NPA This Week in Pawn
'Lab-Grown' diamond turns out to be natural

Diamonds.net
A client of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) wrongly submitted a natural diamond as a lab-grown stone, the organization said.

Shutdown highlighted need for bank-backed small-dollar loans
American Banker
A tremendous amount of attention rightfully was given to the financial hardships furloughed employees faced during the monthlong partial shutdown of the federal government. 
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Gemological Institute of America
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GIA sheds light on De Beers' synthetics

Diamonds.net
Two white lab-grown diamonds from De Beers' Lightbox brand have G color and VS clarity, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) said after examining the stones.

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau moves to roll back payday lending rule
CNN
The federal financial watchdog Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is moving to roll back parts of a rule meant to protect Americans from predatory payday lenders.
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Wexler Insurance Agency, Inc.
Wexler Insurance Agency, Inc.
Pawn shop staff chase axe-wielding robber through Grimsby town centre

GrimsbyLive
Police and staff at Cash Generator in Grimsby have been praised for apprehending an axemen who smashed the front window and threatened staff in daylight robbery.

Lab-grown diamonds poised for growth
Diamonds.net
The lab-grown-diamond sector is enjoying a spike in awareness among US consumers and is starting to make headway in the engagement-ring market, according to a report by the International Grown Diamond Association (IGDA).
Electronic Transfer, Inc.
Family behind Miami gold refinery raided coffers to fund 'lavish lifestyle,' lawsuit claims
Miami Herald
When Republic Metals declared bankruptcy last year, the Opa-locka-based precious metals refinery--one of the largest players in an industry under investigation by federal prosecutors for dealing in "blood gold"--blamed an accounting error.
Max Pawn offers 5 tips for purchasing secondhand items

Vegas News
If you're looking to save money, buying a Valentine's gift at a pawn shop or other resale shop can be a good option.