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Florida is a popular destination for beaches, theme parks, rocket launches and more. However, one of the more underrated destinations in this state is Fort Walton Beach. Let’s take a look at how to get there, the best things to do in Fort Walton Beach and where to stay once you arrive.

The best things to do in Fort Walton Beach

Fort Walton Beach offers many things to do for every type of traveler. Whether you’re visiting as a family, with friends or on a couple’s getaway, you’ll find plenty of attractions, cultural experiences and outdoor adventures to fit your budget.

1. Paddleboard along the coast

Fort Walton Beach offers calm, clear waters in its bays, which is perfect for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). This activity is one the best things to do in Fort Walton Beach whether you’re an expert or a beginner.

Some of the locals’ favorite spots include Norriego Point, Okaloosa Island Beach and Gulf Islands National Seashore. If you don’t have your own equipment, local businesses rent boards to visitors wanting to enjoy the sun and water.

2. Visit the Air Force Armament Museum

For the AV geek or military buff in your family, the Air Force Armament Museum is a must. This military museum features over 29 different aircraft ranging in age from the War II-era to present day. Inside, you’ll also find exhibits featuring hundreds of pieces of armament, including bombs and missiles.

It’s a good option for budget-conscious travelers because admission is free. It’s open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., including most federal holidays.

3. Learn local history at Fort Walton Beach Heritage Park and Cultural Center

The Fort Walton Beach Heritage Park and Cultural Center is the place to be for visitors wanting to learn about local history. This museum showcases the area’s history from 12,000 B.C. through the 1950s.

The park includes numerous attractions, such as Indian Temple Mound Museum, Camp Walton Schoolhouse Museum, Garnier Post Office Museum, Fort Walton Temple Mound and the Civil War Exhibit Building.

Purchase your admission inside the Indian Temple Mound Museum for $5 per person. One ticket includes admission to all of the attractions listed above. The museums open at 10 a.m. and close by 3 p.m. (or earlier). It is closed on Sundays, Mondays and all major holidays.

4. Step into the Norriego Point tide pools

The Norriego Point tide pools offer a shallow water experience for visitors of all ages. The tide pools are cordoned off from open waters to provide a safe space for small children and inexperienced swimmers.

In the tide pools, you’ll discover numerous types of fish, hermit crabs and more. Learn about the local sea life up close. These also offer a unique vantage point to watch the boats coming into the harbor.

There is no cost to visit the Norriego Point tide pools. However, parking is limited, so consider parking at nearby O’steen Beach or on the local streets.

5. Feed an alligator at Gator Beach

Another activity at Fort Walton Beach is seeing the alligators at Gator Beach. There is no admission fee, and its considered the largest alligator park on the Emerald Coast.

This attraction features hundreds of alligators; for a small fee, visitors can feed the gators. If you’re brave enough, you can even take a picture while holding a live alligator. There are also multiple shows and tours throughout the day to learn about this local species.

6. Experiment at the Emerald Coast Science Center

The Emerald Coast Science Center in Fort Walton Beach is one of many attractions for families with young children.

This interactive, hands-on museum features numerous exhibits for guests, including dinosaur fossils, robotics, chemistry demonstrations and a handful of outdoor exhibits. Plus, there are additional areas with live birds, mammals and reptiles to round out your science adventure.

The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is $12 per person, and children two and under are free.

7. Camp at Henderson Beach State Park

While many travelers prefer a nice hotel, others are looking for a more rustic experience. Camping at Henderson Beach State Park allows visitors to immerse themselves in the outdoors and enjoy 30-foot sand dunes and warm Gulf Coast waters.

The state park offers 60 campsites, fishing opportunities and a nature trail. It’s adjacent to the beach, and campers can access the water using the boardwalk.

Visitors can make reservations up to 10 months in advance (11 months for Florida residents). Campsite prices range from $16 to $42 per night and cabins are $30 to $160 a night. Florida State Parks also charges a nonrefundable fee of $6.70 per reservation. You can book your stay online or over the phone at 800-326-3521.

8. Become a mermaid at Reefs & Wrecks Remembered

If you or your child has ever dreamed of becoming a mermaid, this dream can become reality at Reefs and Wrecks. This PADI-certified company offers three different types of mermaid experiences for different levels of swimmers.

The entry level course is the Discover Mermaid experience in a shallow pool. For experienced divers, the Advanced Mermaid course includes two sessions in open water where you can test out your mermaid skills. Prices start at $145 and go up to $450, depending on the course selected.

9. Go fishing at The Island Pier

Throw out a line or just enjoy the views from The Island Pier. This pier stretches 1,262 into the Gulf of Mexico, so it offers unparalleled views of the beach and water.

Local marine life includes dolphins, sea turtles, herons and pelicans. Visitors can purchase a daily fishing license, buy lures and tackle or rent equipment from shops on the pier.

If you’re unable to catch anything, don’t worry about going hungry. The pier’s shop serves sandwiches, ice cream, snacks and drinks.

10. Stroll the Okaloosa Island Boardwalk

Along the Okaloosa Island Boardwalk, you’ll find a variety of dining options, gift shops and activities. There are numerous restaurants to choose from based on your budget and appetite.

Plus, visitors can enjoy the children’s playground, splash pad and sand volleyball courts. During the summer, stick around after dark for the fireworks show on Wednesday evenings.

11. Shop local at the Downtown Fort Walton Beach Farmers Market

Support local farmers, artisans and crafters by shopping at the Downtown Fort Walton Beach Farmers Market. The market is open year-round on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month. It operates from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., so arrive early for the best selection.

The Okaloosa Farmers Market is another option where you can buy local goods. It operates on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

12. Go snorkeling at Stingray Bay

The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is a unique experience for travelers. The park offers numerous animal encounters, including dolphins, harbor seals, penguins and stingrays.

Ticket prices are $30 or less, depending on your age. Florida residents receive a discount.

One of the experiences available is to snorkel in Stingray Bay. For an additional $59, you’ll get 30 minutes to snorkel and interact with cownose rays, small sharks, groupers and numerous fish species.

13. Experience the fun at Crab Island

One of the top things to do in Fort Walton Beach is Crab Island, which takes advantage of the shallow waters and raised sandbars along the Gulf Coast.

In most places, the water is only one to four feet deep, so it’s safe even if you don’t know how to swim. Visitors will find obstacle courses, floating bars and more for fun in the sun.

Only accessible by boat, many people rent one or bring their own to visit Crab Island. Some arrive on pontoon boats so they have a place to rest and relax during the day. There are also tour and water taxi options.

While there is food available from floating food vendors and restaurants, you cannot purchase alcohol on Crab Island. You’ll have to bring your own if you want to enjoy an adult beverage.

Where is Fort Walton Beach, Florida?

Fort Walton Beach is located on the Florida panhandle, across the Choctawhatchee Bay from Destin. The city is about two hours east of Mobile, Alabama, and about an hour west of Panama City Beach, Florida.

How to get to Fort Walton Beach, Florida

Fort Walton Beach is a popular road trip destination for travelers in the South. However, the local Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport is also an option for those who wish to fly. The airport is serviced by Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines and Sun Country Airlines.

There are numerous nonstop flights from airports across the country, including Boston, Dallas-Fort Worth, Minneapolis, Las Vegas and Washington-National.

Where to stay in Fort Walton Beach

Travelers have a variety of lodging options when booking their vacation to Fort Walton Beach. Here are a few from several major hotel chains, along with how many points are needed to book a room there in 2024.

  • Tru by Hilton Fort Walton Beach: Redemptions from 22,000 to 70,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

  • Holiday Inn Express Fort Walton Beach Central: Redemptions from 14,000 to 43,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

  • Fairfield Inn & Suites Fort Walton Beach-West Destin: Redemptions from 32,000 to 48,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

You can earn a large sum of points quickly by getting the sign-up bonus for new hotel and travel credit cards. Generally speaking, to earn a bonus, you need to spend a certain amount within a specific time frame after signing up for the card.

Top hotel credit cards

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card

on Chase’s website

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

on Chase’s website

Annual fee

Sign-up bonus

Limited time offer! Earn 5 Free Night Awards (each night valued up to 50,000 points) after spending $5,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card.

Earn 155,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Terms Apply.

Earn 165,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Still not sure?

Once you reach that threshold, you’ll earn a bulk sum of points or miles that can be used toward award redemptions.

Other accommodations in Fort Walton Beach can be booked through Expedia, Hotels.com and Vrbo using OneKey Rewards.

Things to do in Fort Walton Beach recapped

Beach vacationers should consider visiting Fort Walton Beach in the Florida panhandle. There are many fun things to do for adults and kids alike. Learn about the city’s history, make new friends with local wildlife, go fishing and enjoy a variety of water activities.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024, including those best for:

Source: nerdwallet.com

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New York-based Rithm Capital has changed the compensation package of its top executive, Michael Nierenberg, by reducing his annual base salary, bonus and time-based equity award. But the company also increased the performance-based share of the total equity award.

As a result, Nierenberg’s target annual compensation rose from $15 million to $17 million, according to a March 15 filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). 

A spokesperson for Rithm Capital declined to provide more details on the decision.

Nierenberg, the chairman, CEO and president of Rithm Capital, will have his base salary reduced from $1.25 million to $1 million, effective April 1, per the amendment to the compensation agreement signed in June 2022.

The parties agreed that Nierenberg’s annual target cash bonus will be reduced from $5 million to $4 million. And the time-based yearly equity award target will be cut from $4.375 million to $3 million. 

Meanwhile, Nierenberg’s annual performance-based equity award will increase from $4.375 million to $9 million, “such that 75% of the target value of Executive’s annual equity award grants will now be in the form of performance-based units,” the filing states. 

Nierenberg joined the company in 2013 and has recently repositioned it from a real estate investment trust (REIT) into a leading global asset manager. 

He led the company during the tumultuous acquisition of Sculptor Capital Management in 2023, bringing in $34 billion in assets under management. 

In the same year, Rithm also struck a deal to acquire Computershare Mortgage Services, including Specialized Loan Servicing (SLS), adding $136 billion in unpaid principal balance (UPB) of mortgage servicing rights (MSRs)

In the mortgage space, Rithm subsidiary Newrez restructured its distributed retail mortgage business, resulting in cuts to regional and divisional managers. It also included reduced compensation for loan officers, sources told HousingWire in February.

Nierenberg has been the president and CEO of Rithm since November 2013 and chairman since May 2016. Prior to joining Rithm, he held executive positions at Bank of America Merrill Lynch, J.P. Morgan, Bear Stearns, and Lehman Brothers. 

In 2023, Rithm announced a $532.7 million GAAP net income, lower than its figure of $864.8 million in the prior year.

Source: housingwire.com

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The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is a premium credit card that offers cardholders a host of benefits, such as a $300 annual travel credit, 10,000 anniversary bonus miles, 10x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and Priority Pass membership.

Below we dive into the specifics of the Priority Pass membership benefit so you can take full advantage of it when traveling with your Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card.

Overview of the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card Priority Pass benefit

For frequent flyers, the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card Priority Pass membership is one of the card’s most useful benefits as it gives cardholders access to the global Priority Pass airport lounge network.

Authorized users of the card are also eligible to sign up for a Priority Pass membership, meaning that if you have a Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card and add someone as an authorized user (for instance, a spouse or relative), that individual can also access Priority Pass lounges when traveling.

How to enroll in Priority Pass as a Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card holder

The Primeclass Lounge, a Priority Pass lounge located at Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (Photo courtesy of Josh Garber)

To take advantage of the Priority Pass benefit, you’ll need to enroll by following these steps:

  1. Receive your Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card in the mail, which can take up to two weeks after you’ve been approved for the card.

  3. Enter your Capital One card number, country of residence and address to create your Priority Pass account.

  4. Enter your billing details, which will be used to identify you when you arrive at a Priority Pass lounge.

  5. Review and accept the membership declaration, then click “Join.”

Once you’re enrolled, you can access your account through the Priority Pass website or the mobile app.

🤓Nerdy Tip

We recommend downloading the Priority Pass mobile app, which makes it easy to find Priority Pass lounges while you’re traveling. You can also take advantage of the digital card on the app to enter eligible lounges.

How to enter Priority Pass lounges with your membership

To enter a Priority Pass lounge using your membership, you’ll first need to locate a lounge to visit.

Priority Pass has plenty of lounges — over 1,500 internationally. As of this time, the lounges are available in 44 U.S. cities.

Some airports may have several Priority Pass lounges, and some have none at all.

Once you find a Priority Pass lounge to visit, you’ll need the following to get in:

  • A same-day boarding pass.

  • An ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.

  • One of the following: 

    • YourCapital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card.

    • Your physical Priority Pass membership card.

    • Your digital Priority Pass membership card.

Keep in mind that Priority Pass lounges have capacity limits and can fill up, so we recommend having a back-up lounge or plan in mind if the Priority Pass lounge you want to visit is full.

Are there limits on guests or visits to Priority Pass lounges with the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card?

One of our favorite features of the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card Priority Pass benefit is that there is no limit to the number of lounges you can visit in a year.

Additionally, all guests traveling with you also receive complimentary access to the lounge.

Is it worth getting a Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card for the Priority Pass benefit?

The annual fee on the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is $395, while a Priority Pass membership that offers unlimited visits costs $469 per year, making the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card Priority Pass membership a great value.

But if you’re able to take advantage of the other benefits offered by the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, like the card’s $300 annual travel credit, 10x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and the 10,000 miles anniversary bonus, then it makes sense to sign up for Priority Pass and the card’s other benefits.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card Priority Pass, recapped

Cardholders need to enroll in Priority Pass to gain access, but the process is straightforward. Once enrolled, you’ll be able to access a global network of Priority Pass lounges with no limit on the number of visits you can make or guests that you can bring each year.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024, including those best for:

Source: nerdwallet.com

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Are you wondering where to sell jewelry that you don’t need? Here are the best places to sell jewelry online and near you to make extra money. If you want to sell your stuff and make money, you can sell engagement rings, necklaces, rings, bracelets, and whatever else you have. Selling jewelry can help you…

Are you wondering where to sell jewelry that you don’t need? Here are the best places to sell jewelry online and near you to make extra money.

If you want to sell your stuff and make money, you can sell engagement rings, necklaces, rings, bracelets, and whatever else you have.

Selling jewelry can help you make money when you have items that you don’t need anymore. There are different ways to do it, both online and in your local area.

You can use websites like eBay or Facebook Marketplace for a broad audience. If you have expensive jewelry, sites like Worthy or TheRealReal might be a good fit. You can also sell directly to local places like jewelry stores, pawn shops, or at craft fairs, if you need cash right away. They all have their advantages and disadvantages, and I will be going over each below.

Best Places To Sell Jewelry Online and In Person

Below are the best places to sell jewelry online through selling apps and online marketplaces, as well as in person near you.

1. Worthy

I think that one of the best places to sell jewelry online is Worthy.

Selling jewelry like diamond engagement rings or fancy watches can be a way to make money on jewelry that you do not need anymore.

Worthy uses an auction setup, which means many people will see your jewelry, with a good chance of getting a higher price than at your local pawn shop or other online marketplaces.

You can sell items like the below on Worthy:

  • Earrings
  • Wedding or engagement rings
  • Necklaces, pearls, and more
  • Bracelets
  • Loose diamonds and gemstones
  • Watches

You start by telling Worthy what you’ve got (necklace, ring, etc.). They give you free shipping (insurance included) to send it to them. Once your jewelry is in their hands, they clean it up, have it evaluated, take some quality photos, and even get an appraisal.

You get to set a minimum price you’re okay with – called a reserve price – before your jewelry hits the online auction stage.

The whole process typically takes around 2 weeks from shipping to getting paid.

2. Local jewelry stores

When you decide to sell your jewelry, one way is with local jewelry stores. These shops tend to have personalized service and can give you immediate payment for your jewelry pieces. So, if you want to sell your jewelry in person, then this may be the best option for you.

You’ll want to start by researching local jewelry stores near you with good reputations, such as by looking for reviews online or asking people you know for recommendations.

Prior to visiting, understand the value of your jewelry. Some stores might do appraisals, but getting an independent one is often better for comparison so that you know how much money you should be asking for.

And, don’t hesitate to negotiate the price offered. Store owners expect it, and you might be able to get more money for your jewelry.

Some local stores offer trade-in options too. You might receive a higher value if you choose store credit instead of cash.

Make sure to bring your ID with you, as most jewelry stores will require it to process the transaction.

By choosing to sell your jewelry locally, you can typically make money a lot faster than if you sold your jewelry online, which is a huge benefit.

3. Pawn shops

If you want to know where to sell jewelry near you for cash, then pawn shops are typically the first choice.

Pawn shops are local businesses that give cash right away for items, such as fine jewelry, high-end collectibles, and electronics. Pawn shops operate by providing you with a loan based on the collateral value of your item or by purchasing it from you outright.

At a pawn shop, you’ll find a process that’s usually quick and straightforward. Whether you decide to pawn or sell, the staff will assess your jewelry’s value. This value depends on current market prices, the item’s condition, and more. Gold, silver, platinum, diamonds, and gemstones are typically accepted, regardless of their condition.

Before you visit, clean your jewelry to make sure it looks its best, and gather any certifications or paperwork that verifies its authenticity or value. This preparation can help you get a better offer.

Selling vs. pawning:

  • Selling: You receive cash immediately for your item without any obligation to repay.
  • Pawning: You get a loan based on the value of your jewelry, with the chance to reclaim your item once you repay the loan plus interest.

4. Selling at auctions

If you want to know where to sell your jewelry to get the most amount of money, then an auction may be it because there is usually a wide audience to bid on your pieces.

You will want to find an auction house and contact a jewelry specialist. It’s important to understand that your jewelry will be sold to the highest bidder once the auctioneer concludes the bidding.

Fees vary, so it’s important to ask about buyer’s premiums and seller’s commissions, as these will impact your final take-home amount. Also, carefully read the terms and conditions before you agree to auction your jewelry, as you need to be aware of payment procedures and timing.

5. eBay

If you’re thinking about selling your jewelry, eBay can be a good place to sell it. It’s an online marketplace (I’m sure you’ve heard of it) with lots of people looking for all different kinds of things around the world.

I have personally sold many items on eBay over the years, including jewelry (nothing too expensive, as I’ve never had expensive jewelry, but there is more expensive jewelry listed on eBay as well). It’s an easy way to list your jewelry online and see if people around the world are interested in buying it.

When you want to sell, take clear pictures of your jewelry from all sides and focus on any logos, textures, or stones. You can also show how the jewelry looks on real people or mannequins to help buyers see how it fits.

To price your pieces competitively, research what similar items are selling for. This may include looking at sold listings to understand how other sellers title and describe their items.

eBay charges a final value fee when your jewelry sells, so factor this into your pricing. With the right approach, eBay can be the perfect place to earn money while clearing out your jewelry box.

6. Consignment shops

Consignment shops are another popular place to sell jewelry.

Consignment means the shop will sell your jewelry for you and take a percentage of the sale price as their fee. This fee can range from 10% to 70%, so it’s important to ask about the commission rates before agreeing to sell your items.

When choosing a consignment shop, remember to:

  • Check their reputation and reviews.
  • Understand their commission rates and payment methods.
  • Ask about their process for valuing jewelry.
  • Ask about how they secure and insure your items while in their possession, just in case a customer walks away with it.

What makes consignment shops different from the others is that you will not receive any money until someone actually buys the jewelry. So, if it’s an in-person consignment shop, that could be weeks or even months.

7. Yard sales

When you’re looking to sell your costume or lower-value jewelry, you may want to set up a yard sale.

These local events are perfect for selling items that range from playful dress-up accessories to the everyday pieces you no longer wear.

I recommend putting a mirror near where you have your jewelry for sale at your garage sale so that people can see how they look with your jewelry. This can help on-the-spot decisions and give individuals a “try before you buy” experience.

Now, jewelry at a yard sale typically does not sell for much. You may get just a few dollars for your jewelry pieces. But, if you have a lot of jewelry that is not worth a lot, this is an option to sell it fast and earn at least a little bit of money.

8. Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace can be a convenient online platform if you want to sell your jewelry. With local and nationwide reach, it allows you to list your jewelry easily.

All you have to do is take some pictures of your jewelry from different angles and write a title with a quick description. You will also want to include the type of jewelry, the brand, condition, and mention any certificates or appraisals that it has.

Start by taking clear photos of your jewelry from different angles, and make sure to include close-up shots to highlight details and any craftsmanship.

Because Facebook Marketplace typically means that you will be meeting buyers in person, I highly recommend meeting in well-lit public places for local transactions or using secured payment and shipping methods for long-distance sales.

9. Local craft fairs or markets

If you have a lot of handmade jewelry to sell, then you may want to try setting up a stand at a local craft fair or market. These events give you a chance to present your handmade pieces to a community that appreciates more unique and artisanal items.

To find the right venue, research local fairs and markets that attract buyers interested in jewelry. Look for events that have a history of successful artisan sales. Remember, not all fairs are created equal, so pick ones that match your style and audience.

10. TheRealReal

If you have luxury jewelry you’re ready to part with, you can try selling through TheRealReal.

The RealReal is a high-end consignment online store that sells luxury items, such as designer clothing, shoes, and jewelry. You can earn up to 85% of the selling price for your items.

This marketplace specializes in consignment sales of high-end items. If brands like Chanel, Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Tiffany & Co., and Rolex are in your collection, you’re in luck, as TheRealReal is known for these luxury names.

11. Sotheby’s

If you want to sell your valuable jewelry, Sotheby’s is a respected auction house known for selling fine art, jewels, watches, and wine. They are well-known globally, with offices in cities like Geneva, New York, Los Angeles, and Hong Kong.

Sotheby’s is known for handling the sale of expensive jewelry, and they have made headlines with the auction of the Royal Jewels from the Bourbon Parma Family, which fetched millions of dollars.

They have specialists who are experts who can help you understand the value of your jewelry and guide you through the consignment process. They’re always ready to view pieces in person, and you can schedule an appointment or ask about a visit.

12. Cash for Gold USA

Cash for Gold USA is a company that buys gold jewelry, such as gold necklaces. They also buy silver jewelry and diamond jewelry.

Cash for Gold USA gives out free appraisal kits, and these kits are the first step to figuring out how much your items are worth. It doesn’t matter if your jewelry is in excellent condition or a bit damaged; they are interested in buying a lot of gold and silver jewelry.

The mail-in system they have makes sure that you can send your gold without worry that it will be lost. They prioritize making it an easy and secure process for you. Here is what you need to do:

  1. Request an appraisal kit or download the shipping form from their website.
  2. Mail your gold or silver jewelry safely.
  3. Wait for an offer.
  4. Get paid.

If you decide to accept their offer, you will receive payment for your jewelry. Keep in mind that the current market price and the condition of your jewelry will affect the offer you get.

It’s important to note that Cash for Gold USA also buys other forms of gold, not just jewelry. They accept coins, watches, and even scrap gold. They claim to offer competitive prices and a 10% bonus on your quote when you obtain a certified appraisal from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). This can potentially give you more cash compared to other competitors.

Tips for Selling Your Jewelry

Before you sell your jewelry, it’s important to know its value, make it look its best, and showcase it well with good photos. Skipping these steps might put you at a disadvantage when selling.

How to find out how much your jewelry is worth

Knowing how much your jewelry is worth is important because it affects where and how you sell it.

If your jewelry is valuable, you might get better offers at places like Sotheby’s auction house or specialized services for fine jewelry.

On the other hand, if your jewelry has a lower market value, then local options or online marketplaces could be faster and easier for selling.

To find out how much your jewelry is worth, try getting an appraisal from a certified professional. They look at things like quality, gold content, and whether there are diamonds or other precious metals to figure out the value.

You can find a good appraiser through groups like the American Gem Society.

Preparing jewelry for sale

After you find out the value, make sure your jewelry is ready to sell.

Cleaning is important; you could even think about professional services to make it shine, especially for valuable items like diamond pieces. Check if any repairs are needed, and keep records of the jewelry’s quality and materials.

These details will help convince potential buyers of its value.

Photographing your jewelry for listings

Take photos that show off the sparkle and details of your jewelry, making them really appealing to buyers.

Use a high-quality camera, and take pictures in natural light when you can get the most accurate representation of your jewelry.

If you’re selling online, make sure your pictures are sharp, clear, and show the true condition and quality of the piece.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to common questions about where to sell jewelry.

What is the best way to sell jewelry?

The best way to sell jewelry depends on what you have. If you have an engagement ring to sell, then I recommend trying to sell it on Worthy. If you need cash right away (such as the same day), then finding a local jewelry shop or a pawn shop near you may be good options. If you have a lot of cheap jewelry, such as costume jewelry, then Craigslist or Facebook may be good options.

Where can I get the most money for selling jewelry?

To get the most amount of money for your jewelry, think about selling your jewelry directly to consumers on online platforms. This skips the middleman and lets you set competitive prices.

How can I sell my jewelry without getting ripped off?

To avoid being ripped off, research the current market for similar jewelry, set a fair price, and always use secure payment methods and platforms with protections for sellers. If you’re selling high-value items, getting an appraisal from a certified gemologist or a trusted jeweler can also provide proof of your jewelry’s value.

Is it better to sell jewelry to a pawn shop or jewelry store?

Selling to a jewelry store might get you a better amount of money if the store is interested in the resale value of your pieces. However, pawn shops usually pay you faster. If you need quick cash and are willing to accept a potentially lower price, pawn shops can be an option.

Do local jewelers buy jewelry?

Many local jewelers buy jewelry, especially if it’s a piece they can resell or use for parts. It’s always a good idea to have a few consultations with different jewelers in your area to compare offers.

What is the best place to sell jewelry near me?

The best place to sell your jewelry near you depends on the type of jewelry you have. If it’s modern or in high demand, local jewelers or consignment shops might give you good prices. But if it’s unique or antique, you might get better results from specialized markets or online platforms that target specific audiences.

Best Places Where To Sell Jewelry – Summary

I hope you enjoyed this article on where to sell jewelry online and in person.

As you can see, there are many places to sell your jewelry. Whether you have sterling silver, an engagement ring, a diamond necklace, sapphires, rubies, or even historical or estate jewelry for sale, there are many jewelry buyers who may be interested in the jewelry pieces that you no longer want.

Have you sold jewelry before? Where is your favorite place to sell jewelry?

Recommended reading:

Source: makingsenseofcents.com

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Having multiple credit cards brings certain benefits. On average, Americans use two to three credit cards at a time, often to take advantage of various perks and rewards programs. Another reason to own multiple credit cards is they can boost your credit score when managed sensibly.

That said, juggling credit lines can get out of hand, and it’s easy to fall behind with payments and face hefty interest charges. Here’s a guide to managing multiple credit cards: when to use certain cards, how to know if you have too many, and more.

Steps for Managing Multiple Credit Cards

Here’s how to manage your credit cards wisely and the steps to take to avoid unnecessary interest charges and fees.

Keep Track of Terms

Know what you are signing up for when you apply for a credit card. While a card may offer perks like sign-up bonuses, free vacations, and 0% interest rates initially, it may also charge high fees and exorbitant interest rates later on. Every credit card has different terms and conditions that are often buried in the small print.

Before applying for a new credit card, check the interest rate, or APR. Also look for penalty APRs, purchase APRs, and cash advance APRs. A penalty APR is charged if you don’t comply with the card’s terms and conditions. A purchase APR is the interest rate charged for purchases or carrying the balance over to the next month. A cash advance APR applies if you use your credit card to borrow cash.

A card may also offer an introductory 0% APR, for a limited period. However, once that period is over — or if you miss a payment — the interest rate can skyrocket. Many cards also charge an annual fee for card ownership, a maintenance fee, cash advance fees, foreign transaction fees, returned payment fees, and late payment fees.

If a card offers cash back, find out how much you need to spend to accumulate points or cash back. Check the fine print to find out what types of purchases are qualified and if there are any caps on earning cash and points. Also, read the rules on redeeming rewards, such as when they might expire or be forfeited.

For a sign-up bonus, you might be ineligible if you have owned the same card previously or another family member has the same card.
💡 Quick Tip: Check your credit report at least once a year to ensure there are no errors that can damage your credit score.

Pay on Time and in Full

You will likely incur fees if you miss payments due on your credit card. Also, if you make only the minimum payment on your credit card, you will increase your debt and pay unnecessary interest. But if you pay off your balance in full each month, you are in effect getting a free loan.

If you have multiple credit cards to juggle, it will take dedication to monitor the balances and due dates to avoid late payments, interest charges, and fees. However, managing credit cards responsibly can build your credit history.

Set Up Autopay

Once you understand the terms, conditions, and payment due dates of your various credit cards, set up automatic payments to avoid missing a payment. Missing a payment will mean that you are charged interest, and depending on the balance on the card, the interest payments can be steep.

Set Reminders

Managing multiple credit cards may require setting reminders. For example, if you signed up for a card with an initial period of 0%, you should know when that period ends. Also, keep track of when rewards expire, and when you should redeem points or rewards.

Recommended: What Is a FICO Score?

Simplify Your Payment Due Dates

You may want to change the payment due dates for your cards to make budgeting easier. For example, if the payments for multiple cards all fall on the same day or week, it can be difficult keeping enough cash on hand.

Consider scheduling due dates close to a payday or soon after a direct deposit. It might take one or two billing cycles for your request to take effect.

Know When to Use Each Card

There’s little point juggling multiple credit cards if you don’t use the right card for the right purpose. That’s why studying each card’s terms and conditions is crucial to optimizing the benefits of your cards. For example, some travel cards come with travel protections that will reimburse you if a trip has to be canceled, and co-branded airline cards may offer free checked bags or upgrades.

Keep a Record of Your Credit Card Features

Organization is the key to managing multiple credit cards. You can use a notebook, spreadsheet, or a personal finance app — whatever it takes for you to be able to access the information you need easily.

Some key data to have at your fingertips are the interest rate, credit limit, issue date, annual fees, and payment due dates, the balance from month to month, and the key facts about the rewards program (minimum spending limits, expiration dates, qualified items).

Give Each Card a Purpose

Allocating a purpose for each card will tell you what type of card you might want to get next. For example, you might have a card that offers travel rewards, another card for cash back on groceries, but you might want to also get a card that offers rewards for buying gas. Keep a record of which card serves what purpose.

Carry Only the Cards You Use

Don’t carry all your cards with you all the time. You risk losing them, plus it will make your wallet uncomfortable to carry! There’s no need to carry an airline card that you only use to book flights. Make sure you know which cards charge an inactivity fee, and set up reminders to use the card to avoid such penalties.

Recommended: Find Out Your Credit Score for Free

Use an App to Track Your Card Balances

It’s a good idea to use an app to track your card balances. Apps are particularly useful because they alert you when a payment is due or delinquent. Some apps perform free credit monitoring, help you find a credit card for a specific merchant, and track your loyalty programs.

Signs You Have Too Many Cards

How many cards is too many? That depends on how well you manage them. Here are some indicators that you should consider closing some accounts.

You Can’t Pay the Balance Off Each Month

If you can’t pay off all the balances on your cards each month, you are in danger of falling deeper into debt and having to pay interest. You also risk increasing your credit utilization ratio. When your ratio gets too high, credit card companies may turn you down and credit checks for future employment may be affected..

You’re Missing Payments

If you find it hard to keep track of your credit cards, miss payments, or lose rewards, it’s a sign you might have bitten off more than you can chew. Simplify your financial management by choosing three or four of the most advantageous cards for your lifestyle and cancel the rest.

You’re Earning Too Few Rewards

If you rarely redeem rewards, it might not be worth keeping the card. Not only are you paying a fee for a card that gives you little benefit, but you also have the hassle of keeping track of the card’s features and balance. It might be best to nix these credit cards.

Check your score with SoFi

Track your credit score for free. Sign up and get $10.*

Which Cards Should You Stop Using?

When deciding which credit cards to stop using, list out the benefits of each card. Look at your spending history with that card over the past year and look at what you have gained. If you have spent little and gained little, it’s time to lose the card.

Similarly, if a card charges high annual fees and provides few benefits, don’t keep the card. Also look at the interest rate. If you have a balance on a high-interest card, pay off that debt and close down the card.

When Does It Make Sense to Close a Card?

It makes sense to close a card when you only use it to avoid an inactivity fee, if it provides few benefits, if the fees and interest rate are high, or if you are having trouble paying off the balance each month.
💡 Quick Tip: One way to raise your credit score? Pay your bills on time. Setting up autopay can help you keep your account in good standing.

The Takeaway

Having various cards can be advantageous because you can benefit from rewards and loyalty programs, build your credit history, and take advantage of interest-free credit if you pay off the balance each month. However, each credit card charges various fees, and managing multiple credit cards can be a headache.

When opening a new credit card, make sure the fees, rewards, limitations, and penalties that come with the card make sense for you. Also consider if you can manage the card and pay off the balance each month on time. Lastly, review your portfolio of cards regularly in case it makes sense to close down an account.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

See exactly how your money comes and goes at a glance.

FAQ

How do I manage multiple credit cards?

Managing multiple credit cards comes down to organization. Keep track of all your cards and their various features, including due dates, what you should use them for, the rewards they offer, balances, interest rate, and penalties and fees. There are apps and online tools that help you to manage cards and monitor your credit score.

What is the 15/3 credit card rule?

The 15/3 credit card rule is a strategy to lower your credit utilization ratio. A credit utilization ratio of 30% or below makes you more attractive to lenders. Most people make one credit card payment a month by the due date, but with this strategy, a cardholder makes two payments each month, which reduces your credit utilization ratio significantly. Even if you regularly pay your credit card balance in full each and every month, you may still be carrying a large balance throughout the month, and your credit score may be affected.

How many credit cards is too many?

How many credit cards you should have depends on your lifestyle and how well you manage them. Feeling overwhelmed and making mistakes like not paying off balances on time are indicators that you cannot keep track of your cards. Other indicators that you may have too many credit cards are that you are not seeing much benefit in the way of rewards but are paying high fees, or you have a significant balance on a card with a high interest rate.

Photo credit: iStock/Sitthiphong

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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Source: sofi.com

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The Wells Fargo Autograph Journey card launched in March 2024 as a higher-tier alternative to the $0-annual-fee Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card. The Wells Fargo Autograph Journey has a $95 annual fee, but earns higher rewards rates in certain categories and offers additional perks, including an annual airfare credit and trip cancellation reimbursement.

Here are the card’s benefits:

Spending rewards

1. High ongoing rates

The Wells Fargo Autograph Journey earns:

  • 5 points per $1 on hotels.

  • 4 points per $1 on airlines.

  • 3 points per $1 on other travel and dining.

  • 1 point per $1 on all other purchases.

2. A sign-up bonus

Earn 60,000 bonus rewards points after spending $4,000 in the first three months.

3. A variety of redemption options

Redeem points for travel, cash back, gift cards or merchandise. You can also pay with points at participating merchants, or transfer points to Wells Fargo’s travel partners (more on that below).

Travel benefits

4. Airline statement credit

Get a $50 statement credit each year for an airline purchase of at least $50. This is automatically applied to your account when you make an eligible purchase.

5. Transfer partners

Starting April 2024, Wells Fargo adds the ability to transfer points to partnering airline and hotel loyalty programs, including:

You can transfer your points at a 1:1 value to most of these partners (the exception is Choice Privileges, where points transfer at a 1:2 ratio).

Travel and shopping protections

6. Travel protection

Get reimbursed up to $15,000 if your trip is interrupted or canceled for a covered reason. This benefit covers you and your travel companions for costs including unused transportation, lodging, and tour and activity fees. You can also get reimbursed for travel nightmares like lost baggage.

7. Cell phone protection

Use the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey to pay your cell phone bill and get reimbursed up to $1,000 per claim (with a limit of two claims per year) if your cell phone is damaged or stolen.

Source: nerdwallet.com

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Housewright

Housewright

“Housewright Gallery is the texture I crave when thinking about great home goods stores, and I’m very glad it is local. There hasn’t been a project in the past four to five years that hasn’t benefited from at least an incredible throw blanket or vintage piece from the shop. The bonus? An incredibly thoughtful and engaging gallery of art from some of the Pacific Northwest’s most treasured names as well as up-and-comers that [designer and founder] Tim [Pfeiffer] and the whole team support so well.”

— Brian Paquette, Interior Designer and Founder of Brian Paquette Interiors

The Inside

The Inside

“We love The Inside for fun custom throw pillows in unique prints you can’t find anywhere else. You can choose from two different pillows shapes, seven different sizes, and over 100 different fabrics ranging from moody velvet to floral, botanical, and animal print. If you’re looking for a unique print (or even a cool gift for the home decor lover in your life), look no further!”

—Heather Goerzen, Lead Interior Designer at Havenly

Jayson Home

Jayson Home

“Cameron [Shepherd] and I both previously lived in Chicago and Jayson Home will always have a special place in our hearts. Aside from being beyond gorgeous, the brick and mortar store is a place I’m not only inspired by, but can also find pieces that are totally unique. Anything from a $25 tray for styling to custom sofas and vintage casegoods, Jayson Home really does have it all. Now that I live in Los Angeles, I find myself defaulting to its online store as a trusted source for all of my clients.”

—Jill Norman, Principal Designer and Co-founder of Studio Mesa

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Eleven Home Aesthetics

Eleven Home Aesthetics

“I absolutely love Eleven Home Aesthetics for cute vintage accessory finds like candle holders, vintage books, and pottery. They have great one-of-a-kind pieces that add charm to your home.”

–Antonella Spina, Founder of Luma Interior Design

Cailini Coastal

Cailini Coastal

“I love Cailini because it has been so well edited and has a different approach than other brands. It is very personal and Meg [Young, the founder] brings a California view point that would work for all houses. Love her color sense and especially love her accessories and table top; lobster napkins, great placemats, and faux flowers.”

—Lynn Morgan, Founder of Lynn Morgan Design

Hawkins New York

Hawkins New York

“Hawkins New York is a great brand for unique homewares. The label makes its own pieces with partners from all over the world, in addition to selling a selection of pieces made by other brands it loves. This spot is a go-to for unique glassware and vases, plus all things kitchen: barware, linens, cups and mugs, plates, cutting boards, and more.”

— Heather Goerzen, Lead Interior Designer at Havenly

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Soho Home

Soho home may carry furniture and goods on the pricier end of the spectrum, but dig a little deeper on the website and you’ll find more affordable decorative items. “When I’m looking for decor to make a room feel special, I often find myself browsing the offerings at Soho Home. Created to reflect the aesthetic of the many iconic Soho House properties around the world, Soho Home helps bring the look and feel of these rich interiors into individual homes. I love browsing their site and often find inspiration in the unique selection of forms, colors, and textures featured on their product pages.”

—Cameron Shepherd, Principal Designer and Co-founder of Studio Mesa

Gramercy

“I love shopping for unique blankets at Gramercy. It carries a wide variety of colors, textures, and different price points. Gramercy sells these beautiful cotton Sferra throws that are really well priced. They are available in a plethora of colors and can bring a pop of color on the back of a chair. They are machine washable, which is so nice. I will use these blankets on top of ottomans or sofas where a dog may curl up so that they don’t ruin the upholstery. Then you just toss this blanket in the wash and good as new! My favorite color is the silver sage!”

—Paige Goodloe, Founder of Paige Goodloe Interiors

H&M Home

“I love H&M Home for vessel finds, they have some really pretty glass vases that feel both modern and a bit art deco. We just purchased this vase for our Neo-Grec Revival project and it looks really high quality.”

–Antonella Spina, Founder of Luma Interior Design

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Utopia Goods

Utopia Goods

“Sophie Tatlow, the founder of Utopia Goods, alongside her husband Bruce, is a friend of mine. Bruce’s hand drawings lovingly capture Australia’s unique animals and flowers. They are especially good at creating a festive table top—I currently have my eye on the Grevillia Blue Napkins.”

—Ingrid Weir, Interior Designer at Ingrid Weir

T.J.Maxx

“Our shopping method is always to mix high-and-low items throughout a space. Our go-to budget-friendly stores are Target and Walmart, but we also love T.J.Maxx and HomeGoods! Although our focus is always on top quality and customer service, we like to mix price points within a space when appropriate. There are so many platforms available to our clients now that we are very conscious of where and how we source. For basic pieces that are not unique to one project (like shelf knick knacks) we pop into local big box stores that are more budget approachable and shop online for even more inventory options.”

—Gaelle Dudley, Founder of GLDESIGN

Jamie Young

Jamie Young

“When we came across Jamie Young Co. we knew it would become a staple for our design firm. The pieces are all so aesthetically beautiful and each item is so unique. Recently, we purchased the Foundation Decorative Vase and Elevated Decorative Vase, which are such a striking pair of ceramic pieces and are beautifully finished by hand. They are stunning and the perfect addition to our clients’ bookcases. Jamie Young’s pieces are unique and are obviously aesthetically beautiful, but what really stands out is the quality of the craftsmanship. Each time I sink into the leather seat of the Abilene chair or open the doors of the Chauncey bar cabinet, I am instantly reminded of that quality.”

—Laura Chappetto, Owner and Principal Designer of Element Design Network

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CB2

“Accessories are the ‘cherry on top’ in the design process and by far our favorite part! Every client and each project is different, but we approach the process in the same way each time. We create a shopping list by room and then go on the hunt! We start with some of our favorite online sources, most of which are wholesale vendors, but a couple of our favorites are retail vendors. CB2 is fantastic—we love us a good ‘object de art’ and CB2 is always bringing in new options!”

—Miranda Cullen, Principal Designer and Founder of Inside Stories

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Source: housebeautiful.com

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Whether you’re going on a far-flung adventure this spring or plan on sticking closer to home, the quarterly bonus categories on the Chase Freedom Flex℠ and the original Chase Freedom® give you plenty of opportunities to earn elevated rewards on everyday purchases and maybe some splurges, too. And if you have the Flex version of the card, the quarterly categories are especially rich.

Holders of the Chase Freedom Flex℠ and the Chase Freedom® earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined spending in bonus categories that change every three months. From April 1 through June 30, 2024, the bonus categories are:

  • Select hotel bookings.

If you have the Chase Freedom Flex℠, you may notice that a couple of those categories already earn extra cash back because of the card’s fixed bonus rewards. The quarterly bonus rates “stack” on top of those. That means Flex cardholders (but not holders of the original Freedom) can earn up to 9% back on hotels booked through Chase, and up to 7% back on dining purchases. More on that below.

To receive elevated rewards, cardholders need to activate the bonus categories online by June 14. Rewards will apply retroactively, so as long as you activate by the deadline, you’ll earn extra cash back on all eligible purchases made throughout the quarter.

Chase Freedom® and Chase Freedom Flex℠ bonus rewards categories for 2024

Q1 (Jan. 1-March 31)

  • Grocery stores.

  • Fitness clubs and gym memberships.

  • Self-care and spa services.

Q2 (April 1-June 30)

  • Select hotel bookings.

  • Restaurants.

  • Amazon.com.

Q3 (July 1-Sept. 30)

  • TBD (In 2023: Gas stations and electric vehicle charging; select live entertainment).

Q4 (Oct. 1-Dec. 31)

  • TBD (In 2023: PayPal; wholesale clubs; select charities).

Stacked rewards let Flex cardholders score big

Amazon is a mainstay bonus category for quarterly rewards, and the sheer breadth of items you can buy through the online marketplace makes it an easy way to earn extra rewards. But the other two categories — dining and select hotel bookings — have the potential to be much more valuable for Chase Freedom Flex℠ cardholders, thanks to the card’s ongoing rewards. Here’s how.

In addition to the bonus cash back cardholders can earn in rotating categories, the Chase Freedom Flex℠ also has the following “fixed” bonus categories that don’t change:

  • 3% back at restaurants.

  • 3% back at drugstores.

  • 5% back on qualifying Lyft services purchased through the Lyft app (through March 31, 2025). 

  • 1% back on all other purchases.

Hotels booked through Chase already earn elevated rewards throughout the year (5% back), as do dining purchases (3% back). The quarterly bonus doesn’t replace those rewards; it “stacks” on top of them, meaning you can earn up to 9% back on hotels booked through Chase, and up to 7% back on dining purchases.

The original Chase Freedom® (which is no longer available to new applicants) has the same 5% rotating bonus calendar but does not have the fixed categories. So holders of that card will earn 5% in all of the quarterly categories.

🤓Nerdy Tip

Why 7% and 9%? When Chase awards 5% cash back in its quarterly categories, it does so using this logic: Purchases that normally get 1% cash back are now earning an additional 4% cash back — so the quarterly bonus is 4% on top of the usual rewards. So for the second quarter of 2024, restaurant spending that usually earns 3% with Chase Freedom Flex℠ earns 4% on top of that, for a total of 7%. Hotels booked through Chase usually earn 5%, so adding 4% to that gets you to 9% cash back.

Watch out for foreign transaction fees

These elevated rewards on dining and hotels booked through Chase make the Chase Freedom Flex℠ and Chase Freedom® ideal travel companions for spring and early summer trips. But if you’re traveling internationally, you might want to think twice before you whip out either card to pay for a meal or a hotel reservation.

Chase generally charges a 3% foreign transaction fee on its nontravel credit cards, which will cut into the value of any rewards you earn. The reward rates are high enough that you can still come out ahead, but you may need to do a little math first.

  • The information related to Chase Freedom® credit card has been collected by NerdWallet and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card.

Source: nerdwallet.com