Which Household Fixtures Contain the Most Gold And Silver?
Gold and silver can be found in many homes. The question is, where?
Just to be sure you’re not missing any stocks of precious metal scrap that could be right under your nose, here’s a checklist for you to keep handy.
Antiques and decorative Items - Older or antique items in the household, such as antique silverware, decorative items, or collectibles, might have significant amounts of silver.
Cutlery and flatware - Some high-quality cutlery and flatware sets may be made of silver or have silver-plated parts.
Dental scrap – It might sound strange, but many people still have bridges, crowns, and other kinds of dental scrap lying around in a dresser drawer. They could be worth more than you think!
Electronics - Many electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and computers, contain small amounts of gold and silver in their circuit boards and connectors.
Jewelry - Gold and silver are commonly used in various types of jewelry like rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.
Silver coins and bullion - An old coin collection can yield you a lot of money. Even single coins or bullion bars can be worth more than you expect.
Trophies and collectibles - The older they are, the more likely it is that they are made of silver, sometimes with gold plating.
It's important to note that the amount of gold and silver in most household fixtures is relatively small compared to specialized items like gold bars or silver bullion. Additionally, the value of these precious metals can fluctuate, so it's a good idea to check the current market prices if you're considering their value. Also, some items, like dental work or electronics, may require proper recycling or disposal methods to extract the precious metals safely. Call Specialty Metals Smelters and Refiners at 800-426-2344 to learn more.
And What About Switch Plates, Light Fixtures, and Other Home Electronic Items?
Do switch plates and light fixtures contain gold?
Not many do. These fixtures are typically made from materials like plastic, metal alloys (e.g., steel, aluminum, brass), and other non-precious metals. Gold is a precious metal and is not commonly used in the manufacturing of everyday household fixtures due to its high cost.
Switch plates are usually made from materials like plastic, stainless steel, or other metals like aluminum or brass. Light fixtures, such as lamps and ceiling lights, are often made from materials like aluminum, steel, or various metal alloys. These materials are chosen for their durability, cost-effectiveness, and ease of manufacturing.
While gold is not typically found in standard switch plates and light fixtures, some high-end or decorative fixtures might have gold accents or gold plating, but these are exceptions and not the norm for everyday household fixtures. If you suspect that a particular fixture contains gold, you could consult the manufacturer's specifications or seek the advice of a professional to determine its composition.
We will be happy to help you determine the value of these items. Call our precious metal refinery at 800-426-2344 to learn more.