Gold is part of our lives both as an ornament and as a means of saving. We have compiled seven key points you should know before visiting a jeweller so that you can shop with confidence.
1. Check the fineness hallmark
Items such as jewellery and bracelets carry a hallmark showing their fineness (for example, 585 for 14 carat and 916 for 22 carat). If the hallmark is illegible or missing, ask the seller for an explanation.
2. Do not buy without an invoice
The invoice records the type, fineness and weight of the item and the price you paid. In the event of a dispute, the invoice is the first requirement for claiming your rights.
3. Watch the weighing with your own eyes
The item should be weighed in front of you on a calibrated scale, and its weight in grams should also be written on the invoice.
4. Ask about the pure gold value and the workmanship separately
The price of jewellery consists of the pure gold value and the workmanship charge. Asking about the two items separately makes it easier to compare prices at different shops.
5. Find out the exchange and buy-back conditions
Ask at the time of purchase which conditions will apply if you later want to exchange the item or sell it back.
6. Be cautious about prices far below the market
Prices clearly below the current market and promises of a “huge discount” may be a sign of a problem with the fineness or the weight.
7. Buy from a jeweller you trust
You can browse the jewellers and goldsmiths registered with our association in the Member Directory and check a business’s registration on the Trust Check page.
If you experience a problem, you can report it to our association via the Complaints Desk.
