What is AJPM?
Affordable Jewelry & Precious Metals (AJPM) is a well-regarded business specializing in precious metals, based in Portland, Oregon. Established in 1991 by Rodney and Vicki Scott, the company has become a trusted destination for customers seeking silver, gold, platinum bullion, and rare collectible items.
Over the years, AJPM has solidified its reputation as a leading provider of high-quality products in the precious metals market, offering clients a secure and reliable option for investment and collection purposes.
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More About the People Behind AJPM
Rodney and Vicki Scott entered the precious metals industry with a strong foundation in collectibles and bullion. They began their entrepreneurial journey in 1986 with Medallion Specialties Inc., a company that catered primarily to coin collectors and investors interested in precious metal bars.
Through Medallion Specialties, they gained valuable industry experience and insight into customer preferences within the precious metals market.
Five years later, they recognized an opportunity to broaden their offerings and founded AJPM.
The Scotts’ vision was to create a business beyond just selling metals. They wanted to build a reputation based on trust, fair pricing, and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. This “customer-first” philosophy has been a cornerstone of AJPM’s approach since day one and has significantly contributed to its success in a competitive industry.
By focusing on long-term relationships with clients rather than short-term gains, Rodney and Vicki Scott laid the foundation for a business that stands out for its ethical practices and high-quality service.
AJPM’s Product Offerings and Services
AJPM specializes in a variety of precious metal products, including silver, gold, and platinum bullion. These metals appeal to investors and collectors alike, serving as both a stable investment and a form of wealth preservation. AJPM’s offerings include American Eagles, Canadian Maple Leafs, Krugerrands, and other globally recognized bullion coins.
The company’s range extends beyond just investment-grade bullion, as it also provides an assortment of collectible coins that appeal to numismatic enthusiasts.
The business is known for its competitive pricing, which has helped establish AJPM as a favorite among customers seeking value for their investments.
AJPM’s pricing structure reflects the founders’ commitment to affordability, ensuring that both new and seasoned investors can access quality precious metals without the pressure of inflated costs. This approach has built customer loyalty and set AJPM apart as a transparent and customer-oriented business.
Expansion and Accessibility
As the business grew, so did AJPM’s physical presence. Starting with its Portland location, the company eventually opened additional stores, including one in Tigard, Oregon, broadening its reach to accommodate a larger customer base. These physical locations provide an accessible platform for individuals interested in viewing products in person, seeking advice from knowledgeable staff, or making secure in-store purchases. The expansion into multiple locations signifies AJPM’s success and its founders’ foresight in responding to growing demand.
AJPM’s in-store experience is designed to make customers feel comfortable and well-informed, regardless of their investment knowledge or experience level.
The company takes pride in its well-trained staff, who guide customers through their purchasing decisions, explaining the nuances of each product and offering insights into market trends.
This hands-on approach is particularly beneficial to novice investors, who might be unfamiliar with the intricacies of bullion and collectible coins.
Commitment to Integrity and Trust
The Scotts have built AJPM on a foundation of integrity, striving to foster trust with every customer interaction. This commitment is evident in AJPM’s transparent business practices, where each transaction is straightforward, with no hidden fees or surprises. This ethical approach to business has been instrumental in building a loyal customer base that returns to AJPM for all its precious metal needs.
Clients trust that they are receiving fair prices, genuine products, and honest advice, which are essential elements in a field where trust is paramount.
AJPM has made integrity a priority not only in customer relations but also in its sourcing practices. The company works diligently to ensure that all metals and coins are sourced responsibly and meet the highest standards of authenticity. In an industry where counterfeit products are a real concern, AJPM’s commitment to authenticity reassures customers that their investments are secure and of legitimate value.
Why AJPM Stands Out
In an era where precious metals remain a popular investment for portfolio diversification and a hedge against inflation, AJPM has positioned itself as a reliable partner for those looking to enter the market.
The company’s strong reputation is a direct result of Rodney and Vicki Scott’s dedication to their founding principles: fair pricing, exceptional customer service, and a trustworthy business model.
The couple’s extensive experience and passion for the industry continue to shape AJPM’s growth, making it a leading option for both individual investors and collectors.
Looking ahead, AJPM is well-poised to continue its legacy as a dependable source of precious metals.
By staying true to its values and maintaining a customer-first approach, AJPM ensures that it remains a relevant and respected player in the industry. Whether individuals are looking to diversify their investments with bullion or expand their coin collections, AJPM offers a trusted and welcoming environment, with a focus on quality, transparency, and integrity.
AJPM Custodial and Storage Services
AJPM operates primarily as a retail supplier of precious metals and does not provide custodial or storage services for individual retirement accounts (IRAs).
Unlike some other precious metals dealers that partner with IRA custodians to offer secure storage options for clients, AJPM has chosen not to engage in any formal partnerships with IRA custodial companies.
Additionally, AJPM does not offer in-house vault storage, so customers seeking to store their purchased metals securely are advised to explore third-party custodial services or storage facilities to meet those needs.
This approach allows AJPM to focus its efforts entirely on offering a wide range of products to meet the diverse needs of its clients.
AJPM Product Offerings
The AJPM product catalog includes a variety of gold, silver, and platinum bullion, as well as a selection of numismatic coins for collectors.
AJPM is known for offering high-quality products that are suitable for investors seeking to diversify their portfolios with precious metals.
The company’s inventory includes popular IRA-eligible coins such as the American Gold Eagle, Gold Canadian Maple Leaf, Gold American Buffalo, American Silver Eagle, Canadian Silver Maple Leaf, and the Platinum Canadian Maple Leaf.
These coins meet the purity standards required for inclusion in self-directed IRAs, making them attractive options for investors looking to add tangible assets to their retirement savings.
In addition to these widely recognized coins, AJPM also offers gold, silver, and platinum bars in various weights, catering to customers interested in purchasing bullion in larger quantities or with more specific investment goals.
These bars provide an economical way to invest in precious metals, as they often carry lower premiums than coins. This range of options allows customers to tailor their purchases according to their budget, investment strategy, or collection preferences.
With its extensive selection of bullion and collectible items, AJPM continues to be a reliable source of precious metals, appealing to both new investors and seasoned collectors.
Services Offered by Affordable Jewelry and Precious Metals
1. Buying Precious Metals
AJPM offers a broad selection of precious metals, making it easy for investors and collectors to find the gold, silver, and platinum items they are looking for. For those interested in gold, the inventory includes a wide range of popular options such as the American Eagle, American Buffalo, Canadian Maple Leaf, Chinese Panda, Australian Kangaroo, Austrian Philharmonic, South African Krugerrand, British Sovereigns, European 20 Francs, and Perth Mint Bars. These products are well-known for their quality, authenticity, and investment value, appealing to both new investors and seasoned collectors.
For those looking to invest in palladium, AJPM carries items such as the American Eagle, Canadian Maple Leaf, Chinese Panda, Russian Ballerina, Stillwater Coins, and Palladium Bars. These palladium products offer diversification options for investors who want to expand beyond the more traditional choices of gold and silver.
AJPM also caters to platinum enthusiasts with items like the American Eagle, Canadian Maple Leaf, Australian Kangaroo, and various Platinum Bars. This selection ensures that clients have access to some of the most sought-after platinum products, giving them the flexibility to diversify their portfolios with high-quality platinum bullion.
2. Selling Precious Metals
AJPM doesn’t just assist clients in buying precious metals it also offers a straightforward process for those looking to sell their gold, platinum, and palladium items. This includes coins, bars, and select PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) and NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) graded coins. Selling precious metals back to AJPM allows clients to liquidate assets quickly, whether for investment purposes or to capitalize on favorable market conditions.
AJPM’s experience in precious metals trading ensures that customers receive fair market value for their items. The company’s transparent and customer-focused approach has made it a trusted choice for those looking to buy and sell precious metals, providing peace of mind in a competitive market.
3. Precious Metals IRAs
While AJPM does not directly offer precious metals IRA (Individual Retirement Account) services, it does provide support to customers who are interested in adding precious metals to their retirement portfolios. AJPM can guide clients on which products are IRA-eligible and help them understand the process of working with an IRA custodian, ensuring that they meet the necessary IRS guidelines for investing in precious metals. Although AJPM does not partner with any specific custodial service providers, its knowledgeable staff can offer recommendations and insights to assist customers who wish to incorporate precious metals into their self-directed IRAs.
4. Loans and Storage Services
AJPM also provides loan services on gold, platinum, and palladium coins and bars, giving customers additional financial flexibility. These loans are a convenient option for those who need liquidity but don’t want to sell their precious metals holdings. AJPM’s loan structure requires a minimum loan period of 60 days, allowing clients to use their assets as collateral while retaining ownership. This option is particularly beneficial for customers who anticipate needing funds temporarily and wish to retain their investment for future growth.
In terms of storage, AJPM does not offer in-house storage solutions or partnerships with storage facilities, so customers interested in secure storage for their precious metals are advised to consider third-party vaults. This allows AJPM to focus on its core services, including providing competitive pricing and an extensive selection of high-quality precious metals.
With a comprehensive range of products and services, AJPM offers clients a well-rounded experience in buying, selling, and financing precious metals.
Its knowledgeable team and transparent approach have helped AJPM build a reputation as a trusted provider, ensuring that clients feel informed and supported in all their precious metals transactions. Whether you are an investor, a collector, or simply interested in diversifying your portfolio, AJPM provides the tools and resources to meet a wide range of precious metals needs.
Customer’s Review: AJPM
The website Site Jabbar holds a 3.2-star rating based on feedback from 19 customer reviews of AJPM.
#1. In the event that you have ever visited this store, you are aware of how busy they are. It comes as a surprise to me that they take the time to complete such a tiny order. I have purchased twelve ounces of gold from these individuals over the course of the past year. Despite the fact that I only buy one bar per month, I have always felt that I have been handled with respect and that I have been satisfied with the products that I have purchased.
#2. Coins weighing one ounce are typically purchased in quantities ranging from one to three at a time. The fact that I only purchase a modest quantity leads me to believe that their attitude is quite impolite. If they are so busy that they are unable to manage minor orders, then it is likely that they should not be processing them at all rather than giving a client experience that is of no value to them.
My orders were shipped by the United States Postal Service (USPS) without a signature confirmation, and the boxes were left outside.
In addition, they raise their processing cost whenever there is a major drop in the price of gold. Because I was unaware of any other locations where I might get bullion, I was forced to do business with them; otherwise, I would not have purchased from them. I haven’t purchased AJPM in years because I now have other options available to me. In all likelihood, they are not bothered by people who live in Oregon and who can visit their store in person and talk without an accent.
#3. I’ve been attending AJPM for a good number of years now. I would agree with a few of the other people in this room that they went through a difficult period of time not too long ago. On the other hand, they are coming back stronger than ever before. They always have products available for purchase, and whenever I place an order, you can count on them to deliver my items on time.
There are no hidden fees, secret charges, or anything else that is concealed. Always honest and forthright, they never hide anything from you. Always and forever, AJPM will have my business.
#4. During the process of placing my transaction, the AJPM Guy kept the price fixed and requested that I provide the check number. He requested that I contact him back with the check number due to the fact that I did not have the checkbook on me at the time. When I attempted to get in touch with them, the line went to voice mail, and I left a message with my check number. I had anticipated receiving a phone call from their customer service department to verify that they had obtained my check number.
This would allow me to send in my check. However, I did not receive a call from it. After a period of three weeks, one of their guys called me and immediately began threatening me without having any prior knowledge of the situation. I have no idea how I could possibly put my faith in a business or establishment that is unable to even call me to verify the number of my check. I have never seen worse customer service.
How to Purchase Precious Metals from AJPM
Buying gold, silver, or platinum from AJPM is simple and accessible, offering a range of options to enhance your investment portfolio. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make a successful purchase:
- Place an Order by Phone
- To initiate your purchase, call AJPM’s toll-free number at 1-800-690-4995. During the call, specify the type and quantity of precious metals (such as coins or bars) you wish to buy. An advantage of purchasing from AJPM is that there’s no sales tax in Oregon, which could be beneficial for your investment.
- Provide Necessary Contact Information
- After selecting your items, provide your full name, address, and phone number to finalize the order. AJPM will confirm your order by locking in the current price and providing a confirmation number. Be sure to record this confirmation number carefully, as you’ll need to include it on the memo line of your check and on the envelope when you send your payment.
- Send Payment Within 24 Hours
- After receiving the confirmation number, promptly mail your payment. Payments can be made via personal check, cashier’s check, or money order, which must be postmarked within 24 hours of placing your order. For orders over $15,000, wire transfers are accepted, providing a secure option for larger purchases. Keep in mind that AJPM does not accept credit cards, debit cards, or checks by phone, or fax.
- Address Your Payment Correctly
- Ensure your check is made payable to the specific AJPM shop handling your order. This detail is essential, as each AJPM location processes payments separately. If you’re uncertain about the correct address, you can call the shop to confirm mailing instructions. Sending the payment to the correct address helps avoid delays in processing your order.
- Await Delivery of Your Order
- Once your payment is processed, AJPM will handle the shipment of your precious metals. Orders typically take up to 26 business days for delivery. To check the status of your order, you can reach out via email after the 15th business day. Each AJPM shop has its own dedicated email for order inquiries, so use the appropriate email address for the location where you placed your order.
Legal and Financial Considerations
Are There Any AJPM Lawsuits?
No.
There aren’t any lawsuits related to Affordable Jewelry and Precious Metals.
Affordable Jewelry and Precious Metals (AJPM), based in Portland, Oregon, has built a solid reputation over more than 30 years in the precious metals industry.
Known for its integrity and commitment to quality, AJPM is accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and operates multiple storefront locations, offering clients access to a diverse selection of gold, silver, and platinum products.
While AJPM is a highly reputable business, there are a few limitations worth considering.
Unlike some modern dealers, AJPM lacks an e-commerce platform, which means customers must call to place an order rather than complete transactions online. Additionally, the website’s design is somewhat dated, which may impact ease of navigation. However, despite these minor drawbacks, AJPM remains a trustworthy, recognized presence in the precious metals market, emphasizing transparency, customer service, and product quality.
Tax and IRA Regulations
Investing in precious metals through AJPM requires an understanding of tax implications and IRA regulations to make informed decisions. Here are a few key points to consider:
- Sales Tax Considerations
While Oregon does not impose a sales tax, buyers purchasing from AJPM who are located outside Oregon may still be subject to taxes depending on their state’s regulations. The taxability of precious metals can vary by location and the type of metals being purchased, so it’s beneficial to research or consult local regulations if you reside outside Oregon. - Consulting a Tax Professional
It’s always advisable to consult a tax professional before making large precious metals purchases. They can provide clarity on any tax obligations related to your transaction, ensuring you understand potential liabilities and can plan accordingly. - Investing in Precious Metals for an IRA
For those looking to add precious metals to their retirement portfolio, it’s crucial to follow specific guidelines set by the IRS. Precious metals such as certain gold, silver, and platinum coins and bars can be included in a self-directed IRA, provided they meet purity and authenticity standards. - Working with an IRA Custodian
As a bullion dealer, AJPM does not operate as an IRA custodian. Instead, investors must work with an approved IRA custodian to manage the acquisition, storage, and sale of precious metals held within an IRA account. The custodian will handle compliance and storage requirements, ensuring that your investment remains in line with IRA rules.
By understanding these aspects of tax and IRA regulations, investors can confidently make precious metals purchases with AJPM, benefiting from its industry expertise and trustworthy business practices. Whether you’re expanding an investment portfolio or planning for retirement, AJPM provides a secure, reputable option in the precious metals market.
Conclusion
In summary, AJPM stands out as a reputable choice for precious metal investments, providing a range of services and a solid track record, even though it lacks an online purchasing option. While online reviews may be limited, AJPM’s decades of experience and BBB accreditation underscore its reliability in the industry.
As with any investment, it’s essential to compare AJPM’s offerings with your personal investment goals and requirements. If you’re located near one of their storefronts and appreciate their in-person service model, AJPM could be an excellent choice. However, conducting thorough research and ensuring their approach aligns with your needs will help you make an informed decision.
