold buyer like CashforGoldUSA.com, which allows you to ship your gold items for free.
To scrap gold:
Find a reputable gold buyer
Sort your items if necessary (CashforGoldUSA.com doesn’t require sorting)
Transport or mail your gold scrap and get paid
Gold scrap demands higher prices than other scrap metals. Do your research to make sure you are getting a fair payout.
Steps to scrap silver
If you want to sell silver for cash, we recommend CashforSilverUSA.com, sister site of CashforGoldUSA.com. CashforSilverUSA offers a free, insured mailer to send in your items.
Take or mail your silver scrap to your chosen silver scrap buyer
Note: Most places do not take silver-plated items.
Here’s a video on how to scrap silver:
FAQs about scrapping metal for cash
Is scrapping metal profitable?
If you have scrap metal items you no longer need or use, you can make money selling them to a reputable scrap metal buyer. How much you make depends on the volume and quality of the metals you scrap.
Scrapping metal can become a nice side hustle if you know how to consistently find it and where to get the most money for your metal scrap.
What is the rarest metal on earth?
Rhodium is the rarest metal on earth and therefore the most expensive. It has a silvery white appearance and is often found in catalytic converters, mirrors, and searchlights.
What is the most expensive metal?
Rhodium is the most expensive metal. While its price fluctuates, at the time of this post, it was worth about $14,500 per ounce.
What is the most valuable metal?
Rhodium, commonly used as a plating on white gold, is the most valuable metal at this time.
What is the best metal to scrap for money?
Copper is one of the best metals to scrap for money because it’s a common metal that is in high demand at metal scrap yards. Plus, you likely have it sitting around your house.
You can find copper in pipes and wiring, so if you upgrade your plumbing, check to see if there are copper pipes you can sell for a profit.
What is scrap metal?
Scrap metal is a broad term that refers to any type of metal that is no longer in use. Recycling plants melt the metal and reshape it into new products, which keeps scrap metal out of landfills.
Is scrapping metal profitable?
If you have scrap metal items you no longer need or use, you can make money selling them to a reputable scrap metal buyer. How much you make depends on the volume and quality of the metals you scrap.
What is the rarest metal on earth?
Rhodium is the rarest metal on earth and therefore the most expensive. It has a silvery white appearance and is often found in catalytic converters, mirrors, and searchlights.
What is the best metal to scrap for money?
Copper is one of the best metals to scrap for money because it’s a common metal that is in high demand at metal scrap yards.
