How to Get a Loan on Jewelry in South Shore
- signature801
- Dec 26, 2025
- 21 min read
That jewelry box sitting on your dresser might be holding more than just memories—it could be a source of immediate cash. Many of us have pieces we rarely wear, like an inherited watch, a gifted necklace that isn’t quite our style, or even a broken gold chain. Instead of letting them collect dust, you can use them to secure a loan. Unlike selling, a loan lets you access their value for a short time while retaining ownership. It’s a fast, discreet way to handle a financial gap without a credit check. For anyone needing a loan on jewelry South Shore, these overlooked assets can be the key to getting the funds you need today.
Key Takeaways
- Your Loan Collateral is More Than Just Perfect Jewelry
: Don't overlook tangled chains, single earrings, or antique watches. The value is in the raw materials and craftsmanship, meaning a wide variety of items—even damaged ones—can qualify for a loan.
- Decide if You Want a Temporary or Permanent Solution
: A loan is your best option if you want your item back; it's a short-term cash solution where you retain ownership. Selling is a final transaction, ideal for pieces you're ready to part with for good.
- A Trustworthy Lender is as Important as a Good Offer
: Look for a lender who is transparent about interest rates, fees, and secure storage. The right partner will ensure you understand the entire process and feel confident that your valuables are protected.
When you think about getting a loan on your jewelry, you might picture a flawless diamond ring or a heavy gold necklace. While those certainly qualify, you might be surprised by the wide range of items that can be used as collateral. Lenders are interested in the intrinsic value of your pieces, which means they look at the precious metals, the quality of the gemstones, the brand name, and the craftsmanship.
You don't need a perfect, brand-new item to secure a loan. That tangled gold chain in your jewelry box, the single diamond earring whose partner is long gone, or the antique watch you inherited all have potential. The key is to understand what makes a piece valuable. It’s less about its original price tag and more about its current market value, which is determined by the materials and demand. From classic gold and platinum pieces to designer watches and even broken items, many different types of jewelry can help you get the cash you need. Let’s look at what kinds of pieces are most commonly accepted.
Gold, Silver, and Platinum Pieces
Jewelry made from precious metals is the most straightforward type of collateral for a loan. Think of your gold chains, silver bracelets, platinum rings, and even gold coins. Because the value is based on the weight and purity of the metal itself, the condition is often secondary. A professional appraiser can determine the value of these items based on the current market rates for the metal. This means that even items you might consider "out of style" or slightly worn can still be quite valuable. Don't overlook anything—from class rings and old necklaces to mismatched earrings. These pieces are often valued for their melt value, making them excellent candidates for a loan.
Diamond Jewelry and Gemstones
If you have jewelry with diamonds or other precious gemstones, you’re in a great position. Diamonds are always in demand, and their value is assessed based on the well-known "4 Cs": cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. If you have any paperwork or certifications for your diamonds, like a GIA certificate, be sure to bring it with you, as this can make the appraisal process quicker and more precise. But it’s not just about diamonds. Jewelry featuring other valuable gemstones like sapphires, rubies, and emeralds also qualifies. Even loose stones that aren't set in a piece of jewelry can be appraised and used to secure a loan.
Luxury and Designer Watches
A high-end timepiece is more than just a way to tell time—it's a valuable asset. Luxury and designer watches from brands like Rolex, Cartier, Patek Philippe, and Omega are highly sought-after and can secure a significant loan amount. The value of a watch depends on several factors, including the brand, model, age, condition, and rarity. Having the original box and paperwork can add to its value, as it helps prove authenticity and provides a complete set for a potential collector. Whether it’s a modern classic or a vintage treasure, a luxury watch is an excellent piece to use for a collateral loan.
Antique and Estate Jewelry
That unique brooch you inherited from your grandmother or the Art Deco ring you found at a market could be more valuable than you realize. Antique jewelry (typically over 100 years old) and estate jewelry (any piece that has been previously owned) are valued for more than just their materials. Their worth is also tied to their history, craftsmanship, rarity, and the design period they represent. Pieces from specific eras, like the Victorian, Edwardian, or Art Deco periods, often carry a premium. Don’t dismiss older items just because they aren’t your style; their unique character and historical significance can make them prime candidates for a loan.
Even Broken or Damaged Items
It’s a common misconception that broken jewelry is worthless. The truth is, even damaged pieces can be used to get a loan. A broken gold chain, a ring with a missing stone, or a single earring still contains valuable materials. Lenders can assess the value of the precious metal based on its weight and purity—often called its "scrap value." Any remaining diamonds or gemstones can also be appraised separately. So, before you toss that tangled necklace or bent ring, bring it in for an evaluation. You might be holding onto an easy source of cash without even knowing it.
How Much Can You Borrow?
This is usually the first question on everyone’s mind, and the answer is: it depends entirely on your jewelry. The amount you can borrow is directly tied to the current market value of your item. It’s not based on the original price tag or its sentimental value, but rather what a professional appraiser determines it’s worth today. Think of it as its resale value. A reputable lender will carefully assess your piece and offer you a loan that reflects a fair percentage of that value.
The great thing about a jewelry loan is that you’re getting access to cash quickly without having to part with your valuables for good. You still own your item; you’re just using it as collateral to secure the funds you need. The process is designed to be straightforward, but understanding how lenders arrive at their loan offer will help you feel confident that you’re getting a good deal. We’ll walk through the key things that determine your loan amount, from industry-standard ratios to the specific qualities of your jewelry that add to its value.
Understanding Loan-to-Value Ratios
When you get a loan offer, it will be for a percentage of your item’s appraised value. This is known as the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio. Generally, you can expect to be offered between 25% and 60% of your jewelry’s resale value. So, if you have a ring with a resale value of $1,000, a typical loan offer might be anywhere from $250 to $600.
This range exists because the lender takes on a risk. If you’re unable to repay the loan, their only way to recover the funds is by selling the item. The LTV ratio gives them a cushion to cover the costs of storage, security, and the sale itself, while still allowing them to offer you immediate cash without a credit check.
Factors That Affect Your Loan Amount
So, what exactly does an appraiser look for when determining your jewelry’s value? It’s a detailed process where every element matters. For gold, silver, or platinum, the primary factors are the weight and purity (the karat). For diamonds, it’s all about the 4Cs: cut, color, clarity, and carat weight.
If you’re bringing in a luxury watch, the brand, model, age, and overall condition are key. Having the original box and paperwork can also significantly increase the value. Beyond the physical attributes of your piece, our appraisers also consider the current market demand for specific metals, gemstones, and watch brands. This comprehensive evaluation ensures your loan offer is based on a true, up-to-date valuation of what your item is worth.
Typical Loan Amounts in South Shore
While the average pawn shop loan in North America is quite low—sometimes around $150—loans on fine jewelry are in a completely different league. The value is in the precious materials and craftsmanship, so the loan amounts are naturally much higher. At a specialized jewelry lender, you won’t get a generic offer. Instead, your loan is tailored specifically to your item.
Whether you have a simple gold bracelet, an antique diamond ring, or a high-end Rolex, the loan offer will reflect its unique value. Here in the South Shore, working with an experienced, family-owned business means you’re getting an expert appraisal from someone who truly understands the jewelry market. This expertise is key to getting the maximum possible loan for your valuables, ensuring the amount you can borrow is fair and substantial.
What Are the Loan Terms and Rates?
Once you have a loan offer, the next step is understanding the fine print. This isn’t as intimidating as it sounds. A trustworthy lender will walk you through everything, but it’s always smart to know the basics of what to expect. The terms, rates, and repayment options are the core of your agreement, and they determine how the loan will work for you. At Signature Gold Loans, we believe in complete transparency, so you’ll never encounter hidden fees or confusing language. Let’s break down what these terms typically look like.
How Long Is the Loan Term?
When you get a loan on your jewelry, it’s for a set period. While this can vary, a common structure for collateral loans is a 120-day term. Think of this as the total initial lifespan of your loan. However, you don’t have to wait 120 days to make a payment. Interest is usually calculated every 30 days. The great part is that each time you pay the interest charge, your loan term automatically extends for another 30 days. This system is designed to be flexible, giving you the breathing room you might need without the pressure of a single, looming deadline. It puts you in control of the timeline.
Interest rates are a key part of any loan. For jewelry loans, the rate is often expressed as a monthly percentage. For example, you might see a rate of 2.5% per month. It’s important to ask for the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) as well, so you can fully understand the cost of borrowing over a full year. Rates can depend on the loan amount and the value of your item. While the National Pawnbrokers Association notes the average pawn loan in the U.S. is around $150, loans on high-end jewelry, diamonds, and luxury watches can be significantly larger. A reputable lender will always be upfront about their rates and any associated fees before you sign anything.
Your Options for Extensions and Renewals
Life doesn’t always go according to plan, and lenders understand that. The renewal process for a jewelry loan is typically straightforward and built right into the payment structure. As mentioned, paying your monthly interest charge effectively renews your loan for another 30 days. This is one of the biggest advantages of a jewelry loan—you can extend it for as long as you need, as long as you keep up with the interest payments. This flexibility ensures you don’t have to rush to repay the full principal amount. If you’re ready to pay everything back and retrieve your item, you can do that at any time without penalties.
How the Jewelry Loan Process Works
Getting a loan on your jewelry might sound complicated, but it’s actually a very straightforward and quick process. It’s a great way to access cash when you need it without having to part with a treasured item for good. Let’s walk through the four simple steps, so you know exactly what to expect when you work with us.
Step 1: The Professional Appraisal
The first thing that happens is a professional appraisal of your item. You’ll bring your jewelry, watch, or other valuables to us, and our expert appraisers will carefully evaluate them. We look at factors like the materials (gold, platinum), the quality of any gemstones or diamonds, the brand, and the overall condition. This isn’t just a quick glance; it’s a detailed assessment to determine the item’s true market value. Based on this evaluation, we’ll make you a fair and competitive loan offer. It’s all about making sure you get the maximum possible value for your piece.
Step 2: The Loan Agreement and Paperwork
Once you’ve received your loan offer and decide to accept it, the next step is the paperwork. We’ll go over the loan agreement with you, which is a simple contract that lays out all the terms. This document will clearly state the loan amount, the interest rate, and the repayment schedule. We believe in complete transparency, so we’ll make sure you understand every detail before you sign. This is your chance to ask any questions you have. Our goal is to ensure you feel confident and comfortable with the terms of your loan.
Step 3: Securing Your Valuables
After the agreement is signed, we take responsibility for your item. We understand that your jewelry isn’t just valuable—it’s often sentimental. That’s why we treat every piece with the utmost care. Your item will be sealed and stored in our highly secure, state-of-the-art vault for the duration of the loan. Our facility is fully protected by specialized jewelry insurance and monitored 24/7, giving you complete peace of mind. Your valuables are protected and kept in the exact same condition as when you left them, waiting safely for you.
Step 4: Getting Your Cash the Same Day
This is the best part: you get your money right away. Unlike traditional bank loans that can involve long waiting periods and credit checks, a jewelry loan is incredibly fast. As soon as the paperwork is complete, we provide you with your funds. In most cases, the entire process, from appraisal to cash-in-hand, takes less than an hour. You can walk in with your jewelry and walk out with the cash you need on the very same day. It’s a simple, discreet, and immediate solution when you need fast access to funds.
Loan vs. Sell: Which Is Right for You?
Deciding whether to get a loan on your jewelry or sell it outright is a big decision, and the right answer depends entirely on your personal situation. There’s no single correct choice, but understanding the key differences can help you feel confident in your path forward. Think about your emotional attachment to the piece and your long-term financial needs. Are you looking for a permanent solution or a temporary bridge to cover an unexpected expense? Let's walk through the benefits of each option so you can figure out what works best for you.
The Benefits of Getting a Loan
The biggest advantage of a collateral loan is that you get the cash you need without saying a final goodbye to your valuables. If you have a piece with deep sentimental value—like a family heirloom or an engagement ring—a loan allows you to use its value as security while retaining ownership. It’s an ideal solution for short-term financial hurdles. You receive a loan based on the item's appraised value, and once you repay the loan plus any agreed-upon interest and fees, you get your item back. The process is also fast and discreet, with no credit checks required, making it a great alternative to traditional bank loans when you need access to funds quickly.
The Advantages of Selling
If you’re ready to part with your jewelry and have no desire to get it back, selling is the most straightforward option. This path offers a clean break—you receive your cash, and the transaction is complete. There are no repayment plans or interest to worry about. Selling is a great choice for jewelry you no longer wear or pieces that don't carry significant emotional weight. It can also be a way to simplify your life or fund a new purchase. At a reputable buyer like Signature Gold Loans, you can get a fair offer and be paid the very same day, providing an immediate and permanent financial solution.
How to Make the Right Choice
To make the right choice, start by asking yourself one simple question: "Do I want this item back?" If the answer is a definite yes, a loan is your best bet. It gives you the financial flexibility you need without forcing you to sacrifice something meaningful. If the answer is no, or if you prefer not to have a loan to repay, then selling is the clear winner. Also, consider your financial situation. A loan is designed to be a temporary fix. If you need a larger sum of money or want to completely liquidate an asset, selling will likely yield a higher cash amount and provide a more permanent financial resolution.
How to Choose the Right Lender in South Shore
When you decide to get a loan on your jewelry, you’re not just looking for cash—you’re looking for a partner you can trust with your valuable and often sentimental items. The lender you choose can make all the difference between a smooth, positive experience and a stressful one. It’s about more than just the loan amount; it’s about finding a reputable business that respects you and your property. A great lender will be transparent, experienced, and secure, giving you complete confidence throughout the process. Taking a little time to vet your options in the South Shore area will ensure you find a professional who offers fair terms and peace of mind.
Look for Experience and Expertise
When you’re using a valuable piece of jewelry as collateral, you need a lender who truly understands its worth. Look for a business with a long history and deep expertise in jewelry, diamonds, and luxury watches. An experienced appraiser can accurately assess your items, ensuring you get the best possible loan offer. Unlike traditional banks, specialized lenders understand that luxury assets can serve as loan collateral without needing credit checks or employment history. A lender with years in the business has the knowledge and resources to confidently offer a loan that reflects up to 80% of your jewelry’s liquid value, giving you access to the funds you need.
Insist on Transparency and Fair Terms
A trustworthy lender will always be upfront about their loan terms. Before you agree to anything, you should have a crystal-clear understanding of the interest rates, fees, and repayment schedule. There should be no surprises or hidden costs. For example, some lenders clearly state their interest rates and APR so you know exactly what to expect. Don’t hesitate to ask questions. A reputable lender will happily walk you through the contract and provide everything in writing. If a lender is vague or pressures you to sign quickly, consider it a red flag and walk away. Your financial well-being depends on making an informed decision.
Confirm Secure Storage and Insurance
You’re handing over a valuable possession, so it’s perfectly reasonable to ask how it will be protected. A professional lender should have a secure, insured facility to store your jewelry while it’s in their care. Ask about their security measures—are items stored in a vault? Is the facility monitored? What is their insurance policy? Knowing that your collateral is protected against theft, loss, or damage provides essential peace of mind. A lender who prioritizes the secure handling of your items demonstrates their professionalism and respect for your property. Never leave your jewelry with a lender who can’t provide clear answers about its safety.
Check Their Reputation and Reviews
Before you visit a lender, do a little research online. What are past clients saying about them? A quick search for reviews on Google or other platforms can give you a good sense of their reputation in the community. A business with a long list of positive testimonials is likely doing something right. Finding the right lender for jewelry collateral loans is crucial, so take the time to see what others have experienced. A family-owned business with deep roots in the South Shore area often has a reputation built on generations of trust and fair dealing, making them a reliable choice.
How to Prepare Your Jewelry for the Best Loan Offer
Walking into a lender's office can feel intimidating, but a little prep work can make all the difference. When you're looking for a loan on your jewelry, taking a few simple steps beforehand can help you feel more confident and secure the best possible offer. It’s not about trying to fool an appraiser—it’s about presenting your items clearly and professionally so their true value can be accurately assessed. Think of it as setting yourself up for success. By organizing your items and information, you make the process smoother for everyone and show that you’re a serious, prepared client. Here’s what you can do to get ready.
Clean and Present Your Pieces
First impressions count, even for jewelry. Before you bring your pieces in, take a moment to gently clean them. You don’t need a professional cleaning; a simple wipe with a soft, lint-free cloth can remove dust and fingerprints, allowing the metal and gemstones to shine. A well-presented piece shows that it has been cared for, which can positively influence an appraiser's assessment. If you have the original box or pouch, bring that along too. It’s a small detail that adds to the overall presentation and helps protect your jewelry on the way over. This simple step ensures your items are seen in their best light, helping the lender accurately evaluate their quality.
Gather Your Certificates and Appraisals
Any documentation you have for your jewelry is worth its weight in gold—sometimes literally. Before your visit, gather any original receipts, appraisals, or certificates of authenticity. For diamonds, a GIA certificate is the industry standard and provides a detailed analysis of the stone’s quality, which is incredibly helpful for an accurate valuation. These documents prove ownership and authenticity, removing any guesswork for the appraiser. This transparency makes the valuation process quicker and more straightforward, often resulting in a stronger loan offer. It shows the lender exactly what they are looking at, which builds trust and helps you get the full value your piece deserves.
Know What Your Jewelry Is Worth
While our expert appraisers will determine the final value, it helps to have a general idea of what your jewelry is worth before you come in. Do a little research on similar pieces online to get a ballpark figure. Remember that a loan offer is based on the item’s resale market value, not the original retail price you paid. The resale value reflects what a buyer would pay for it today. Having this context helps you understand the offer and sets realistic expectations. This knowledge empowers you during the conversation, ensuring you feel confident and informed from start to finish.
What Happens If You Can't Repay the Loan?
Life happens, and sometimes circumstances change, making it difficult to repay a loan on time. It’s a completely valid concern, and thankfully, the process for a jewelry loan is much more straightforward and less stressful than with a traditional bank loan. Because your jewelry acts as collateral, the lender has a built-in way to recover the loan amount without involving credit agencies or collections. This structure gives you clear options and protects your financial standing if you find yourself unable to pay. Let’s walk through exactly what you can expect.
Understanding Grace Periods and Options
If your loan’s due date is approaching and you need more time, you often have options. Many lenders offer a grace period, which is an additional window of time after your original deadline to repay the loan in full. It’s essential to ask about this upfront so you know the specific policy. Another common option is to renew or extend your loan. This typically involves paying the interest that has accrued, which then resets the clock and starts a new loan term. This can be a great way to keep your loan in good standing without losing your valuable item.
What Happens if You Default
If you can’t repay the loan or pay the interest to extend it, and the grace period passes, you will default on the loan. While that word sounds intimidating, the consequence is simple: the lender takes ownership of the item you left as collateral. That’s it. The transaction is considered complete. The lender will then sell the jewelry to recover the money they loaned you. There are no collection calls or legal repercussions. The debt is settled once the lender possesses the item, providing a clean and final resolution.
Good News: It Won't Affect Your Credit Score
Here’s the best part: defaulting will not impact your credit score. Because the loan is secured by a physical asset, lenders don’t need to run a credit check to approve you. The loan is based on the value of your item, not your credit history. Consequently, if you can't repay it, the lender doesn't report the default to credit bureaus. You simply forfeit the item. This process protects your credit rating and is a key benefit of a collateral loan, allowing you to get cash without long-term risk to your financial health.
Jewelry Loans: Fact vs. Fiction
Getting a loan on your jewelry can feel like stepping into a world of unknowns. There are a lot of myths and misconceptions floating around that can make the process seem confusing or even a little intimidating. Let's clear the air and separate the facts from the fiction so you can move forward with confidence. Understanding the truth behind these common myths will help you see if a jewelry loan is the right financial move for you.
Myth: It's the Same as Selling
One of the biggest misunderstandings is that getting a loan on your jewelry is the same as selling it. That’s simply not the case. When you get a collateral loan, you’re using your jewelry as security for a short-term cash loan. Think of it as a temporary arrangement. You receive the cash you need, and we safely store your item. Once you repay the loan plus any agreed-upon fees, your jewelry comes right back to you. Selling is a permanent, one-time transaction. A loan gives you the flexibility to get your cherished items back.
Myth: You'll Get the Full Retail Value
It’s important to have realistic expectations about your loan amount. A common myth is that you’ll be offered the full retail price—what you might have paid for the item in a store. In reality, loan offers are based on the item's resale or wholesale value, which is typically lower. Lenders generally offer a percentage of this value, often between 25% and 60%. This is because the loan is secured only by the item itself, and the lender needs to account for the possibility of having to sell it if the loan isn't repaid. Understanding your jewelry's actual worth helps set a practical baseline before you walk in.
Myth: It Will Hurt Your Credit Score
Worried about your credit score? You can relax. A jewelry loan will not impact your credit history in any way. Because these are collateral loans, the item you provide secures the loan, not your credit rating. We don’t run credit checks to approve you, so there’s no inquiry on your report. If for some reason you can't repay the loan, we simply keep the item to cover the cost. There are no collections agencies and no negative marks on your credit file. This makes it a discreet and low-risk way to access cash, especially if you have a less-than-perfect credit history.
Your First Visit: What to Expect and How to Prepare
Walking into a lender’s office for the first time can feel a little intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. With a bit of preparation, you can approach the process with confidence and ensure you get the best possible offer for your jewelry. Think of it less like a transaction and more like a conversation. You’re bringing in a valuable piece with personal history, and you want to work with someone who respects that. A reputable lender understands this and will make you feel comfortable and informed every step of the way. Taking a few simple steps before you visit can make a huge difference in the loan amount you’re offered and your overall experience. It’s all about knowing what you have, understanding the process, and finding a partner you can trust.
Do Your Homework First
Before you head out the door, take a little time to get your items ready. First impressions matter, even for jewelry. As experts suggest, "Make sure your jewelry is clean and in good condition, and when possible, bring any certificates of authenticity to get the best offer." A gentle cleaning can reveal the true sparkle of a piece, making it easier to appraise accurately. If you have any original paperwork, like a GIA certificate for a diamond, receipts, or the original box, gather those as well. This documentation helps establish provenance and quality, which can directly influence the value and the loan offer you receive.
It’s always a good idea to shop around and not just accept the first offer you get. Loan amounts can differ quite a bit from one lender to the next. According to the National Pawnbrokers Association, the average loan is around $150, but this can "vary significantly" depending on the item and the lender. Getting a few different appraisals gives you a better sense of your jewelry's market value and helps you find the most favorable loan terms. A trustworthy lender will provide a no-pressure valuation and encourage you to make the decision that’s right for you. This is your chance to find a partner who offers both a fair price and flexible terms.
Read the Fine Print Before You Sign
This is the most critical step. Before you agree to anything, make sure you fully understand the terms of the loan. You should be crystal clear on the interest rate, any associated fees, and the repayment schedule. For example, some lenders might have an interest rate of "2.5% per month or 30% APR," while others structure repayment differently, where "the term of the loan is 120 days with interest being charged every 30 days." Don't be shy about asking questions. What happens if you need an extension? Are there any penalties for early repayment? A transparent lender will walk you through the entire loan agreement and ensure you feel completely comfortable before you sign.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to make an appointment to get my jewelry appraised? You can simply walk in whenever it's convenient for you. We welcome you to bring your items in for a professional, no-obligation appraisal. The process is quick, and we can usually give you a loan offer on the spot, so there's no need to plan far in advance.
I'm worried about leaving my sentimental pieces behind. How do I know they'll be safe? This is a concern we take very seriously because we know your jewelry is more than just an asset. Once you agree to the loan, your item is sealed and placed in our high-security vault. Our facility is fully insured and monitored around the clock, so you can have complete peace of mind that your valuables are protected and will be returned to you in the exact same condition.
What if I decide I'd rather sell my jewelry instead of getting a loan? That's absolutely an option, and we are happy to provide you with a purchase offer for your items. The main difference is that selling is a final transaction, while a loan gives you the ability to get your jewelry back. We can discuss both paths with you during your appraisal so you can make the choice that feels right for your situation.
Will a jewelry loan affect my credit score if I'm late or can't pay it back? Not at all. Your credit score is completely unaffected by a jewelry loan. We don't perform credit checks to approve the loan, and we don't report any payment information to credit bureaus. If you're unable to repay, you simply forfeit the item you used as collateral, and the loan is considered settled with no further obligation.
How do you figure out how much my jewelry is worth? Our expert appraisers determine the value based on several key factors. For metals like gold or platinum, we look at the weight and purity. For diamonds, we assess the cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. With watches, the brand, model, and condition are most important. We combine this detailed evaluation with current market demand to arrive at a fair and competitive value for your piece.






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