Gold prices have been hitting record highs lately, making many people wonder: Should I buy brand-new jewellery or exchange my old gold to save money? Let’s break it down with some practical advice.
Why Fresh Gold Jewellery Costs More
When you buy new jewellery, you’re paying not just for the gold but also for:
- Making charges (usually 8–20%, higher for designer pieces).
- GST at 3% on the final bill.
- Current market rate of gold, which has crossed ₹1,00,000 per 10 grams in 2025.
👉 This means fresh gold jewellery is a big-ticket purchase today.
The Case for Old-Gold Exchange
Jewellers in India widely allow you to exchange old gold jewellery for new designs. Here’s why it can make sense:
- Value of your old gold is adjusted against the new purchase at the current market rate.
- Only pay making charges + GST on the net difference, not on the entire piece.
- Best for redesigning if your old jewellery is outdated, broken, or you no longer wear it.
⚠️ Watch out for deductions: Some jewellers cut 1–2% for impurities, even on hallmarked jewellery. Always confirm their policy before exchanging.
What Experts Suggest
- If you already own old jewellery: Exchange is the smarter option. It reduces your cash outflow significantly since you’re leveraging gold you already paid for at a lower price years ago.
- If you don’t own old gold: Buying fresh jewellery makes sense, but try to pick classic designs with lower making charges (like bangles or chains).
- Long-term investors: Experts often recommend holding onto gold rather than exchanging it, since it’s also an asset. You can buy new jewellery separately and keep your old gold as pure investment.
Tips to Manage Costs Smartly
- Go for BIS-hallmarked gold only, whether new or exchanged.
- Negotiate making charges — many jewellers offer discounts during festive seasons.
- Ask for weight slips of your old jewellery before melting, to avoid disputes.
- Compare jewellers’ exchange policies — some offer 100% value, others deduct impurities.
Leave a Reply