The Making of a Kundan Necklace — Step by Step
Follow a Kundan necklace from raw gold to finished masterpiece through the hands of five different artisans.
In India, gold jewellery is far more than an accessory — it is a store of value, a family legacy, and a financial safety net. Understanding how jewellery value works helps you make smarter purchases.
Purity Matters Most
The value of gold jewellery is primarily determined by its purity and weight. 24K gold (99.9% pure) is the most valuable but too soft for most jewellery. 22K (91.6% pure) is the standard for Indian jewellery and strikes the best balance of purity and durability. 18K (75% pure) is used for jewellery that will take heavy wear.
Making Charges
Beyond the gold value, you pay making charges — the cost of the craftsmanship. These charges are not recoverable if you sell the piece later. For investment purposes, simpler designs with lower making charges make more financial sense. For heirloom pieces, making charges are worth paying for extraordinary craftsmanship.
Hallmarking
Only buy hallmarked jewellery. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) hallmark guarantees the purity of the gold and protects you from fraud.
