In 2010, Houston Gold & Silver, a precious metals buyer formerly known as Houston Gold, purchased a one ounce gold coin from the Salvation Army for $3,000. The company then redonated the coin to the Salvation Army with a challenge for other Houston companies to join the effort by purchasing the same coin and redonating.

"We called it 'Pay It Forward,'" said Ron Jorgensen of Houston Gold & Silver. "We wanted to see how many times this single act of generosity could be multiplied - a donation that keeps donating, over and over again."

Once again in 2011, Houston Gold & Silver purchased the coin for $3,000 and donated the coin back, a gesture of giving that was not left unnoticed, as The Houston Chronicle featured the coin on its front page in the newspaper's Dec. 1, 2011 issue.

This year, a jewelry store paid it forward and purchased a coin for $5,000, an extremely generous act that greatly outweighs the values of a one ounce coin.

"2012 has been a tough year for many Houston families," Jorgensen said. "We encourage everyone to 'Pay It Forward.' Be creative and start something new on your own, then watch it grow."

Houston Gold & Silver is located at 19333 U.S. Highway 59 N., No. 100 in Humble, with a second location at 10218 Westheimer Road in Houston. For more information about its services, call 281-361-3377 or go online at www.houstongoldandsilver.com.

About Houston Gold & Silver

Formerly known as Houston Gold, Houston Gold & Silver is the top-rated gold buyer in Houston. The company is the only one in the area that is in the business of purchasing precious metals exclusively and provides the best price for gold and silver products. Its facilities and experience are unmatched anywhere. With state-of-the-art equipment and labs, clients can be assured that their items are accurately graded and appraised, and they can trust the company to purchase their items at no less than what they are worth.