24 Karat Gold: How to Spot 999 vs. 995 Purity Before You Buy

Gold has long been a symbol of wealth and purity, especially when it comes to 24-karat gold. However, if you’re in the market to purchase 24K gold, it’s essential to check whether it’s of 999 fineness or 995 fineness. While both represent high purity, the distinction between them can make a difference in terms of value, durability, and suitability for certain purposes.

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In this blog, we’ll guide you through what these numbers mean and why you should always verify the gold’s fineness before buying.

What Do 999 and 995 Fineness Mean?  

The terms 999 and 995 represent the purity levels of 24-karat gold.

999 Fineness Gold:

• This means the gold is 99.9% pure, making it the highest grade of gold available.
• It contains minimal impurities, usually about 0.1%.
• Typically used for investment purposes like gold bars and coins due to its unmatched purity.

995 Fineness Gold:

• This indicates the gold is 99.5% pure, with 0.5% impurities.
• It is slightly less pure than 999 gold but is more durable due to the presence of trace metals.
• Commonly used for jewelry and decorative purposes where durability is critical.

Why the Difference in Fineness Matters ? 

• Price:

• 999 gold is more expensive than 995 gold due to its higher purity. Always compare prices while factoring in the fineness to ensure fair value.

• Purpose:

• If you’re buying gold for investment, go for 999 gold as it retains higher value over time.

• For jewelry, 995 gold may be a better choice because it’s less prone to damage from everyday wear.

• Certification:

• Look for certifications like the BIS hallmark in India, which guarantees the purity and quality of the gold.

 The end product of a raw diamond cut, fashioned, and polished for practical use is a Loose Diamond. These diamonds are available for purchase and are ready to be set into any piece of jewelry that you desire.

How to Check Gold Fineness Before Buying ?  

1. Look for Hallmarking:

           o In India, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) hallmark is the most reliable indicator of gold purity.

           o Check for the purity stamp—999 or 995—on the gold item.

2. Ask for a Purity Test:

           o Reputable jewellers provide purity testing using advanced techniques.

           o You can request a test to ensure you’re getting what you pay for.

3. Purchase from Trusted Sellers:

           o Always buy gold from reliable jewellers or authorized dealers to avoid counterfeit products.

   4. Verify Using a Gold Analyser:

           o  Advanced gadgets like XRF analysers can confirm the fineness of gold on the spot.

Conclusion  

When buying 24-karat gold, understanding the difference between 999 fineness and 995 fineness ensures that you make an informed decision. Always verify the purity through certifications, trusted sellers, and purity tests to avoid discrepancies. Whether you’re investing in gold or buying it for personal use, this small step can go a long way in ensuring the best value for your money.

So, the next time you buy gold, remember to ask: “Is it 999 or 995 fineness?”