Gold Jewellery Glossary: 50+ Key Terms for Nagpur Shoppers
Buying gold jewellery in Nagpur can feel exciting—but also confusing. Walk into a jewellery store in Sitabuldi or Dharampeth and you’ll hear terms like 22K, BIS Hallmark, Kundan, making charges, antique finish, and more. If you’re not familiar with these words, it’s easy to feel unsure about what you’re buying.
Ever heard someone say “22K means 22% gold”? That’s actually wrong. Many buyers misunderstand common jewellery terms, which can lead to confusion when comparing prices or checking purity.
That’s why we at Akshar Jewellers created this Gold Jewellery Glossary for Nagpur shoppers. It explains more than 50 commonly used gold jewellery terms in simple language. Whether you’re buying bridal jewellery, a daily-wear chain, or a festive necklace, understanding these terms will help you make smarter decisions.
Let’s start with the glossary.
A
Alloy
Gold jewellery is rarely pure gold. Metals like copper or silver are mixed with gold to increase strength. These mixtures are called alloys. For example, many 22K bangles sold in Nagpur use copper alloy to improve durability.
Antique Finish
An antique finish gives jewellery a dark, vintage look. It is popular for temple jewellery and bridal sets. Many brides in Nagpur choose antique-finish necklaces for traditional Maharashtrian wedding outfits.
B
BIS Hallmark
The BIS Hallmark certifies gold purity under the Bureau of Indian Standards. It confirms that your jewellery meets official purity standards. Always check BIS hallmarking when buying gold jewellery in Nagpur.
Bullion
Bullion refers to pure gold in bar or coin form used for investment. Unlike jewellery, bullion does not include making charges.
Bangle
A circular bracelet worn on the wrist. Bangles are essential in Indian weddings and festivals. In Nagpur markets like Sitabuldi, bridal bangles are often purchased in pairs or full sets.
C
Carat (Karat)
Carat measures gold purity. Pure gold is 24K, while 22K contains about 91.6% gold. Most traditional jewellery in Nagpur is made from 22K gold.
Casting
Casting is the process of pouring molten gold into a mould to create jewellery shapes. Many modern jewellery designs use casting technology for precision.
Chain
A chain is a series of connected links worn around the neck or wrist. Lightweight gold chains are popular for daily wear in Nagpur.
CZ (Cubic Zirconia)
Cubic Zirconia is a synthetic gemstone that resembles diamonds. It’s commonly used in affordable fashion jewellery.
D
Daily Wear Jewellery
Jewellery designed for everyday use. It is typically lightweight, durable, and comfortable. Chains, small pendants, and studs are common daily wear choices.
Design Stamp
Some jewellery pieces include design or brand stamps that identify the manufacturer or jewellery line.
E
Engraving
Engraving means carving letters or designs onto jewellery surfaces. Many couples in Nagpur engrave wedding dates or initials inside rings.
Electroplating
A finishing technique where a thin metal layer is applied over jewellery to improve appearance or durability.
F
Filigree
Filigree is delicate jewellery work created by twisting thin gold wires into intricate patterns. It is admired for its craftsmanship.
Finish
Finish refers to the final texture or appearance of jewellery—polished, matte, antique, or satin.
G
Gold Rate
The daily market price of gold per gram. Jewellery prices in Nagpur depend heavily on the gold rate on the day of purchase.
Gold Coin
A small gold piece used for investment or gifting during festivals like Dhanteras.
H
Hallmark
A hallmark is an official stamp confirming purity and certification of gold jewellery. BIS hallmarking is mandatory in India for most gold items.
Handcrafted Jewellery
Jewellery made manually by skilled artisans rather than machines. Handcrafted pieces often feature unique designs.
I
Imitation Jewellery
Jewellery made without real gold. It’s used for fashion or temporary occasions but has no intrinsic gold value.
Italian Finish
A smooth and high-polish finish style inspired by Italian jewellery designs.
J
Jadau
A traditional jewellery technique where stones are embedded into gold without adhesives. Jadau jewellery is commonly used in bridal sets.
K
Karat (K)
Karat indicates gold purity. 24K is pure gold, while 22K and 18K are commonly used in jewellery. In Nagpur, 22K jewellery remains the most popular choice for weddings.
Kundan
Kundan jewellery uses pure gold foil to set gemstones. It is very popular among Nagpur brides and often seen in wedding jewellery sets.
L
Locket
A small pendant worn on a chain that may open to hold photos or keepsakes.
Lightweight Jewellery
Jewellery designed with less gold weight to make it affordable and comfortable for daily use.
M
Making Charges
The labour cost charged by jewellers to craft a jewellery piece. Making charges vary depending on design complexity.
Matte Finish
A non-shiny surface finish that gives jewellery a soft, elegant appearance.
N
Necklace
A decorative jewellery piece worn around the neck. Necklaces can range from lightweight chains to elaborate bridal sets.
Nickel Free
Jewellery made without nickel to reduce skin allergies.
O
Ornament
A general term for decorative jewellery items such as rings, bangles, and necklaces.
Oxidised Finish
A darkened finish that gives jewellery an antique appearance.
P
Pendant
A decorative piece that hangs from a chain. Pendants are popular gifts for birthdays and anniversaries.
Polish
The final finishing process that gives jewellery its shine.
Q
Quality Mark
A stamp or mark confirming jewellery quality and purity.
R
Rose Gold
Gold alloy mixed with copper to create a pinkish colour. Rose gold jewellery has become trendy in modern designs.
Ring Size
The measurement used to determine how well a ring fits a finger.
S
Solitaire
A jewellery design featuring a single gemstone, typically a diamond.
Stud Earrings
Small earrings that sit directly on the ear without hanging.
T
Temple Jewellery
Traditional jewellery inspired by temple architecture and deities. Often worn during weddings and classical dance performances.
Tola
An old measurement unit for gold. One tola equals approximately 11.66 grams.
U
Under-cut Setting
A stone setting technique where metal is shaped beneath the stone to hold it securely.
V
Vintage Jewellery
Jewellery designs inspired by styles from earlier decades.
W
Weight (Gram Weight)
Jewellery is usually priced based on gold weight in grams plus making charges.
X
XRF Testing
A modern method used by jewellers to test gold purity without damaging the jewellery.
Y
Yellow Gold
The natural colour of gold commonly used in traditional Indian jewellery.
Z
Zircon
A natural gemstone often used in jewellery as an alternative to diamonds.
Final Tips for Nagpur Gold Buyers
Understanding jewellery terms can make a big difference when buying gold. When you know what karat, hallmark, making charges, and finishes mean, you can confidently compare designs and prices.
Here are a few quick tips for Nagpur shoppers:
• Always check the BIS hallmark before buying gold.
• Compare making charges between different jewellery stores.
• Ask about gold weight and purity clearly before purchase.
• Choose designs that match your usage—daily wear or bridal jewellery.
At Parekh’s Akshar Jewellers, we believe informed customers make the best jewellery decisions. Whether you’re buying bridal jewellery, festive ornaments, or daily wear gold, understanding these terms helps you shop with confidence in Nagpur.
Next time you hear someone mention “22K gold,” “Kundan,” or “making charges,” you’ll know exactly what they mean.
Buying gold should never feel intimidating. With the right knowledge, it becomes empowering.
You may want to read:
- Ultimate Guide to Buying Gold Jewellery in Nagpur
- How to Check Gold Purity in Nagpur
- 12 Popular Types of Gold Jewellery in Nagpur Markets
- Gold Hallmarks Explained: What Nagpur Buyers Need to Know
- Top 20 FAQs Answered
- Gold Jewellery Maintenance Tips for Nagpur’s Climate
Together, these resources help you move from doubt to confidence.
