Gold Purity Chart: How To Check Hallmark, Carats And Purity In Gold Jewellery

Gold Purity Chart In India: Gold is one of the most precious metals in the world, which is frequently used in investments, making jewellery and coins. However, the quality of gold varies from one type to another. You must verify the purity of the gold you purchase, whether you plan to keep it for yourself or as an investment. Examining carats, colour variations and hallmarks might help achieve this. In this article, we have described how to use these techniques to determine the purity of gold.

What Is A Hallmark And How To Check It On The Gold?

A hallmark is a legal certification that confirms and guarantees the genuineness and purity of gold jewellery. A hallmark is a stamped mark on gold to ensure that the jewellery meets the necessary purity standards established by the government or approved organisations. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has the responsibility of gold hallmarking in India. Hallmarks help buyers to confirm the quality of gold and prevent fraud.

If you want to check the purity of gold before you buy, you must check the BIS-hallmarked gold jewellery piece includes the following.

1. BIS Logo: This Logo Confirms that the Bureau of Indian Standards has certified the jewellery.
2. Purity Mark (Carat & Fineness): Purity mark shows the purity of the gold, such as 22K (916), 18K (750), or 14K (585).
3. Jeweller’s Identification Mark: There is a special code mentioned that identifies the jeweller.
4. Assaying & Hallmarking Centre Mark: Demonstrates that the gold has undergone testing in a lab approved by the BIS.
5. Year of Hallmarking: There is a letter indicating the jewellery's certification year.

What Are Gold Carats And How Do We Measure It?

How to check gold carats (Image: Canva)

A gold carat (K or KT) is a unit used to measure the purity of gold. Aside from Hallmark, gold carats (K or KT) are also used to determine purity. It displays the percentage of pure gold in an alloy, with 24 carats (24K) being the purest version. Since pure gold is soft and unsuitable for jewellery, it is commonly mixed with other metals like silver, copper or zinc to boost durability.

Gold Carat (K) Purity Level Gold Percentage

1. 24k Gold is the purest but is too soft for jewellery, so it is mainly used in making coins rather than ornaments.
2.  22K gold is commonly used for ornaments as it offers a good balance between purity and durability.
3. 18K and 14K gold are used for diamond and designer jewellery.
4. To measure the carat of gold, jewellers use machines like the Karatmeter, which provides an accurate reading of gold purity.

How To Check Gold Purity By Its Colour?

Types of gold colours (Image: Canva)

1. Yellow Gold

Yellow gold is the classic and natural form of gold, distinguished by its rich, warm tone. Since 22K and 24K gold are so pure, they have the brightest yellow colour, while lower-carat gold may look a little duller when combined with other metals like copper or silver for strength.

2. White Gold

White gold has a smooth, silvery look that is created by combining pure gold with metals like palladium or silver. 18K white gold is particularly well-liked for engagement rings because of its durability and beauty. It has a bright white finish due to rhodium coating, which increases its lustre and keeps it from tarnishing.

3. Rose Gold

Rose gold has a lovely pinkish tint because copper is added. Its sophisticated and romantic appeal makes it a popular choice for jewellery. Because they provide the ideal ratio of durability to purity, 18K and 14K rose gold are made for daily wear.

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