You don't need to be an expert to buy well. You just need to ask the right questions — and notice how comfortably they're answered. A confident, transparent jeweller welcomes every one of these.
Here are the questions that quietly protect you, the answers you should hear, and what hesitation really means.
Gold is a commodity with a published daily rate. A straight answer naming a source (IBJA / the day's standard rate) is what you want. Cross-check at ibjarates.com before you pay. A vague or inflated rate is the easiest place to quietly overcharge.
Making can be a flat rate per gram or a percentage of gold value. Either is fine — but it must be stated and itemised. Machine-made work should not cost handcrafted rates. Ask, and ask why if it seems high.
Industry standard is roughly 5–8%. Anything above 10–12% deserves a clear explanation. Inflated wastage is a classic place to hide extra margin.
Every gold piece sold in India must carry a BIS hallmark and a 6-character HUID. Ask to see it and verify it live on the free BIS Care app. No HUID, no purchase.
For any significant diamond or coloured stone, ask for the lab certificate (GIA / IGI / GRS) and the report number — before you buy, not after. Check the number on the lab's own website. Treatments must be disclosed in writing.
Ask how they value the piece if you return it — do they pay current gold value, deduct making, what about the stones? A clear, written buyback policy is a sign of a confident jeweller. Vagueness here is a warning.
Gold value, stone value, making, wastage and GST (3% on gold, 5% on making) — each shown separately. A cash discount to skip the bill is never worth it: you lose your warranty, your buyback proof, and your consumer protection.
"Watch the answer, not just the words. A good jeweller relaxes when you ask these — it tells them you're serious and fair. The one who tenses, deflects, or makes you feel difficult for asking has just answered the most important question of all."Surabhi Agarwal
Frame it as learning, not suspicion: 'I'm trying to understand jewellery properly — could you walk me through the making charges?'
Ask for it in writing. 'Could you note that on the estimate?' turns a verbal promise into a real one.
Repeat the number back. Saying it aloud confirms you understood — and signals you're paying attention.
Send me a photo, a quote, or just your question. I reply personally — no pressure, no sales pitch.
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