I generally agree with sending it to a refinery like Aragold. But before you do check around to some more jewelry stores in your area. I found one near me that pays 85% of melt. That obviously isn't as high as Aragold's 98%, but you still need to do a little math.
If you are just sending in a small amount of gold, like one ring, the cost of shipping, including insurance and delivery confirmation may cost you more than the 18% difference in melt value.
For example, lets say you have a 3 gram 10k ring. At today's rate that is $56.55. At 98% you'd get $55.42. At 85% you'd get $48.07. So if shipping cost more than $7 you'd have been better off at the local jeweler. There is also the "cost" of waiting for it to get there and a check to be sent to you compared to getting the cash right now. Also, if prices drop some between when you send it in and they actually receive it you lose out there too.
It all depends on exactly what you have, what the actual shipping rates are, and your tolerance for waiting for it to be processed.
