Gold Jewellery Buying Guide: How to Buy Gold Jewellery in India (2026)
Have you been planning to buy jewellery recently? Making a jewellery purchase in India is no ordinary buying process. More than a simple upgrade to the collection, it is usually made on the occasion of marriage, birth, days of spiritual significance, and new beginnings.
However, in the glam of the luminous gold and the excitement of buying a jewellery piece in the moment, most people miss the key details of buying gold jewellery. That is why we have carefully prepared a gold jewellery buying guide and gold jewellery shopping guide on how to buy gold jewellery in India so that you don't make a hasty choice but an informed decision.
Understanding 18K, 22K and 24K Gold
The jewellery that you wear cannot be made of pure gold. Pure gold, or 24K gold, is too soft to be made into wearable jewellery. The one you generally wear is actually an alloy made of gold along with several other metals to increase its durability and malleability so that it can easily be carved into different shapes and designs.
So, what karat gold are you wearing? And what karat gold are gold bars and gold coins made of? What is the difference between 18K and 22K gold? Let's understand all these aspects with the help of the chart below. This gold purity guide will help you choose the right gold for every occasion, whether you are investing in 22K gold jewellery or buying jewellery for everyday wear.
Gold Purity Comparison Chart
| Feature | 24K Gold | 22K Gold | 18K Gold |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purity Level | 99.9% (24/24 parts pure) | 91.6% (22/24 parts pure) | 75.0% (18/24 parts pure) |
| Alloy Content | 0.1% traces | 8.4% copper/silver/zinc | 25.0% copper/silver/nickel |
| Durability | Soft and prone to scratches | Moderately Soft | Durable and Scratch-Resistant |
| Colour Profile | Deep, warm and rich yellow | Traditional plain gold jewellery | Softer yellow. Rose Gold, White Gold |
| Best Made into | Gold Coins, Gold Bars | Traditional Plain Jewellery | Diamond/gemstone jewellery. Everyday Rings |
| Hallmark Code | 999 | 916 | 750 |
Now you understand that the gold alloy in different types of jewellery varies, thus changing its colour, strength and wearability.
Everything You Should Know About BIS Hallmark
When you buy a jewellery piece, one of the biggest assurances of its purity is the BIS hallmarked gold certification. But what does that even mean? Is there really a body that tests all the jewellery pieces ever made and marks them? These are some of the questions that need to be answered. So, let's dive deep into it and understand all the tests that gold jewellery goes through after it's been made and before it is presented to us for purchase. This BIS Hallmark guide 2026 will help you understand the hallmarking process better.
A Deep Understanding of BIS Hallmark
Before April 2023, gold items were marked with five different symbols to certify that they have been checked and tested. However, later, all the certifications were standardised under three universal marks.
- One of them is the BIS hallmark, which is given by the Bureau of Indian Standards.
- The second one states the purity of the piece and indicates the karat number and parts per thousand percentage of gold. For example, in the purest commercially available gold, which is 99.9% gold, the number will show as 24K999.
- Lastly, an HUID code, or alphanumeric code, is mentioned to check the origins of the jewellery and trace where it came from. You can also type it into the BIS Care app, retrieve the information from the central database, and learn all about the jewellery, its making, and its testing.
To know about the piece, log into the BIS Care app, enter the six-character alphanumeric code stamped on the gold piece, and press Enter. It will show you all the information about it.
How Are Gold Prices Calculated?
Gold price in India includes several components apart from the gold metal itself. The question is who decides the price of the metal itself. The daily market rate of gold is universally set.
The daily gold prices in India are released by the governing body, known as IBJA – India Bullion and Jewellers Association. Once the daily price of gold as metal is set, it will determine the rate of gold in the jewellery. You can check today's gold, silver and platinum rates before you shop.
To calculate the final price of gold, the formula goes as follows. This gold jewellery price calculation helps you understand how the final amount is derived.
Gold Value = Weight (in grams) × Current 24K Rate per gram × Purity Multiplier.
But that is not all. Retail prices are also added to the final price of the jewellery, and that consists of gold making charges, GST and hallmarking fee.
Gold Making Charges Explained With Examples
Gold prices are fixed first internationally and then recognised by the Indian body. But making charges is where it varies from one gold jewellery piece to another.
It involves labour, craftsmanship, design and operational costs that it takes to convert a raw piece of gold into wearable jewellery.
You may wonder why jewellers charge making fees. The answer to that question lies in all the investment that they put into making it. It involves artisan labour and craftsmanship costs, machine and technology expenses, melting costs (also known as gold wastage), showroom overheads, and profit margins. This also gives you enough room for negotiations or getting discounts on making charges. The section below provides gold making charges explained with practical examples.
There are two methods by which gold charges can be calculated. Both are as follows:
Method 1: Percentage of Gold Value
In this way, the charge is calculated according to the price and quality of gold.
- Simple jewellery ranges between 8% and 12%.
- Detailed pieces or bangles range between 12% and 18%.
- Intricate, temple jewellery ranges between 18% and 25%.
For instance, assuming today's price of 24K gold is Rs 14,464 per gram.
22K Gold Chain (10 grams)
22K Gold Rate: Rs 14,464 × 0.916 = Rs 13,248/gram.
Raw Gold Value: 10g × Rs 13,248 = Rs 1,32,480
10% Making Charges on Raw Gold Price: 10% × Rs 1,32,480 = Rs 13,248
Final Price = Gold price + Making charges = Rs 1,32,480 + Rs 13,248 = Rs 1,45,728
It should be noted that GST will be added to this as well, and if any gemstones are attached to the piece, that will be calculated and added separately.
Method 2: Flat Charges Per Gram
In this method, the jeweller charges a fixed amount for every gram of gold regardless of the daily fluctuating prices.
22K Gold Chain (10 grams)
Assumed 24K Gold Rate: Rs. 14,464/gram
22K Gold Rate: Rs. 14,464 × 0.916 = Rs. 13,248/gram
Raw Gold Value: 10 g × Rs. 13,248 = Rs. 1,32,480
Making Charges (Usually Flat Rate per gram): Rs. 800 × 10 g = Rs. 8,000
Final Price = Gold Price + Making Charges = Rs. 1,32,480 + Rs. 8,000 = Rs. 1,40,480
Similarly, tax will be added to this as well, and any gemstone attachments will be calculated and added separately.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Buying Gold Jewellery
Buying gold jewellery is unlike purchasing anything else. It is an investment. Over time, through decades, as prices increase, investing the right amount can create a significant difference in the value of the jewellery or gold bought. It should not only be the sentimental returns that one must rely on, but always buy it from a long-term perspective. Here are some tips for buying gold jewellery, including the best time to buy gold jewellery, to get maximum returns and avoid any mishap while buying gold jewellery.
- Not checking the three-mark BIS hallmark could prove to be one of the biggest mistakes. Look for the three certification marks – the triangle, the purity grade, as well as the HUID code. If need be, use the BIS Care app to check the jewellery you are investing in.
- Paying gold rates on making charges and stones attached to the piece can also get you to spend more money. Make sure that the jeweller calculates gross weight and net weight. Net weight includes gold charges and making charges. Gross weight will have stone charges in it, calculated separately.
- Not negotiating making charges can also cost you more. Also, look for all the components they are calculating in those charges. Do not forget to check if wastage is already included in the fee.
- Buying the wrong karat for daily use is another mistake people generally make. Daily use gold jewellery must be sturdier and thus will have gold from 18K or lower, resistant to friction and scratches — our LiteStyle everyday gold jewellery range is built for exactly this.
- Accepting an unitemised bill is a mistake as well. On the contrary, an itemised bill will have gold charges, gemstone charges, making charges and GST or taxes mentioned separately, so you have a clear understanding of each part of your jewellery.
- Ignoring buyback policies and exchange terms can lead to loss. Over time, when you try to get back the value of what you invest in gold initially, paperwork and policies must be clear so you can have a seamless experience.
- Not knowing the calculation method. Always ask the jeweller if they use a flat gold rate or calculate based on the day's gold prices.
- Lastly, choose a verified jeweller. Look for the credentials and certifications of the jewellers you are planning to buy the gold jewellery from. They must be reliable and trustworthy.
Why PNG Jewellers Is a Trusted Destination for Gold Jewellery?
PNG Jewellers has been a trusted name for the last 190+ years. It started as a small shop and has grown into a brand run by six generations. They have not only earned a name in premium craftsmanship but also met customer expectations decade after decade.
They have earned this trustworthiness by working with integrity and sticking to strict adherence to purity and hallmarking. All the jewellery has not only been tested, certified and marked, but as a customer, you can also conduct XRF purity testing before making the purchase.
Their expertise lies in offering a creative range of jewellery pieces across all metals and elements, from classic gold jewellery to modern diamond eternity bands. They also offer customisation so you can wear the piece that truly reflects you.
Their itemised bills clearly list all charges, along with a clear exchange and buyback policy, leaving no room for confusion or gaps in communication when you intend to buy back or exchange the piece in future.
No wonder, crores of people have been buying jewellery from PNG Jewellers over generations, and they have become their go-to destination for jewels. Visit PNG Jewellers to find your perfect gold jewellery.
Buy gold jewellery online by visiting the PNG Jewellers gold jewellery collection or visit your nearest PNG Jewellers store and explore a wide range of gold, diamond, platinum and other jewellery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is BIS Hallmarked gold?
BIS Hallmarked gold is gold certified by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), ensuring its purity and authenticity.
Which gold purity is best for jewellery?
22K is ideal for traditional gold jewellery, while 18K is preferred for diamond and contemporary jewellery due to its added strength.
How are making charges calculated?
Making charges are usually calculated as a percentage of the gold value or as a fixed rate per gram.
How can I check gold purity?
Check the BIS hallmark, which includes the BIS logo, purity in karat/fineness, and the Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID) number.
Is 22K better than 18K gold?
It depends on your needs. 22K is purer and ideal for traditional jewellery, while 18K is more durable and better suited for gemstone and diamond jewellery, such as our everyday gold rings range.
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