Top Gold Scams in Egypt — 10 Tips to Stay Safe

Common Gold Scam Types

1. Karat Fraud

Selling 18K as 21K — a difference of ~600 EGP/gram. Happens at unlicensed shops.

2. Fake Hallmarks

Counterfeit stamps on lower-karat or non-gold pieces. Fake hallmarks are blurry and inconsistent.

3. Rigged Scales

Scale reads less than actual — buyer pays more per gram than they should.

4. Mixed Metals

Copper or silver filler inside the piece to add weight.

5. Excessive Craftsmanship Fees

Charging 800 EGP/gram for simple pieces. No official cap exists.

10 Protection Tips

1. Buy from licensed shops — look for Assay Office permit


2. Get a detailed invoice


3. Inspect hallmark with a loupe


4. Bring your own scale to compare


5. Compare 3+ shops — suspiciously low prices = red flag


6. Don't buy from strangers on the street


7. Request acid test if suspicious


8. Keep the piece in your hands from selection to handoff


9. Negotiate craftsmanship fee, not gram price


10. Walk away if pressured