Introduction
Many people ask the same question before buying their next ornament: “Should I travel to Coimbatore or Chennai because the making charges are lower there?” The doubt feels natural when you want purity, a fair rate, and a safe resale experience. As a Gem Expert based in Kerala, I have compared gold purity in Kerala vs Tamil Nadu to help you avoid financial loss and choose the right place with confidence. This guide explains purity preferences, alloy color differences, making-charge traps, and the exact questions you must ask before finalizing your purchase.
Gold Purity in Kerala vs Tamil Nadu: How Buyers Compare It
Purity drives the mindset of gold buyers in both states, although the reasoning changes as you move across the border. In Kerala, the central focus remains on 916. Families treat gold as a long-term security asset, which keeps plain chains and bangles at the top of the list. Since resale is the priority, you expect a clean exchange and clarity on purity without debate.
Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu offers a different journey. The state carries a strong tradition of temple jewelry, especially in regions such as Nagercoil and Vadasery. These designs often hold large frames and “Kempu” stones. Due to this structure, the purity can shift between 22k, 20k, and 18k. The lower purity is not a compromise but a requirement for the frame’s strength.
Since many buyers visit Tamil Nadu for lower making charges, the purity check becomes essential. If you select a stone-studded piece assuming it is 22k, but the base metal is 18k, you risk paying a premium price for lower gold content. The difference becomes a painful shock years later when you exchange the ornament in Kerala and face deductions.
The best way to protect yourself is to check the HUID and hallmark. For deeper clarity on these matters, read my guide on Gold Karat Levels Explained.
Gold Color Differences in Kerala and Tamil Nadu and What They Mean for You
The color of gold reveals the alloy composition before you even look at the hallmark. Kerala ornaments usually show a deep yellow tone, a familiar alloy ratio that generations here have trusted.
As you move into Tamil Nadu’s traditional jewelry, you often notice a reddish tint. This comes from a copper-rich alloy used to strengthen the frame in temple designs. Although the red shade looks different, it does not indicate impurity. However, the challenge appears when you return to Kerala. Many village shops hesitate when they see this red tint because they assume “Red equals Fake.”
To avoid confusion during resale, always keep your original bill and verify the HUID. You can learn more about how alloys work in my article on Understanding BIS Hallmark.
Kerala vs Tamil Nadu Gold Making Charges and the Real Math
Making charges (VA=value addition charges or waste charges) attract buyers from Kerala to Tamil Nadu more than anything else. Chennai, especially T. Nagar, offers aggressive VA rates to draw shoppers. But here is where you need to use logic and common sense.
Kerala follows a stable structure with smoother resale. If you buy in Chennai to save money on VA (value addition charges), but your Kerala jeweller identifies it as “outside gold” and deducts 4% during exchange, have you really saved money?
The math is simple: If you save ₹4,000 on making charges in Chennai but lose ₹6,000 during exchange in Kerala, you have made a loss. Always ask if your Kerala jeweller will buy the piece at the full day’s rate before you travel.
Safe Gold Buying Checklist for Kerala and Tamil Nadu Shoppers
Before you enter a shop in either state, follow this simple checklist:
- Check the HUID: Ensure the code on the jewel matches the bill. You can verify this on the Official BIS App.
- Ask about Resale: “Will you buy this back at the day’s rate in your Kerala branch?”
- Net Weight Check: Ask for the pure gold weight after removing stones and lac (or Lacquer / Laakh in some contexts). The term Lac in gold jewellery refers to a material used to fill or stabilize the ornament, and it is a non-gold substance that you should not pay the gold price for.
Final Thoughts on Kerala vs Tamil Nadu Gold Buying
Whether you buy in Kochi or Chennai, your focus on purity, clarity, and resale rules keeps you safe. Don’t pay for the showroom’s Air Conditioning; pay for the gold. If you are unsure about a purchase, you can verify the details using the Gold Buying Checklist on this site.
If you are also interested in colored stones, read my guide on Kempu Ruby: Tamil Nadu vs Kerala.
FAQ
Is gold cheaper in Tamil Nadu than in Kerala?
The base gold rate stays the same in both states. The only difference comes from Making Charges (VA).
Does Tamil Nadu use lower purity gold?
Many traditional temple styles use 18k or 20k for strength, although plain ornaments follow 22k. Always check the stamp.
Is reddish gold impure?
No. The tone appears because of higher copper content in traditional designs, not impurity.
Author Bio
P.J. Joseph, also known as Saju Elizamma, Gemstone & Gold Consultant serving Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka.
