what is difference between kdm gold and hallmark gold?
KDM stands for Cadmium-soldered gold which has 92% gold mixed with 8% cadmium to make ornaments. It became popular because it made jewellery making easier (better finish, lower melting point). However, cadmium is harmful to health (to workers making jewellery) and even causes skin issues for wearers. Because of this, BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) banned KDM jewellery.
On the other hand, hallmark is not an alloy but a purity certification given by BIS in India. It ensures the gold meets the purity standards, a hallmark stamp is a guarantee of gold purity. .Hallmarking is now mandatory in India, so buyers can trust they are getting genuine purity. Hallmark jewellery is safer, more transparent, and easier to resell.