Difference Between Hallmarked Gold, KDM, and 916 Gold: Everything You Need to Know Before Buying

Are you someone who is new to the Indian gold market and confused about terms like ‘Hallmarked Gold, ‘KDM Gold, and ‘916 Gold?’

Firstly, don’t worry! All these words are just different terms related to the gold purity and standards, each representing a different aspect of quality, safety and authenticity. To know exactly how they differ from one another, read the blog till the very end so you can buy smart and avoid getting scammed.

Why Is Knowing Gold Types and Purity Essential for Buyers? Why Do Customers Often Get Confused?

Nowadays more and more people are getting scammed by fraudulent sellers making misleading purity claims and selling gold by using outdated practices like KDM gold. As the price of gold continues to increase with increasing demand, many buyers do not have even the basic knowledge required. Like the difference between 22 kt, 916 and hallmarked gold.

Many scamsters find it very easy to fool such customers, making them overpay or buy impure gold. Which is why this blog is here to provide you with basic knowledge so that you can make your next gold purchase without any worries of getting scammed.

The Role of BIS in Gold Certification

BIS stands for the Bureau of Indian Standards. It is the authorised body for certifying gold through hallmarking. Wondering what hallmarking is? Hallmarking basically ensures that the gold you are buying is genuine, tested and legally verified. Now, this is very crucial, as gold is an expensive investment. Especially when buying expensive items like bangles, wedding rings and mangalsutras, customers like having the surety that what they are buying is legitimate and real.

This is why BIS plays a very crucial role in the Indian money market.

What is Hallmarked Gold?Meaning and Significance

As mentioned above, hallmarked gold is basically gold that has been tested and certified by BIS. It proves that the gold content in jewellery matches the claimed caratage, whether it is 22 kt, 18 kt or 14 kt gold.

BIS Hallmark Components (As of 2023 Standard) include:

BIS logo
Purity in carat and fineness (e.g., 22K, 916)
Assay centre identification mark
Jeweller’s identification mark

Advantages of Hallmarked Gold

Assures authentic gold purity.
Accepted easily for resale and buyback.
Compliant with government regulations.
Greater consumer protection.

Disadvantages

Hallmarked gold may be slightly more expensive than normal gold due to certification.
Some older or local jewellers may not provide hallmarking to the customer.

What is KDM Gold?

Full Form of KDM Gold – Cadmium-Soldered Gold and Its Meaning

KDM is short for cadmium-soldered gold, where gold components are welded with a cadmium alloy. This process was a standard practice in Indian gold jewellery manufacturing until the early 2000s.

Dangers of Purchasing KDM Gold

Health Risks: Cadmium fumes become dangerous for artists and consumers.
Purity Issues: KDM gold is not tested or certified for general purity.
Ancient Practice: The BIS prohibited KDM use due to its toxic impacts.

Why You Should Not Use KDM Gold

Even if KDM jewellery is less expensive, it’s neither BIS-marked, nor is there any surety regarding its purity. Moreover, KDM has poor resale value as compared to hallmarked gold.

What is 916 Gold?

Meaning of 916 in Gold

The number “916” signifies 91.6% purity, or 22-karat gold, which is the standard for most gold jewellery in India.

Is 916 Gold the Same as 22K?

Yes. 22K gold = 916 purity. The term ‘916’ is often used interchangeably with ’22K’, especially by jewellers and manufacturers.

Is 916 Gold Always Hallmarked?

No. A gold item marked “916” only indicates its purity; it must also carry a BIS hallmark to be legally recognised as certified.

Choosing hallmarked 916 gold jewellery is a smart decision as this gives you the same purity of 22K but with the security and legal assurance of BIS certification.

Ensuring Gold Purity Before You Buy

Look for These BIS Hallmark Indicators:

BIS Logo
Purity Mark (e.g., 22K916, 18K750)
Assay Centre Code
Jeweller ID

Use Digital Tools

Download the BIS CARE app to:

Check the hallmark number on your jewellery.
Check the registered jeweller.
File complaints if necessary.

Comparison: Hallmarked Gold vs KDM Gold vs 916 Gold

Feature	Hallmarked Gold	KDM Gold	916 Gold
Definition	BIS-certified gold	Cadmium-soldered gold	Gold with 91.6% purity (22 Karat)
Purity Check	Yes (verified by BIS)	No official purity confirmation	Only indicates 22K purity
Soldering Material	Modern, safe alloys	Cadmium (toxic and banned)	Depends on process
Government Approved	Yes	No (banned by BIS)	Yes, if hallmarked
Market Value	High (trusted)	Low	Medium—depends on hallmark
Health Risks	None	Yes (cadmium exposure)	None

Conclusion: Make Informed Choices When Buying Gold

As a buyer of gold, you are completely right to be apprehensive and afraid, considering the increasing amount of scams happening out there. This is why we have provided you with this detailed guide on hallmarked gold, KDM and 916 gold.

In conclusion, hallmarked gold is the best option for both purity and peace of mind. Because once you have the general awareness and knowledge, there is no need to be scared. Whether you’re looking for a wedding gift or wanting to invest, choose certified, choose smart.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How is 916 gold different from hallmarked gold?

916 gold is 91.6% pure, or 22 kt gold, whereas hallmarked gold is said to have been tested and certified for the same purity by BIS.

2. Is KDM gold legal in India anymore?

No, BIS prohibited the application of cadmium (KDM) in gold jewellery because health issues were rising. Better and safer alternatives for the same have been discovered by contemporary jewellers.

3. Can I rely on hallmark-free gold?

Not completely. Without a BIS hallmark, there’s no official assurance that the gold is as pure as marketed.

4. Are 22K gold and 916 gold the same?

Yes, 22K is 91.6% pure gold; hence, it is referred to as 916 gold.

5. How do I verify if my gold is hallmarked?

Check for the BIS mark and the other hallmark symbols, or download the BIS Care app and scan and check the product.

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