Now, it has been daunting to buy gold jewellery for the first time. With the numerous variety available in the market, there are so many things to look for before you spend your money. Whether you are buying a gift for someone or it is for yourself, if you follow this guide, you will never go wrong.
Why Gold Jewellery Is a Smart Investment Always.
For hundreds of years Gold has been a sign of wealth, beauty and tradition for the people of Pakistan. It is embedded in the very DNA of our culture, from weddings to Eid celebrations. It is not just an accessory. It is the only investment for which you will always be getting full value.
Gold jewellery does not rust, tarnish and lose its shine so easily like other types of jewellery. Hence, families have been hoarding gold coins for generations. It lasts, when we buy gold jewellery.
Understanding Gold Purity: Karats Explained
So one of the basic things you need to understand is the purity of gold. Karats measure gold purity. Here is a simple breakdown:
24 Karat Gold is pure gold (the 99.9% version). In its purest form, but the weakest also. You wear it every day, it gets scratched. But as an investment, it is great.
22 Karat Gold is 91.6% pure. The most widely used type of jewellery in Pakistan. It is made for everyday use but at the same time of genuine value.
18 Karat Gold — This is the gold that 75% of what you see returns with 25% other metals added. The answer is better and cheaper. Most of these newer and lighter designs are all available in 18 karat.
14 Karat Gold is 58.5% pure. Most of this will be found in western style items. It is more durable but tougher to work with and rarer found in regular Pakistani markets.
Generally considered to be the norm for weddings and heavy traditional sets, 22 karat is the gold most widely available in Pakistan. Eighteen karat works great with everyday rings and simple chains.
How To Know, If The Gold Jewellery Is Real
The greatest fears buyers have is for their getting ripped off with some fake or low quality stuffs.name Below are some practical ways to verify authenticity prior to your purchase.
Search for Hallmarks – All authentic gold jewellery should bear a hallmark. That is the little stamp that shows the karat value and attests that the gold has been tested. *:In Pakistan, you should always ask the jeweller to show the stamp.
Use a Magnet — if gold is real, it will not be magnetic. If the piece will stick on a magnet, then it contains other metals in greater concentrations than the metals indicated.
Inquire About a Certificate – Reliable jewellers will provide certificates of authenticity or test reports for their pieces. Never hesitate to ask.
Buy from Reputable Jewellers – We always recommend you to buy from jewellers that have been established for many years, and come with great reviews. There are many famous jewellery markets in cities like Lahore, Karachi and Islamabad where the well-established shops have been functional for decades.
Understanding Gold Rates in Pakistan
Pakistani gold prices fluctuate daily in accordance with international market prices and the US dollar to Pakistani rupee ratio. Always check that day’s gold rate before going shopping.
Check daily through Sarafa Bazaar announcements or by reliable financial websites. A jeweller quotes you a price which should cover the market rate of gold at that time plus making charges.
Making charges refers to the labour charge which is added on top of the gold rate. These differ based on the jeweller and complexity of the design. Always inquire about the separation of making charges so that you can come to know how much amount/ portion is being charged for the gold and how much for workmanship?
Pakistani Shoppers Guide: How to Buy Gold Jewellery
A few tips to help you save money and buy smartly!
Never Buy Without Comparing – Always try to visit at least two or three shops before striking a deal. Jewellers differ in prices and quality. By comparing you get a clearer picture of what is fair.
Weigh Piece Yourself – Request the jeweller to weigh the piece in front of you with their shop scale. Compare then with the weight mentioned on billing. Both numbers should match exactly.
Negotiate with the Making Charges The making charges is negotiable but the gold rate itself remains steady. If you are purchasing multiple pieces or seizing some goods, feel free to ask for a discount.
Add a proper billing which mentions the karat, weight in grams, gold rate and making charges. You should hold this receipt in case some years later you want to sell or trade the piece.
Know the Resale Policy – Find out about resale from your jeweller, his exchange policy and buyback policy before shopping. A reputable jeweller will buy back gold pieces at the current market value, but will charge a small deduction.
Common Types of Gold Jewelry in Pakistan
Pakistan has a long history of gold tradition. We summarize the most common types which you will find in local markets.
Necklaces and Chokers will complete a bridal or any festive silhouette. The range of these ornaments covers a huge spectrum, from simple chains to heavier kundan sets.
Bangles and Kadas have been standard in Pakistani culture. Available in plain, engraved and stone-studded patterns to be worn in sets.
EarringsVarious kinds of earrings such as studs and also large jhumkas and chandbalis are offered in the market. And it is really a cost-effective way to get into gold jewellery.
For men and women, rings are popular. And while a lot of these jewelry pieces like engagement rings, wedding bands and everyday rings are the most common types of rings that you will get in any jewellery store there is so much more.
Bridal accessories worn on the forehead: Tikka and Maang Tikka They are largely manufactured in 22 karat gold studded with important gemstones.
Gold Jewellery Care Guide
If you know how to take care of this gold stuff, those items are going to last for tens of generations. Here is what you should do.
Do not scrape each piece and store it in a pocket or box of soft cloth. After, clean your gold jewellery from home with warm water and a little drop of non-irritating soap and a soft brush. Wash gently and dry wipe with a clean cloth. Never wear your jewelry when sprits, lotion or hairspray: with time the chemicals used in these products can dull the shine. Wearing gold rings and disdainful force work Avoid wearing your own brilliance before going into the singular swimming pool, wash, or crazy working out.
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Conclusion on purchasing gold jewellery in Pakistan
Gold jewellery does not have to be stressful. When you will be aware of the karats, how to validate the authenticity and price range basis you will buy as a confident buyer. Just as we have a wide array of talented craftsmen making beautiful jewellery at every price point, so it is that Pakistan has its own unique and colourful jewellery culture.
