Rick Harrison (center) with his father, Richard, and his son, Corey. Today, the three run the Gold and Silver Pawn Shop, which is the subject of the History Channel series Pawn Stars. (Photo courtesy of the History Channel)

As the owner of the Gold and Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas, Nev., Rick Harrison depends on his ability to spot a fake. Whether he’s buying an antique firearm, a 200-year-old map, or a silver tea set, Harrison needs to know that he’s laying his money out for a genuine product.

During our recent phone interview, the star of the History Channel’s Pawn Stars was good enough to give us a glimpse of his world through his eyes and share a few tips on spotting fakes with two items that are favorites among forgers: silverware and Rolex watches. Read the full story

With another birthday coming up, I’ve been thinking about all of the cherished gifts I’ve received in the past. One that I treasure the most is a gift that was given to me from my mom, a year after my grandmother passed away. My grandmother used to collect silver spoons and she gave each of her grandchildren one to keep. At the time I didn’t realize how special this would be to me. My mom took the spoon to a jeweler and made it into a ring for me! It is my favorite piece of jewelry and I never leave the house without it! It is my good luck charm; my token of remembrance. It makes me feel more connected to my mom and my grandmother.