Empire Pawn is owned and operated by Mitch Kushner, who is a third generation jeweler. Mr. Kushner’s family has been in the business of buying jewelry since 1930, and after 60 years, they established the loan business in 1990, and the company is now the oldest established pawn broker and jewelry buyer on Long Island.GIA educated gemologists The appraisal staff of Empire Pawn is educated by the GIA (Gemological Institute of America), ensuring professional expertise in the valuation of our customers’ fine gems and precious metals. We are also members of the National Pawnbrokers Association.Our mission is to provide our customers with an experience that is far above what they would normally expect from a "pawn shop." We do not deal in the business of items such as electronics, musical instruments, autos or other general consumer products. Nor do we sell jewelry on premises. We are experts in buying jewelry and focus on fine gems and precious metals, ensuring that your piece will be accurately appraised, and that you’ll receive the best cash prices on sales or loans in our area.We know that there are times when the need for instant cash comes up, especially in today’s hard economy. Selling or taking a loan out on your jewelry offers our customers the opportunity to meet their immediate needs that other financial institutions are not delivering. We understand that your item may have sentimental value in addition to its cash value, that’s why we always will provide you with professional, courteous and discreet service, deal fairly and honestly, and make your transaction with Empire a positive one. Over the years, we have built a reputation based on this mission, and believe that is why we enjoy the referrals and repeat business of hundreds of who have come to rely on us, as our loyal customers confirm.