Difference Between KDM, Hallmark, and BIS 916

Understanding the Difference Between Hallmark Gold ,KDM Gold, and BIS 916

Gold, as we all know, is a precious metal prized for its beauty and durability. It has long been a symbol of wealth and prosperity. When purchasing gold jewellery, it is crucial to understand the different types of gold available and their respective characteristics. A few common terms you may encounter are KDM gold, hallmark gold, and BIS 916. So what’s the difference between KDM and hallmark and BIS 916?

While all these terms refer to gold jewellery, they differ in their purity and certification. So be careful when you are purchasing each of them.

KDM Gold

KDM stands for Karat Driving Machine, a technique used to solder gold jewellery. In KDM gold, 92% pure gold is alloyed with 8% cadmium. This alloy is then melted and used to solder the pieces of jewellery together. KDM gold is known for its durability and strength, making it suitable for intricate designs. However, it is important to note that KDM gold is not hallmarked, meaning its purity is not officially certified.

Hallmark Gold

Hallmark gold is certified by a recognized authority, such as the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), to guarantee its purity. Hallmark gold jewellery bears a hallmark stamp, indicating its gold purity level. In India, hallmark gold is available in purities of 958 (23 karat), 916 (22 karat), 875 (21 karat), and 750 (18 karat). Hallmarked gold jewellery is generally considered more valuable due to its guaranteed purity.

What is the Difference Between KDM Gold and Hallmark Gold?

Purity:

KDM gold is typically 92% pure gold, while hallmark gold can be 958, 916, 875, or 750 pure gold.

Certification:

KDM gold is not hallmarked, while hallmark gold is certified by a recognized authority, such as the BIS.

Value:

Hallmark gold is generally considered more valuable due to its guaranteed purity.

Durability:

KDM gold is known for its durability and strength, making it suitable for intricate designs.

Price Difference between Hallmark and KDM gold

Due to its guaranteed purity, hallmark gold is generally more expensive than KDM gold. The price difference between the two types of gold can vary. It all depends on the gold’s purity and the design’s complexity.

The price difference between hallmark and KDM gold can be as much as 10%. For example, 22-karat hallmark gold jewellery can be 10% more expensive than 22-karat gold jewellery.

To illustrate the price difference, consider the following example:

22-karat hallmark gold: ₹3500 per gram

22-karat KDM gold: ₹3150 per gram

As you can see, 22-karat hallmark gold is approximately 11% more expensive than 22-karat KDM gold.

What is BIS 916?

BIS 916 is a hallmark mark used in India to certify that gold jewellery is 91.6% pure. This means that it contains 91.6 grams of pure gold per 100 grams of the alloy. BIS 916 is the most common hallmark mark for gold jewellery in India. It is recognized by the BIS, the government agency responsible for setting standards for goods and services in India.

Other Hallmark Marks

In India, there are four other hallmark marks that are commonly used for gold jewellery:

BIS 958: This hallmark mark indicates that the gold jewellery is 95.8% pure, which is the highest purity level available for gold jewellery in India.

BIS 875: This hallmark mark indicates that the gold jewellery is 87.5% pure.

BIS 750: This hallmark mark indicates that the gold jewellery is 75% pure.

BIS 585: This hallmark mark indicates that the gold jewellery is 58.5% pure.

BIS 916 is a widely recognized hallmark mark. It is a common choice for consumers who value quality and purity in their gold jewellery purchases.

Which One to Choose?

KDM Gold: A Durable Choice

KDM gold is a suitable option for those who prioritise durability and intricate designs. If you want jewellery with delicate details, go for KDM gold, as it has a strong and seamless finish, and it is well-suited for such pieces. Additionally, KDM gold's slightly lower purity may be a consideration for those on a tighter budget.

Hallmark Gold: Guaranteed Purity and Resale Value

For those who place a high value on guaranteed purity and resale value, hallmark gold is the recommended choice. Its certification by the BIS ensures that the purity of the gold is accurately represented. This certification enhances the resale value of hallmark gold jewellery, making it a more attractive investment option.

The purpose of purchase will also be decided which type of gold you should purchase. If the gold jewellery is primarily for personal use and durability is a priority, KDM gold can be a suitable choice. However, if the jewellery is intended for gifting or resale, hallmark gold's guaranteed purity and higher resale value make it a more prudent option.

Reputable Jeweller and Certificate of Authenticity

Regardless of whether you choose KDM or hallmark gold, it is crucial to purchase jewellery from a reputable jeweller. This is because they can provide a certificate of authenticity. This certificate serves as verification of the gold's purity and ensures that you are receiving the quality and value you are paying for.

Ultimately, the choice between KDM and hallmark gold depends on your individual preferences and priorities. Consider your budget, purpose of purchase, design preferences, and the importance of guaranteed purity and resale value when making your decision.