Don't overpay for bridal jewellery. Here is exactly what you need to know about 22K vs 21K, making charges, and bargaining in Sarafa Bazaar.
The Bridal Tradition
In Pakistan, gold is more than just jewelry; it is a financial safety net for the bride. The standard for Pakistani bridal sets is 22 Karat gold, which strikes the perfect balance between purity and durability.
Understanding Making Charges
When buying a bridal set, you pay the daily rate of 22K gold plus "making charges" (mazdoori). These charges can range anywhere from 10% to 25% depending on the intricacy of the design. Always ask the jeweller to separate the gold weight cost from the making charges on the invoice.
The Weight of Stones
Never pay gold prices for glass or cubic zirconia. High-end jewellers weigh the stones separately and deduct their weight from the total gold weight. If a jeweller refuses to do this, walk away.