Gold Buying, Sarafa Markets & Jewelry Guide for Manama
Gold City in Manama houses hundreds of retail jewelry boutiques under one roof, celebrated for craftsmanship. Bahrain is celebrated as the Pearl of the Gulf, pairing natural certified pearls with 21K yellow gold and tax-free bullion imports.
When buying gold jewelry in Manama, always distinguish between raw bullion value and finished jewelry cost. Finished jewelry carries additional craftsmanship making charges (typically 6.5%) and applicable local sales tax (VAT (10% on Retail, 0% on Investment Bullion)). Always demand an itemized digital receipt specifying the net gold weight, gross weight, karat hallmarking certification, and stone deduction.
Hallmarking & Purity Testing
Always verify the official karat stamp or laser hallmark on jewelry (e.g. 916 for 22K, 875 for 21K, 750 for 18K, 999 for 24K bars). Request an electronic density or XRF spectrometer test before purchasing high-value pieces.
Craftsmanship Making Charges
Standard casting jewelry carries lower making charges (6–8%), whereas elaborate antique, Kundan, polki, or meenakari bridal jewelry can range from 10% to 15%. Making charges are negotiable at major Sarafa bazaars.
Islamic Zakat Nisab on Gold
The classical Shariah Nisab threshold for gold is 7.5 Tolas (87.48 grams) of pure gold (approx. BHD 2,910 in Manama today). Holding wealth above this threshold for a full lunar year obligates 2.5% Zakat.