The ancient trade of converting gold into various jewellery pieces sees individuals or the populace in the UAE as experts in such acts. Gold jewellery buyers regard the United Arab Emirates as one of the top choices due to its good and pure gold quality, excellent designs, and low prices. Consequently, it is always possible to find customers from various nations. However, the practice of purchasing UAE gold jewelry can, at times, be challenging, especially for first-time customers, a category to which many international clients may belong.
To ensure that your shopping experience is enhanced and that you do not jeopardise yourself by making costly mistakes, below are some common pitfalls that people encounter when buying gold in the UAE.
Not having knowledge of the prevailing gold price
Gold rates keep fluctuating because of the international market. One of the most unpleasant mistakes shoppers usually commit is neglecting the practice of comparing the gold rate with sellers' prices at the current time. This time around, it could result in spending above what is reasonable.
-
Tip: Whenever planning to go to a jewellery store, look at the gold rate in the preferred jewellers or the official site. Most of the time, the jewellers in the UAE mention current gold rates, so do not make a purchase without confirming them first.
Ignoring the Importance of Gold Purity
There is a different sort of gold that can be used, each made with varying purities.The average buyer is well acquainted with three basic types of gold which are 18K, 22K and 24K. The average consumer is led to believe that all gold is the same in quality and standard, only to later be disappointed to discover that they have bought something which is of a lower grade gold.
-
Tip: In case of purchasing gold ornaments, try to establish what the gold content of the ornament is and how, if at all, this would affect the appearance of the decoration as well as its price. In addition to this, it has an impact on the toughness of the decoration as well.
Failing to Consider Making Charges
Making charges are basically the cost of making the jewellery, and they can be hefty. Many consumers only concentrate on the gold price and therefore do not inquire about these additional charges which will be different based on the design and store.
-
Tip: Making charge/tancers should be discussed based on the design beforehand. Some stores may allow clients to haggle these charges especially in traditional settings like the Gold Souk.
Failing to Ask for a Certificate of Authenticity
After all, one of the most important things to possess after ordering/purchasing gold is the authenticity certificate. This document guarantees that the gold purity, that is stated in the certificate, is genuine and that the jewel is valuable. Some customers, however, forget to request this certificate which later creates a problem if such customers want to resell or exchange the gold jewellery.
-
Tip: Once you purchase a gold ornament, never walk out of the shop without its accompanying certificate. It is an assurance that the gold is of the desired quality.
Prices and Making Charges Not Compared
Because there are many jewellery retailers in the UAE, the prices and making charges differ widely from one retailer to the other. As a result, many consumers go to the first place they see without first looking for better bargains.
-
Tip: Make it a point to visit as many outlets as possible, especially in places such as the Gold Souk or Gold and Diamond Park.
The Decision is Rushed
A person should take time before deciding to buy gold jewellery since it is a valuable purchase. For whatever reason one is purchasing the item, it is not wise to buy on the first instance as it may not be the ideal choice. This traps one in a situation where they have to settle on something that does not entirely please them.
-
Tip: Ensure that enough time has been taken to properly view different jewellery pieces to check for quality and also query the price before proceeding to buy.
The Jewellery is Omitted from the View
In certain situations, clients concentrate on the weight and cost of the gold and in the process omit the actual jewellery from the focus. This often leads to overlooking defects, loosened clasps or defective designs that will be prohibitively costly later on.
-
Tip: Examine everyday pieces, sleep in the bed or even in the shower for the ring, to see how robust the piece is so time is not wasted and most importantly, scour the online market instead of purchasing several rings. Make sure the clasps and fittings are securely closed and the piece is sound.
Shop's Return and Exchange Policy
The failure to inquire about post-purchase return or exchange policies is another common blunder. Some places restrict easy return or exchange if there is a need or if you decide to change your mind over the item you have purchased.
-
Tip: It is advisable to discuss returns and exchanges with a jeweller before leaving the shop. This is much more important if the jewellery is a present for someone.
Over-exceeding Expenditure Plan
Gold jewellery is relatively costly, hence some people tend to get captivated when they encounter good designs and exceed their set budget. Exceeding the financial plan is never easy as it can lead to a lot of stress.
-
Tip: Make sure you have a detailed plan on how much money you are willing to spend before leaving the house to go shopping. Don't forget to consider the making charges and any other fees.
Not Inquiring About Discount Deals or Offers
Lots of shops around the UAE tend to have discount deals or offer promotional visits especially around festive days and during sales periods. Not inquiring about these deals could mean a potential loss as you never used your chance to gain more.
-
Tip: Feel free to inquire from their shop attendants about the discounts and promotions. One can get incredible deals off their products which makes the decision to purchase much better.
Not Personalised Design.
Some buyers do not ask for personal designs because they tend to go with the finished products which many American shops do not recommend. This can be a case of lost opportunity for those with a certain taste looking for something special.
-
Tip: If what you want cannot be found, ask if the jeweller can make it for you.
Mistakes to Avoid
Let's consider the assumption that all jewellery pieces can be perceived as a good investment. Many people invest in gold for various reasons. However, it is not guaranteed to be beneficial for investment at all times. Some jewellery pieces have excessive making costs or complicated designs which result in them being unproductive for resale.
-
Tip: When purchasing items for investment purposes, try to look for those which are plain and uncomplicated in terms of design. However, should you purchase jewellery for yourself, then some of these pieces should not be sold because of weak resale values even if they may well be worth it.
Final Thoughts
It is almost everyone’s wish to own amazing gold jewellery with intricate patterns and designs. However, that jewellery should not solely serve to make the owner feel beautiful. There are economic aspects of owning gold jewellery that should also be taken into account. That is why buying and shopping for UAE gold jewellery is indeed something that should be fun and entertaining, but it also comes with a set of rules and much focus. The prices of gold, quantity as well as quality of the gold jewellery, along with the price of the vendor, are critical to ensuring that you buy gold that is worth the price that it is being sold at.
It does not have to be only for that specific person and occasion, no matter what the purpose is someday, these tips will save regrets and leave you with beautiful pieces of jewellery that you will cherish forever. Enjoy your shopping!
