Gold jewelry is more than just a symbol of beauty—it's a symbol of trust, tradition, and value. In Dubai, a global hub for gold trading, the market is brimming with glittering options. But with so many choices, how can you be sure the piece you’re buying is truly authentic? Whether you're a tourist or a local, this guide will help you spot real gold with confidence—and of course, trusted names like Sana Jewellers can make your shopping experience even safer.
Why Authentic Gold Matters
Buying gold is an investment. Whether it's a delicate chain, a wedding set, or a gift for a loved one, you want to make sure your money is spent on something genuine. Inauthentic gold can lose value, tarnish over time, or even cause skin allergies. That’s why knowing how to check for purity and source your jewelry from a reputable seller is crucial.
1. Understand the Basics: What Is Pure Gold?
Gold purity is measured in karats (K). Here’s a quick breakdown:
- 24K gold is 99.9% pure – very soft and bright yellow in color.
- 22K gold contains 91.6% gold – ideal for fine jewelry.
- 18K gold is 75% gold – often used in western-style or modern designs.
- 14K and below – contains more alloy and is generally cheaper.
In Dubai, 22K and 24K are most commonly sold for traditional jewelry. Always know what karat value you're buying before you make a purchase.
2. Look for Hallmarks and Stamps
The easiest way to confirm authenticity is by checking for hallmarks. Dubai follows strict regulations and most authentic gold items are hallmarked by the Dubai Central Laboratories Department.
Here’s what to look for:
- Gold purity stamp (e.g., 916 for 22K, 750 for 18K)
- Jeweler’s trademark
- Assay or testing office stamp from Dubai Municipality
If these stamps are missing or unclear, you might want to think twice before buying.
3. Request a Purity Certificate
A genuine gold jeweler in Dubai—like Sana Jewellers—will always provide a certificate of authenticity or a purity certificate. This document includes:
- The karatage of the gold
- The net weight and gross weight
- The name of the seller
- The hallmark details
Don’t be shy to ask for this certificate. It’s your right as a customer.
4. Ask for an Electronic Gold Test
Many reliable jewelers in Dubai offer electronic gold testing, which is non-invasive and highly accurate. Using XRF (X-Ray Fluorescence) machines, they can scan the jewelry and instantly tell you its composition.
Trusted names like Sana Jewellers invest in this technology to give customers peace of mind before purchase. If a seller refuses to test the item, that’s a red flag.
5. Compare with the Daily Gold Rate
In Dubai, gold prices are regulated daily by the Dubai Gold & Jewellery Group and displayed openly in most shops. Before you buy:
- Check the current gold rate (per gram) online.
- Ask for a detailed invoice showing:
- Gold weight
- Gold rate
- Making charges (labor cost)
- VAT (currently 5% in the UAE)
Unrealistically low prices can be a warning sign of fake or gold-plated jewelry.
6. Do the Magnet Test at Home
While not 100% foolproof, this is a quick trick for small jewelry items:
- Gold is not magnetic, so if your piece is pulled by a magnet, it likely has mixed metals or is gold-plated.
It’s not a substitute for professional testing, but it can help you spot obvious fakes.
7. Buy from a Reputable Gold Jeweller
This point cannot be stressed enough. In a city like Dubai, there are hundreds of gold shops—but not all are equal.
Why choose Sana Jewellers?
- Decades of trust: Known for their exceptional quality and transparency.
- Certified purity: Every piece comes with verified documentation.
- Stunning variety: From bridal sets to daily wear, they offer something for everyone.
- Excellent customer service: Multilingual staff, gold experts, and competitive pricing.
Buying from a certified store like Sana Jewellers saves you the stress of verifying every detail.
8. Beware of Gold-Plated Jewelry
Some sellers may try to pass off gold-plated items as real gold. Gold-plated jewelry is made with a base metal (like copper or brass) coated with a thin layer of gold. It looks like gold—but doesn’t hold the same value.
Always confirm the item is solid gold, not just plated, unless that’s what you’re specifically buying.
9. Weight Matters
Gold is priced per gram, so weight plays a big role in cost. When buying a piece:
- Make sure it’s weighed in your presence.
- The scale must be calibrated and display weight clearly.
- Be wary of hidden weights in stones or heavy designs that reduce the gold content.
10. Review Before You Buy
Lastly, do your research. Check Google reviews, customer testimonials, and ratings of the store. Reputable jewelers like Sana Jewellers have a strong online presence and happy customers sharing their experiences.
Conclusion: Shine Bright with Confidence
Buying authentic gold jewelry in Dubai doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little knowledge and the right jeweller, you can walk away with a piece that sparkles—and stays valuable for years to come.
Whether you're investing in 22K bangles, shopping for your wedding set, or looking for a timeless necklace, Sana Jewellers ensures that every piece you choose is authentic, certified, and exquisitely crafted.
Ready to shop gold with confidence? Visit Sana Jewellers—where authenticity meets elegance.