Why Egyptians Love Gold
Gold in Egypt isn't just jewelry — it's a savings vehicle. After the EGP devaluation, gold became the safe haven Egyptians trust more than banks. The price of 21K gold per gram has tripled since 2022.
Understanding Karats
| Karat | Purity | Use | Price/gram (EGP) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24K | 99.9% | Bars and coins — investment only | 4,000–5,200 |
| 21K | 87.5% | Most common in Egypt — wedding and jewelry | 3,500–4,500 |
| 18K | 75% | Gemstone settings — engagement rings | 3,000–3,800 |
Craftsmanship Fee (المصنعية)
The craftsmanship fee is charged on top of the gold gram price. Simple pieces: 80–200 EGP/gram. Complex pieces: 200–500 EGP/gram. Brand-name: 500–1,500+ EGP/gram.
Important: When you sell, you lose the craftsmanship fee — buyers pay raw gram price only.
Hallmarks (الدمغة)
Every gold piece in Egypt must carry the official government hallmark. It includes the karat number, manufacturer code, and government stamp. No hallmark = don't buy.
Where to Buy
- Goldsmith Quarters (الصاغة) — Every city has one. Best prices but needs negotiation.
- Brand stores (Lazurde, Damas, Azza Fahmy) — Higher prices, warranty, exclusive designs.
- Luulwa online — Transparent pricing for used gold, photos, and direct seller contact.
Buying Tips
- Always ask about craftsmanship fee before looking at pieces
- Get an invoice: karat, weight, craftsmanship, total price
- Compare 3+ shops — craftsmanship fees can vary by 200 EGP/gram
- Used gold saves significantly — you pay gram price without craftsmanship
Selling Tips
- Get quotes from 3+ shops before selling
- Online selling (Luulwa) gets better prices — you sell to consumers, not dealers
- Keep original invoice — builds buyer trust
- Clean the piece before selling — shiny gold sells faster
