What should I look for when buying gold jewelry as an investment?

✅ 1. Purity (Karat)

• 24K = 99.9% pure gold (soft, not ideal for jewelry).

• 22K = 91.6% gold — best for investment-grade jewelry.

• 18K or lower = Less gold, more alloy — less ideal for resale value.

🔍 Always check for BIS Hallmark in India — it certifies gold purity.

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💸 2. Making Charges

• Jewelers add 8% to 25% as making charges.

• For investment, look for simple designs with low making charges — more value retained during resale.

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📉 3. Buy-Back Policy

• Ask the jeweler about buy-back or exchange policy:

• At what rate will they buy it back?

• Will they deduct making charges or wastage?

• Good jewelers offer transparent and fixed buy-back terms.

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📄 4. Invoice and Certification

• Always insist on a bill/invoice — proof of ownership.

• Ask for purity certificate or BIS hallmarking details.

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⚖️ 5. Weight and Wastage

• Ensure accurate weighing.

• Understand “wastage” — often hidden in pricing.

• Go for minimalistic designs to reduce wastage loss.

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📊 6. Market Rate Comparison

• Compare with live gold prices on that day.

• Ensure jeweler is quoting close to the market rate (for 22K/24K).

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🔄 7. Resale Liquidity

• Choose plain gold jewelry (like chains, bangles, coins) for better resale than studded or designer pieces.

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🚫 Avoid:

• Stones or enamel work if your goal is investment — they reduce resale value.

• Non-hallmarked jewelry or heavy designer pieces with high making charges.