The team at Longhorn Gold and Silver Exchange has developed a reputation as trustworthy precious metals dealers in McKinney, owner Pete Ramirez said.
“I’m not a fly-by-night place,” Ramirez said. “[Customers] prefer a solid foundation that’s been here. They know I’m going to be here tomorrow. They know I’m going to be here next year.”
The details
Longhorn Gold and Silver Exchange offers cash for coins, bouillon, jewelry and other items made of gold, silver, diamonds and platinum. Staff can also help customers determine if items are genuine with an acid test.
During the test, staff members rub the metal item onto a testing stone before applying a drop of acid. If the acid does not wash away the deposits of metal on the stone, the material is authentic.
“It’s a very fast process,” Ramirez said. “You can go through a whole bag of stuff in like two or three minutes.”
Silver coins and bars are the most common items customers bring into the shop to exchange because silver is much more affordable than gold, Ramirez said.
Customers can also purchase gold and silver bullion and coins from the shop, Ramirez said.
Precious metals are stable investments because the value doesn’t fluctuate as it does with the stock market, customer Jorge Rosa said.
“It’s a legit way of storing money,” he said.
What sets it apart
Longhorn Gold and Silver Exchange has been operating in McKinney for over 13 years.
“Pete’s a likable guy and that’s why he’s been here 13 years,” Rosa said. “People keep coming back again and again and again.”
Staff members prioritize the customer experience and transparency, partner Alex Tortorello said.
“Legitimacy is the name of the game,” he said.
Quote of note
“This business attracts a specific niche of people, and there’s a camaraderie among them because they know there’s a small percentage of them out there,” Tortorello said.
Plan your visit
Longhorn Gold and Silver Exchange is open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon.-Sat. and noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays.
