What's the procedure when someone finds something valuable?

whatchuwant

Last night while walking the dog, I found what could be a very valuable stone (I don't want to say what kind). I'm going to bring it to a jeweler (hell, could be fake) to get more info on it.

I briefly looked on Craigslist Lost and Found section and here as well (hey, Brooklynian doesn't have a Lost and Found section, or am I looking in the wrong place?). Didn't see anyone who'd lost anything.

I guess my question is- if it is indeed real, should I call 311? The cops? It's not a large stone, but jewels hold significant sentimental value. I would be utterly heartbroken if I lost the rock in my engagement ring!

If it turns out it is real and the owner is never found- what's the legal deal as far as finders keepers?

pragmaticguy

311 has nothing to do with it. You can turn it in to the local precinct where they will hold it for 3 months. If no one claims it you get it back and it's yours. But...if you do this, tell them you want the name and address of the person who claimed it, otherwise someone in the precinct can "make love" to it if you get my drift. My advice....don't turn it in but look for notices in the local paper or posted around. There may be a reward for you and even if the loss is reported to the police they may not put them together if someone there doesn't know that you turned it in to begin with.