10 Things to Check Before Buying Gold Jewellery

Gold jewellery has been a symbol of wealth, beauty, and tradition for centuries. Whether you’re buying it for an investment, a special occasion, or simply as an accessory, it’s crucial to ensure that you’re getting authentic and high-quality gold. With numerous options available in the market, it’s easy to get confused or even fall for substandard products.

To help you make an informed decision, here are 10 essential things to check before buying gold jewellery:

1. Purity of Gold (Karat Value)

Gold purity is measured in karats (K), with 24K being the purest form. However, pure gold is too soft for jewellery, so it is often mixed with other metals. The common karat values are:

• 24K – 99.9% pure gold (too soft for jewellery)
• 22K – 91.6% gold (best for traditional jewellery)
• 18K – 75% gold (durable, ideal for everyday wear)
• 14K & 10K – More alloy, less gold (more durable but less valuable)

Always check the karat marking on the jewellery before purchasing.

2. Hallmark Certification

A hallmark is an official mark stamped on gold jewellery to certify its purity. In India, the BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) Hallmark ensures authenticity. The BIS hallmark consists of:

• The BIS logo
• Purity in karats (e.g., 22K, 18K)
• Jeweller’s identification mark
• Assaying centre’s mark
  Checking for a BIS hallmark ensures that you are buying genuine gold.

3. Weight of the Jewellery

Gold jewellery is priced based on weight. Some designs may have stones or additional elements that increase the weight, but the gold content remains the same. Always ask for the net gold weight (excluding stones and other embellishments) before making a purchase.

4. Making Charges

Making charges are the labour cost involved in crafting the jewellery. This cost varies based on the complexity of the design and the jeweller’s pricing policy. Some jewellers charge a fixed percentage (6-14%), while others have a flat making charge. Always compare making charges at different stores before finalizing your purchase.

5. Buy-Back & Exchange Policy

A reliable jeweller should offer a buy-back or exchange policy in case you want to sell or upgrade your jewellery in the future. Always check the terms and conditions, as some jewellers deduct making charges and depreciation before accepting a return.

6. Invoice & Documentation

A detailed bill is a must when purchasing gold jewellery. It should mention:

• Purity of gold (in karats)
• Weight of the jewellery
• Making charges
• GST applied
• Stone weight (if any)
  An invoice serves as proof of purchase and is crucial for resale, exchange, or insurance purposes.

7. Current Gold Price

Gold prices fluctuate daily based on market trends. Before making a purchase, check the current gold rate per gram. You can find this on jewellers’ websites, financial news portals, or government sources. Comparing prices across multiple jewellers ensures you get the best deal.

8. Stone-Studded Jewellery

If you’re buying jewellery with diamonds or gemstones, ask the jeweller about:

• The stone’s carat weight
• Whether the stones are real or synthetic
• The method used to fix the stones (glue or prongs)
  Some jewellers charge gold prices for the entire jewellery piece, including the stone weight. Always request a breakdown of gold and stone pricing.

9. Jeweller’s Reputation & Reviews

Buying gold is a significant investment, so always purchase from a trusted and reputed jeweller. Check for:

• Customer reviews and ratings
• Certifications and credentials
• Years of experience in the business
• Word-of-mouth recommendations
  Well-established jewellers are less likely to engage in fraudulent practices.

10. Gold Jewellery Trends & Design Preferences

While gold is timeless, jewellery styles and preferences change over time. Check whether you want:

• Traditional or contemporary designs
• Lightweight or heavy jewellery
• Plain gold or stone-studded jewellery
• Custom or ready-made designs
  Make sure the piece you choose suits your personal style and occasion.

Buying gold jewellery is a blend of art, tradition, and investment. To ensure that you get the best value for your money, always check for purity, hallmarks, weight, making charges, and current gold prices before making a purchase. A little research and careful selection can help you make a smart investment while enjoying the beauty of gold jewellery for years to come.