The best pawn shops in NYC

The Diamond District, despite being relatively tiny, is chockablock with jewelry buyers and sellers, which can make unloading unwanted items a confusing and risky endeavor. But whether you’re looking to sell a watch, ring or necklace, appraiser Ed at this shop will give you a fair price, and with your newly pocketed cash, check out the family-owned shop’s selection of diamond tennis bracelets, gold necklaces and Rolexes (perfect for when you’re feeling fancy).

Any New Yorker will recognize EZ Pawn’s Roy Lichtenstein–inspired subway ads, and the fact that it’s a massive chain is, well, kind of creepy. But we came around when we learned that the store’s West Village location stocks überhip LES restaurant Beauty & Essex’s speakeasy-style (but faux) pawn shop entryway. The eatery’s storefront is elegantly tricked out to look like an operational pawn shop—complete with a cashier—but it’s all a ruse. So if you’re coveting one of the shiny Stratocasters, vintage cigar humidors or sets of Russian nesting dolls, head straight to source, conveniently located on 14th Street.

Looking for a gold chain to wear ironically (or not–no judgment)? Gem’s got it. Stepping up to something more serious and in need of an engagement ring? Somebody else’s failed relationship could be your ticket to an affordable engagement, as Gem’s wide selection of competitively priced rings will prove. Plus, the one-stop shop offers on-site jewelry repair and watch battery replacement, too.

Yet another Diamond District buyer—it’s good to have options, right?—Global keeps its entire purchase procedure aboveboard, dispelling any qualms about the pawning process. Specializing in gold and silver jewelry, watches, coins, engagement rings and estate jewelry, Global’s crackerjack duo of appraisers, Maurice and Elad, will walk you through the sales process forthrightly. Best of all, the store’s website has an entire photo gallery of recent pieces they’ve purchased, including prices. Check it out before you head over to get a sense of what your items are worth.

Don’t be fooled by this one-of-a-kind store’s name: There’s so much more inside the quirky storefront than just jewelry. (Although if you are in the market for stylish silver, gold and gem pieces, you’ll be thrilled by the extensive selection.) Marked by a red flame–adorned motorcycle parked out front, the aesthetic carries over to the store’s huge selection of electric and acoustic guitars and other instruments, along with vintage German beer steins and old-school radios. Owner Avi is friendly and fair, making a trip to Gold Buyers more than worth the car ride along Jackie Robinson Parkway.

Another Diamond District gem (get it?), Manhattan Buyers is a time-tested resale spot offering top dollar on gold coins, fine jewelry and timepieces. Located in a private Fifth Avenue suite, the shop offers privacy and unrivaled personal attention from Arthur Abrams, the store’s main appraiser. In the biz for 15 years, Abrams has a deep knowledge of precious metals and jewels, so if you’re looking to cash in on some no-longer-need accessories, this is the place.

Strapped for cash? This luxe Diamond District store pegs itself as an “upscale collateral lender,” and indeed owner Jordan Tabach-Bank’s private suite is tastefully decorated, its cream walls adorned with clips from Crain’s and other econ rags. Your consultation will include refreshments followed by an in-depth assessment of the value of the jewelry, fine art or memorabilia you’d like to (temporarily) give up in exchange for a high-value cash loan—the collateral here is your object itself.