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Understanding gold purity
Gold purity refers to how much pure gold is present in a piece of jewellery compared to the other metals mixed with it, measured in karats. 24 karat gold is the purest form, containing almost entirely gold. Since pure gold is soft, it is often mixed with metals such as copper or silver for strength — 22 karat gold, for instance, contains 22 parts pure gold and 2 parts other metals.
Understanding purity directly affects both value and durability. If you are wondering how to check the purity of gold, always look for the Bureau of Indian Standards hallmark and karat markings. This ensures authenticity, fair pricing, and long-lasting value for your investment.
Different methods to test gold purity
Wondering if your gold is genuine? There are a few easy and reliable ways to find out:
- Acid test – A small drop of nitric acid is applied to gold. The way it reacts helps reveal the purity level.
- Electronic testers – These modern devices check gold purity by measuring its conductivity, giving quick and accurate results.
- Float test – A simple home method where you place gold in water. Real gold is dense and will sink immediately.
- Hallmarking – In India, the BIS hallmark is the most trusted way to check purity. It confirms that your gold meets certified standards.
These methods, especially hallmarking, ensure you know exactly what you are buying or pledging. So, the next time you want to be sure of your jewellery’s value, try one of these gold purity at home.
How to check gold jewellery purity before buying
Before buying gold jewellery, verify its purity to ensure you get what you pay for. Look for the BIS hallmark, which certifies that jewellery meets Indian gold standards. You can also request a karat meter test at the jeweller's, and check the gold's karat rating — 22K is the most commonly sold purity in India. Ask the jeweller for an authenticity certificate detailing the gold's weight and purity. This verification protects your investment and ensures long-term value.
What is the difference between 22k and 24k gold purity?
Understanding the difference between 22k and 24k gold helps in a proper gold purity check and clarifies how to check purity of gold before buying or investing.
| Feature | 24K gold | 22K gold |
| Purity level | 99.9% pure gold | 91.6% pure gold |
| Metal composition | Almost no other metals | Mixed with copper or silver |
| Durability | Very soft | Stronger and more durable |
| Best use | Coins and bars for investment | Jewellery for regular wear |
| Practicality | Not ideal for intricate designs | Suitable for detailed ornaments |
When learning how to check the purity of gold, always verify the hallmark certification to ensure an accurate gold purity check and fair pricing.
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How to maintain gold jewellery according to its purity
Maintaining gold jewellery properly depends on its purity level. Since 24 karat gold is softer, store it separately in a soft cloth pouch to prevent scratches. 22 karat gold, being more durable, is suitable for regular wear but still needs gentle care. Avoid exposing gold to harsh chemicals, perfumes, or moisture. Clean it occasionally with mild soap and warm water, then dry with a soft cloth. Regular purity checks through hallmark verification also help ensure lasting value.
How to test the purity of gold using a karat meter
A karat meter is a reliable tool for verifying gold purity:
- Accurate measurement: It measures gold's electrical conductivity, which changes with purity, helping determine karat precisely — 22K, 18K, or lower
- Non-destructive testing: Unlike acid tests, a karat meter does not harm your jewellery
- Quick results: The device gives instant readings, helping buyers and sellers make informed decisions on the spot
- Checks all gold types: From 9 carat to 24K gold, a karat meter provides reliable results every time
Please note, Bajaj Finance only offers a gold loan against 18-22 karat gold jewellery and ornaments, and gold coins up to 24 karat purity.
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Please note, Bajaj Finance only offers loan against 18-22 karat gold jewellery or ornaments, and gold coins up to 24 karat purity.
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Why gold purity matters when applying for a gold loan?
When applying for a gold loan, gold purity is a crucial factor. We assess your gold's purity to determine its assessed value, and in turn, your eligible loan amount. Higher purity gold, such as 18-22 for jewellery and ornaments, and up to 24 karat for gold coins, can help secure a larger loan, since purer gold carries more financial weight. Lower purity gold may result in a reduced loan amount.
Before you pledge your gold, know your options. Check your gold loan eligibility and choose the right amount and tenure.
Gold purity test for accurate gold loan valuation
For an accurate gold loan valuation, lenders perform a thorough gold purity test. The purity level directly influences the loan amount, as higher purity gold fetches a higher value per gram. This purity is evaluated using tools such as karat meters. Once the purity is confirmed, lenders use it to determine the gold loan value per gram. You can calculate potential loan amounts by using tools like the gold loan calculator by Bajaj Finance to get an estimate based on your gold’s purity.
Please note: We do not simply use today's headline rate. We use whichever is lower between the previous day's closing price or the 30-day average closing price published by IBJA or a SEBI-regulated commodity exchange. This protects you from a sudden price spike inflating things unrealistically and protects the lender from the opposite.
The maximum LTV eligible for a loan depends on the loan amount and cannot be more than the limits given. To know more, click here.
Quick tip: Ready to unlock the value of your gold? Apply for Bajaj Finance Gold Loan today.
Frequently asked questions
Gold Purity
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Testing Method
You can check gold purity at home using simple methods. One common technique is the float test—pure gold will sink in water due to its density. Another method is the acid test, where a drop of nitric acid is applied to see if the gold reacts. For more accuracy, you can use electronic gold testers available online or in stores.
The easiest way to check gold jewellery purity is by looking for the BIS hallmark, which certifies the purity of gold in India. The hallmark indicates the karat value, such as 22k or 18k. You can also request a jeweller to perform a karat meter test for a precise evaluation. Always ask for a purity certificate when purchasing gold jewellery.
999 purity gold is the purest form of gold, containing 99.9% gold with very minimal impurities. It is also known as 24k gold and is highly sought after for investment purposes such as gold bars and coins. Due to its softness, it’s not ideal for jewellery but is perfect for financial investments.
Gold hallmarking is essential for ensuring that the gold you purchase meets the required purity standards. The gold hallmark guarantees the authenticity and karat value of the gold, protecting buyers from counterfeit or impure gold. It provides assurance that the gold has been independently tested.
Gold purity directly impacts the loan amount you can receive. Lenders prefer higher purity gold, such as 22k or 24k, as it holds greater value. The purer the gold, the higher the gold loan you can secure. Lower purity gold results in a reduced loan amount because its market value is lower. Ensuring accurate purity testing is essential for maximising the loan amount.
Please note: We do not simply use today's headline rate. We use whichever is lower between the previous day's closing price or the 30-day average closing price published by IBJA or a SEBI-regulated commodity exchange. This protects you from a sudden price spike inflating things unrealistically and protects the lender from the opposite.
The maximum LTV eligible for a loan depends on the loan amount and cannot be more than the limits given. To know more, click here.
9 carat gold contains 37.5% pure gold and the rest other metals. This lower gold content makes it more affordable and durable but less valuable compared to higher karat gold like 22K or 24K.
Gold purity can be tested using acid tests, electronic or karat meters, hallmark verification, and simple float tests. These methods help you know the exact gold content, ensuring fair pricing and genuine quality.
9K gold has lower purity (37.5%) compared to 18K (75%) or 24K (99.9%). Lower karat gold is stronger and cheaper, while higher karats are softer, purer, and more valuable.
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Bajaj Finance Limited (BFL) has the sole and absolute discretion, without assigning any reason to accept or reject any application as per BFL policy. *