Akshay Tritiya: Confused About Authenticity Of Online Gold Purchases? Here’s What To Check

Every year, on the occasion of Akshay Tritya, thousands of Indians look forward to buying gold, sometimes as a tradition and other times as an investment. This year could be no different, except that many may turn to online platforms instead of walking into a jewellery store, given how online purchases have become increasingly convenient in this age.

But while buying gold online may be more convenient, there is often one question at the back of every buyer’s mind: How do I know my gold (or any other expensive jewellery) is real?

It is a valid concern since gold or any diamond jewellery is expensive. Now more so than ever before. Recently, the price of gold in India touched the historic mark of Rs 1 lakh. If you are spending your hard-earned money, especially during a festive sale, you want to be sure you are not being taken for a ride.

How can you ensure the authenticity of your gold purchases? Let’s understand.

1) Check for BIS Hallmark: It’s Non-Negotiable

Whether it is a small gold coin or a pair of earrings, you should make sure the item you are purchasing is hallmarked by BIS (short for Bureau of Indian Standards). This hallmark is the only official assurance of the purity of gold in India.

It typically includes the ‘karat value’ (like 22K, 18k, or 24 k), the BIS logo, the jeweler’s unique ID, and a special six digit HUID number.

Some online sellers now display this hallmark directly on product images. If the website does not mention this clearly, or if there is no visible hallmark in the product image, you should ask the seller. If they can’t confirm, it is better to skip.

2) If Buying a Diamond, Check For This

Those who might be planning to buy diamond jewelry instead should look for certification from either the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the International Gemological Institute (IGI). Both of these certificates state the quality of the diamond, which typically includes - cut, clarity, colour, and carat.

Most prominent jewelers mention this detail upfront and share a copy of the certificate with the product. If you don’t see it online or have not received it with the delivery, that is a point of concern.

3) Hidden Costs You Should Be Aware Of!

The lure of online purchases often lies in the discounts they offer on deals or certain kinds of purchases. The same goes for jewelry purchases as well.

Online listings often come on your screen with flash sales and ‘free delivery’ options in large fonts. But in the case of jewelry, there may be some charges that do not show at the onset. You should properly check the bill to determine if there are any hidden costs skimmed into your bills such as:

• Insurance charges

• Shipping fees

• Return handling fee

Some of these are quietly added at checkout or written in fine print.

Always read the price breakdown before paying. Some stores charge a return handling fee, and others may deduct a portion of the value if you return the item after unsealing it.

Akshay Tritya is an auspicious festival for Indians, everyone's inbox would be full of offers - 20 per cent off, 30 per cent of, and so on. But many of these are not as generous as they sound.

Watch out for words like “Up to 50% Off.” Often, this only applies to very limited products, and the rest have much smaller discounts. Some offers also come with a “No Return” clause. Always read the full terms before jumping in.

4) Choose A Trusted Seller

When buying jewelry online, the first step of safety lies in choosing a well-known jeweler. Look for brands that have physical stores, clear return and refund policies, and good customer ratings.

Checking customer reviews on websites, a whole lot of them, is a good practice. Also, go through the FAQs and delivery information pages, genuine sellers usually explain their process in detail.

To Sum Up

Online purchase of jewelry, be it gold or diamond, is not risky only if you take the time to check the right things. Always ask for a BIS hallmark for gold and IGI or GIA certificates for diamonds. Read the delivery and return policy, check for extra charges, and never go by discounts alone.

Gold may be about tradition and sentiment, but your decision should be based on facts. That’s the best way to celebrate Akshay Tritiya, knowing that what you are buying is worth every rupee you spent.