A simple checklist for the shop counter: rate, purity, hallmark, weight, stones, making charges, the bill and the buy-back policy.
Buying gold jewellery is often an emotional moment, especially for weddings and festivals. A short checklist helps you enjoy the moment without paying more than you should. Keep this page open on your phone at the counter.
1. Know today's rate before you go
Check the 22K and 24K rate for your city on this site in the morning. If the shop's board shows a much higher number, ask why.
2. Decide the carat
22K is the usual choice for traditional jewellery; 18K is common for diamond pieces. Make sure the price is worked out at the right carat. See 24K vs 22K vs 18K.
3. Look for the hallmark and HUID
Every piece should show the BIS mark, the purity grade (such as 22K916) and a 6-character HUID. Check the HUID on the BIS Care app. See our hallmark guide.
4. Watch the weighing
Ask to see the item placed on the scale. Note the gross weight with stones and the net weight of gold.
5. Separate the stones
Stones, beads, enamel and threads should not be charged at the gold rate. Ask for the stone weight and how stones are priced.
6. Ask for the making charge and wastage in writing
Get the percentage or per-gram amount before the item is billed. Compare it with at least one other shop for the same design. Read making charges and wastage explained.
7. Check how GST is added
GST is usually 3% on gold plus making charges. Use the calculator on your city page to check the shop's total. See GST on gold.
8. Ask about buy-back and exchange
Ask what the shop will pay if you return or exchange the item later: the rate, any deductions, and whether it differs for cash versus exchange. Get it in writing if possible.
9. Get a proper bill
The bill should list for each item: description, purity, HUID, gross weight, net weight, rate per gram, making charge, stone charge, GST and the shop's GSTIN. Keep it safely: you need it to sell, exchange or claim insurance.
10. Pay in a traceable way
For large purchases, paying by card, UPI or bank transfer leaves a record. For purchases above ₹2 lakh, shops must ask for your PAN (or a Form 60 declaration if you don't have one), whatever way you pay. Separately, the law does not allow a seller to accept ₹2 lakh or more in cash for one purchase.
Bonus tips
- Avoid buying in a rush on the busiest festival days if you can; you'll have more time to check everything.
- Photograph the item with its HUID visible for your records.
- Think about insurance for expensive jewellery kept at home.
Things to watch out for
- A higher rate than the board. Check the rate per gram printed on your bill against the rate on the shop's board that day.
- Stones weighed as gold. If the bill shows only one weight for a stone-studded piece, ask for gross and net weight separately.
- "0% making charges". Check whether the gold rate or wastage is higher to make up for it.
- Vague wastage. "VA" or "wastage" should be a clear percentage on the bill.
- No bill, or a bill without GST. A cheaper price without a bill leaves you with no proof of purity, weight or ownership.
None of these mean a shop is dishonest. They are simply the places where small differences add up. Asking politely is normal and good shops expect it.
This guide is general information for buyers. Rules and tax rates can change; check with your jeweller, bank or a qualified adviser before big decisions.