Summary
“Zero Making Charge” offers in Kerala are mostly marketing gimmicks. Jewellers often adjust gold rates or add hidden charges to recover the difference. To protect yourself, compare the market rate, check purity, and calculate the final cost before purchase. Informed buyers never fall for zero-charge traps.
You see it everywhere in Kerala: “Zero Making Charge” on gold jewellery. It sounds like a dream deal. But is it really?
The Hidden Truth
Most jewellers in Kerala use this offer as a marketing trick. They often raise the gold rate per gram to quietly recover what they call “making charges.” Some add fixed wastage or processing fees that nullify the supposed savings.
So, what looks like a discount often ends up costing you more.
For example, if the market gold rate is ₹6,000 per gram for 22K, a shop may charge ₹6,200 per gram and still claim zero making charge. That small increase per gram adds up quickly on a heavy piece of jewellery.
How to Check If the Offer Is Genuine
To see through the illusion:
- Check the live market rate – You can verify it on trusted sites like India Bullion and Jewellers Association (IBJA) or on our guide Decoding Daily Gold Rate in Kerala.
- Compare gold purity – Ensure the shop’s rate matches the BIS-certified purity.
- Ask about hidden charges – Look for terms like “wastage” or “value addition.”
- Calculate the real price using this formula:
Final Price = (Gold Rate × Net Weight) + Wastage/Other Charges
Example
22K Necklace, 20 grams
- Gold rate: ₹6,000 per gram
- Shop claim: Zero making charge
- Added wastage: ₹3,000
Calculation: (6,000 × 20) + 3,000 = ₹1,23,000
Now compare with a 5% making charge but no wastage:
(6,000 × 20) + (6,000 × 20 × 0.05) = ₹1,26,000
You end up saving just ₹3,000—or sometimes nothing at all.
Questions to Ask Before You Buy
- Is the gold rate higher than the market price?
- Are there hidden fees or wastage?
- How much do I truly save?
FAQ
1. Why do jewellers in Kerala offer “Zero Making Charge”?
It’s mainly a marketing tactic. The actual cost is often recovered through higher gold rates or wastage fees.
2. Is it ever a genuine offer?
Rarely. Some shops may reduce making charges during promotions, but always verify the gold rate and purity.
3. How can I avoid being misled?
Use live gold rates, confirm BIS hallmarking, and calculate the total before buying.
4. Where can I check authentic gold rates?
Check IBJA’s official site or sajueliamma.com/daily-gold-rate-kerala for daily updates.
