Making charge is not the gold rate
The gold rate estimates the underlying metal value for a stated purity and weight. A making charge pays for manufacturing, design, finishing and related retail costs. It should be shown separately so buyers can compare like with like.
Common quotation structures
A shop may quote workmanship as a fixed amount, an amount per gram or tola, or a percentage of metal value. Different structures can produce different totals even when the headline rate looks identical.
- Confirm whether the charge is fixed, weight-based or percentage-based
- Ask whether wastage is separate or already included
- Separate stone value and stone weight
- Request the final payable total in writing
- Ask how making charges are treated on resale or exchange
Compare the complete quote
Compare net gold weight, purity, metal rate, making charge, other additions and the final total—not only one percentage. A lower making charge can still accompany a higher metal rate or a less favourable buyback policy.