Abstract: A system for appraising an item physically received from a seller includes a transaction point computer. The item has at least one constituent selected from the group consisting of a precious stone, a semi-precious stone, a precious metal, and a semi-precious metal. Appraising the item includes determining a composition of the item using an evaluating device and associating an exchange value with the item using the evaluating device and market data obtained over a network. The system includes a networking device and shipping carton dispenser configured to provide a shipping carton for shipping the item to a depository. The system further includes a shipping label dispenser for providing a fold-under label to be adhered to the shipping carton, and a slot for dispensing a transaction card to the seller. The shipping carton is shipped to the depository after the transaction card is loaded with the exchange value.

Abstract: A computer implemented method for appraising and selling an item includes the step of using a kiosk to physically receive the item from a seller. The method comprises the step of appraising the item by determining a composition of the item using an evaluating device and associating an exchange value with the item using market data obtained over a network. A global positioning device determines a location of the kiosk. The method includes the step of using a legal database to ascertain a set of rules governing the sale of the item in the location. The set of rules comprise a holding requirement dictating that the item be retained for a fixed number of days before it is sold to a buyer. The method also includes the step of selling the item to the buyer at the kiosk in compliance with the set of rules.