Dhanteras shoppers urged to verify jeweller charges before payment

The Dhanteras festival, celebrated on the new moon day in the Hindu month of Kartik, has long been considered an auspicious occasion for purchasing precious metals and valuables. However, jewellers frequently add various charges to gold and silver purchases that consumers may not fully understand or expect.

Financial advisors and consumer groups have identified several common charges that appear on jewellery bills during the festival season. These typically include making charges for labour costs, wastage fees, hallmarking certifications, GST levies, and occasionally packaging or delivery charges. Each of these can significantly increase the final cost beyond the spot price of the precious metal itself.

Consumers are being advised to request itemised bills that clearly break down the making charge, which is often the largest component after the metal cost itself. Wastage charges, which account for metal loss during the jewellery-making process, should be verified against industry standards, typically ranging from 5-15 percent depending on the complexity of the design.

Hallmarking charges, while mandatory for certifying purity, should be transparent and separately listed. Buyers should also confirm whether GST has been properly calculated and whether any additional service charges are justified. Industry experts recommend comparing quotes from multiple jewellers before making purchases, particularly for substantial transactions during festival season.

Consumers facing unclear billing practices are encouraged to seek clarification from jewellers or approach consumer protection authorities if they suspect unfair charges.