KDM Gold to Hallmark Gold – What You Must Know

Many people still own old gold jewellery made using KDM (Cadmium) technology and often ask whether it can be converted into hallmarked gold. This article explains the reality in a clear and transparent way.

What is KDM Gold?

KDM gold jewellery was made using cadmium-based solder to join different parts of the ornament. Earlier, this method was popular because it allowed easy joining without affecting the overall appearance of the jewellery.

However, cadmium is a toxic metal, and due to health and safety concerns, the Government of India banned KDM jewellery in 2016.

What is Hallmark Gold?

Hallmark gold jewellery is certified by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
It confirms that the jewellery meets the declared purity standards and uses cadmium-free solder.

Hallmarked jewellery carries:

• BIS logo
• Purity mark (916 / 750 etc.)
• Jeweller’s identification mark
• Year of hallmarking

Can KDM Gold Be Converted to Hallmark Gold?

KDM gold cannot be directly converted into hallmarked gold.

There is no legal or technical method to add a BIS hallmark to existing KDM jewellery without processing it.

What Is the Correct and Legal Process?

If you want hallmarked jewellery from old KDM gold, the only proper method is:

• The jewellery must be fully melted
• The gold is refined to the required purity
• New jewellery is made using hallmark-safe solder
• The new ornament is sent to a BIS Assaying & Hallmarking Centre
• Only then can it receive a BIS Hallmark

Hallmarking applies only to newly manufactured jewellery.

Common Misunderstandings

• KDM jewellery cannot be re-stamped as hallmarked without melting
• No chemical treatment or polish can make KDM jewellery hallmarked
• Hallmark is not given for loose gold or old ornaments

Any claim suggesting otherwise is misleading.

What Are Your Options If You Own KDM Jewellery?

If you have KDM jewellery today, you can:

• Sell it as old gold (valuation is based on purity, not hallmark)
• Exchange it for new hallmarked jewellery
• Remake it if it has emotional value

Our Transparent Approach

We believe customers deserve clear information without confusion.
If you own old KDM jewellery and want to understand its real value or available options, professional guidance helps you take the right decision without loss.

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Final Note

There is no shortcut from KDM to Hallmark.
The only legitimate path is melt → refine → remake → hallmark.