Gold Bars: Compare Dealer Quotes, Records and Resale Terms
Compare gold bars by their stated weight and fineness, the records supplied with the exact bar, and the complete written purchase or resale quote. A dealer ranking, stamped logo or quoted spot price does not establish authenticity or the amount you will receive.
Compare the transaction, not a star rating
A useful comparison starts with the same bar and the same direction of trade. A dealer's retail selling price is different from its offer to buy your bar. Record the weight, refiner, stated fineness, packaging and serial number where present, then ask for an itemized quote. Compare quotes close together in time because the underlying gold market can change.
The CFTC's questions for precious-metal buyers explain why the spread between purchase and resale prices matters. Ask about premiums, commissions, shipping, storage and any other charges that apply to your transaction. An attractive headline price is not a complete quote.
Keep copies of the written terms. A quote should make clear whether the amount is final, subject to examination, or dependent on a particular payment method. When comparing a local visit with an online transaction, include delivery arrangements, the examination process, return terms and who is responsible for the item at each stage.
What the bar and its records can tell you
Bring the bar with its original packaging, assay card, receipt and any prior transaction records that you already have. Match identifying details across those records instead of assuming that a card belongs to the nearby bar. Do not open sealed packaging or alter a bar just to prepare it for an initial conversation.
Records help establish what is being offered, but a photograph, logo or stated purity is not conclusive authentication. Ask the evaluator which checks are appropriate and whether any proposed test would alter the item. The LBMA's physical-market guidelines describe limitations of different testing techniques; no single casual home check should be treated as a definitive result.
Understand the limits of a Good Delivery claim
LBMA Good Delivery is a defined wholesale-market standard. The LBMA explains that its lists cover specified large wholesale bars, and that other refined products made by an accredited refiner are outside that listing's scope. A small retail bar is not automatically a London Good Delivery bar because its maker appears on a list.
Likewise, a dealer's description of its own service should be supported by evidence relevant to that claim. The World Gold Council's Gold Dealer Assurance Standard provides context for retail-dealer assurance. A link to that standard is not evidence that a particular shop holds certification.
Keep bullion and collectible value separate
Bars and coins can require different evaluation questions. For coins, record the issue, date, denomination, condition and existing holder information; a possible collectible component should not be assumed from metal content alone. For a mixed collection, ask the evaluator to explain which pieces are being considered for bullion value and which may need closer identification.
Our Downtown Los Angeles gold-coin guide explains how to prepare a collection. If jewelry is included, keep it separate from bars and coins so the discussion of gold weight and purity stays clear.
Prepare a Downtown Los Angeles evaluation
Contact Cash 4 Gold & Diamonds before transporting a valuable collection. Describe the items, approximate quantities and available records, and confirm the arrangements for a visit. The business is at 617 S. Hill Street, Los Angeles, CA 90014. Gold jewelry, scrap gold, heavy Cuban chains, and gold and silver coins are part of the gold-buying service; discuss your specific bars before making a trip.
Cash, bank wire and business check are available for agreed purchases. Confirm the method and timing for your particular transaction before accepting an offer. This page does not quote a current gold price, guarantee a payout or identify products currently held for sale.
Questions about comparing gold bars
Does a smaller gold bar always cost less per gram?
Compare the full quoted cost per unit of fine gold for the products under consideration. A smaller total purchase amount does not by itself establish a lower premium or better resale outcome.
Is an assay card enough to establish authenticity?
No. Keep it with the corresponding item and ask how the bar, identifying details and records will be checked together. The appropriate examination depends on the item and circumstances.
Which dealer should I choose?
Compare documented terms, relevant evaluation experience and the process for your exact transaction. This guide does not assign unverified ratings to Cash 4 Gold & Diamonds or competing businesses.