When buying gold jewellery, most people focus on gold price per gram, weight, and design—but the final bill often surprises buyers because of making charges. Understanding how gold jewellery making charges work can help you avoid overpaying and make smarter purchase decisions, whether you’re shopping offline or from an online diamond jewellery store.
This guide breaks down what making charges are, how they’re calculated, and what buyers should check before making a purchase.
What Are Gold Jewellery Making Charges?
Gold jewellery making charges are the labor costs involved in converting raw gold into a finished piece of jewellery. These charges cover:
- Designing the jewellery
- Casting or handcrafting
- Stone setting (if applicable)
- Polishing and finishing
Making charges are separate from the gold price, GST, and gemstone costs. They vary widely depending on craftsmanship and complexity.
How Are Making Charges Calculated?
Jewellers usually calculate making charges in two common ways:
1. Per Gram Basis
- Charged as a fixed amount per gram (e.g., ₹500–₹1,200 per gram)
- Transparent and easier to compare
- Common for machine-made jewellery
Example:
If a necklace weighs 20 grams and making charges are ₹800/gram → Total making charge = ₹16,000
2. Percentage of Gold Value
- Charged as a percentage (e.g., 8%–25%) of gold price
- Usually applied to intricate or handcrafted jewellery
- Can increase significantly when gold prices rise
Tip: Always ask which method is being used before finalizing your purchase.
Why Making Charges Differ So Much
Several factors influence making charges:
Design Complexity
Simple chains or bangles have lower charges, while bridal or antique designs cost more.
Handcrafted vs Machine-Made
- Handcrafted jewellery → Higher making charges
- Machine-made jewellery → Lower and standardized costs
Type of Jewellery
Rings, earrings, and minimalist pieces usually have lower charges than necklaces or heavy bangles.
Brand & Retail Format
Premium showrooms and luxury brands often charge more due to design exclusivity and service experience.
Making Charges in Online vs Offline Jewellery Stores
Buying from an online diamond jewellery store has changed how making charges are presented:
Online Stores
- Often offer lower or zero making charges on selected designs
- Transparent price breakup displayed upfront
- Easier comparison across designs
Offline Stores
- Higher making charges due to showroom and staffing costs
- Room for negotiation (especially on making charges)
- Better for custom designs and fittings
Smart buyers compare both before deciding.
Importance of BIS Hallmark in Gold Jewellery
Making charges should never be considered in isolation. Always verify gold purity, which is where BIS hallmark in gold becomes crucial.
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) hallmark certifies that the gold meets government-approved purity standards. A BIS-hallmarked jewellery piece typically includes:
- BIS logo
- Purity grade (22K, 18K, etc.)
- Assaying center mark
- Jeweller’s identification mark
Key Buyer Insight:
High making charges on non-hallmarked jewellery are a red flag. Always prioritize purity verification before evaluating price.
Are Making Charges Refundable on Exchange or Buyback?
Most jewellers do not refund making charges during resale or exchange. Typically:
- Gold value is calculated based on current market rate
- Making charges are deducted
- GST is non-refundable
Some brands offer lifetime exchange schemes, but even then, full recovery of making charges is rare.
How to Reduce Making Charges as a Buyer
Here are practical tips to avoid overpaying:
- Choose machine-made designs for daily wear
- Look for festive offers with discounted making charges
- Compare multiple stores (online + offline)
- Ask for per-gram making charges instead of percentage
- Avoid overly intricate designs unless necessary
Common Mistakes Buyers Make
- Focusing only on gold price, not total cost
- Ignoring making charge structure
- Buying non-hallmarked jewellery
- Not checking the bill breakup
Always insist on a detailed invoice showing gold rate, weight, making charges, GST, and hallmark details.
Final Thoughts
Gold jewellery making charges significantly impact the final price you pay. By understanding how these charges are calculated, comparing options across stores, and ensuring BIS hallmark in gold, buyers can make informed and value-driven decisions.
Whether purchasing a simple ring or investing in bridal jewellery from an online diamond jewellery store, transparency and awareness are your best tools to avoid unnecessary costs and shop confidently.
