Gold Purity Chart in Africa | Understand Gold Karats & Value 2025
Gold Purity Chart in Africa, When investing in gold, especially across African markets, understanding gold purity is essential. Whether you’re buying gold bars, coins, or jewelry, knowing what the gold purity chart in Africa looks like will help you make informed decisions. In this article, we break down gold purity standards, how they’re measured, and what to look for when buying gold in Africa.
What Is Gold Purity?
Gold purity refers to the percentage of pure gold in a product. Since pure gold is soft and malleable, it’s often alloyed with other metals like silver or copper for strength and durability.
Gold purity is usually measured in:
- Karat (K): Out of 24 parts.
- Fineness: Parts per thousand (e.g., 999 means 99.9% pure gold).
Gold Purity Chart Used in Africa
Gold purity standards across Africa often follow international guidelines, but some regional practices vary depending on local mining, refining, and trade traditions. Gold Purity Chart
The standard gold purity chart commonly used across African gold markets:
| Purity (Karat) | Gold Content (%) | Fineness | Common Use in Africa |
| 24K | 99.9% | 999 | Investment bars, bullion |
| 22K | 91.6% | 916 | Jewelry, coins |
| 21K | 87.5% | 875 | Jewelry (North & West Africa) |
| 18K | 75.0% | 750 | Jewelry |
| 14K | 58.5% | 585 | Affordable ornaments |
| 10K | 41.7% | 417 | Costume jewelry |
Gold Purity in Different African Regions
- West Africa (Ghana, Nigeria, Mali)
West Africa is rich in gold production. 22K and 21K are commonly used for jewelry. Gold bars for export are usually refined to 24K (999 fineness) in compliance with international standards. Gold Purity Chart
- East Africa (Tanzania, Uganda, Kenya)
These countries are emerging gold markets. Investment-grade gold is typically 24K, while local jewelry ranges between 18K and 22K.
- Southern Africa (South Africa, Zimbabwe)
South Africa has a long history of gold production. 24K gold bars and coins are popular for investors. Jewelry typically ranges from 18K to 22K.
How to Check Gold Purity in Africa
To ensure you’re getting genuine gold:
- Look for hallmarks or certification stamps (e.g., 999, 916).
- Use electronic gold testers or acid test kits.
- Buy from certified dealers or government-licensed refineries.
Why Gold Purity Matters When Buying Gold
Understanding gold purity helps you:
- Get fair market value.
- Avoid counterfeit or under-purified gold.
- Resell your gold more easily, especially internationally.
If you’re planning to buy gold bars in Africa, always check that the product matches standard purity levels (preferably 24K for investment purposes).
Methods to test gold purity in Africa.
These are commonly used by buyers, jewelers, and gold dealers across the continent to ensure authenticity and value:
1. Acid Test (Nitric Acid Testing)
How it works:
A small scratch is made on the gold item and a drop of nitric acid is applied. The reaction helps identify if the item is genuine gold and its approximate karat level. Gold Purity Chart
Common in:
Local markets and jewelry shops in Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa.
Pros:
- Low cost
- Simple to use
- Gives fast results
Cons:
- Slightly damages the surface
- Requires experience to interpret results accurately
- Electronic Gold Tester
How it works:
Electronic gold testers measure the electrical conductivity of gold. Different karat levels produce different readings on the device.
Common in:
Urban jewelry stores and licensed gold dealerships in Nairobi, Johannesburg, Accra, and Dar es Salaam.
Pros:
- Non-destructive
- Quick and accurate
- Works for different types of gold (white, yellow, etc.)
Cons:
- Devices can be expensive
- Requires calibration and proper handling
- XRF Analyzer (X-Ray Fluorescence)
How it works:
A handheld or bench-top XRF machine uses X-rays to analyze the metal composition instantly, showing the exact percentage of gold and alloy elements.
Common in:
High-end refineries, customs offices, and export hubs in countries like Ghana, Uganda, and South Africa.
Pros:
- Extremely accurate
- Non-destructive
- Detects impurities and other metals
Cons:
- Expensive equipment
- Mostly used by professionals
- Water Density Test
How it works:
Gold’s density is 19.32 g/cm³. This test involves weighing the gold and measuring the volume of water it displaces. The result is compared with the known density of pure gold. Gold Purity Chart
Common in:
Smaller gold shops or home testing across Africa, especially in informal markets.
Pros:
- Simple science-based method
- Can be done at home with a scale and water
Cons:
- It requires precision
- Less accurate if the item is hollow or has stones
Note: When buying gold in Africa, especially in busy markets or online, always request a gold purity test before purchase or work only with certified and licensed dealers.
Here’s a detailed description of Gold Refining Standards in African Countries, offering a country-specific analysis of how gold is refined and certified for purity across the continent. This content is SEO-optimized and perfect for blog or web use.
Gold Refining Standards in African Countries
Africa is one of the richest continents in terms of gold reserves, with several nations leading in mining, refining, and exporting. However, the standards for refining and certifying gold purity vary from country to country. Understanding these national standards is essential for buyers, investors, and traders seeking to purchase refined, certified gold from Africa.
South Africa
Refining Standards:
South Africa has some of the strictest gold refining and certification systems on the continent. Gold refining is regulated by the South African Precious Metals Act and overseen by the South African Mint and Rand Refinery one of the largest in the world.
Purity Certification:
- Refiners commonly produce 99.99% pure gold (24K).
- Gold is stamped and certified with internationally recognized marks.
- Exports must meet global LBMA (London Bullion Market Association) standards.
Ghana
Refining Standards:
Ghana is one of West Africa’s gold powerhouses. Gold refining is managed by entities such as Gold Coast Refinery and monitored by the Minerals Commission. Gold Purity Chart
Purity Certification:
- Common output: 22K to 24K gold for both jewelry and investment.
- Gold bars are marked with serial numbers, weight, and purity stamps.
- The government promotes refining domestically before export to capture more value.
Tanzania
Refining Standards:
Tanzania has improved its gold refining regulations with the introduction of local gold refineries such as Geita Gold Refinery. Oversight is provided by the Tanzania Minerals Commission.
Purity Certification:
- Refiners focus on producing 99.5%–99.9% purity.
- Exports require government certification and tax clearance.
- All gold exports must be refined, weighed, and sealed before shipment.
Kenya
Refining Standards:
Kenya’s gold refining industry is growing, with facilities such as Kenya Precious Metals Refinery supporting government goals to process gold locally. The Ministry of Mining oversees operations.
Purity Certification:
- Gold is typically refined to 22K or 24K.
- Gold for export is certified through the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS).
- The government encourages transparent trade and refining regulation.
Uganda
Refining Standards:
Uganda is emerging as a gold refining hub in East Africa, with large refiners like African Gold Refinery (AGR) operating under growing regulatory scrutiny. Gold Purity Chart
Purity Certification:
- Most refined gold is targeted for export markets (99.5%–99.9% purity).
- Certification from Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) and local assay offices is required.
- Tighter controls have been introduced to combat illicit gold flows.
Mali
Refining Standards:
Mali is a major gold exporter, though it traditionally relies more on semi-refined gold or direct shipment from mines. Gold is often exported to Dubai or Europe for final refinement.
Purity Certification:
- On-site testing and assay certificates required before export.
- The government is encouraging investment in local refining infrastructure.
Summary: African Gold Refining Standards at a Glance
| Country | Common Purity | Regulatory Body | Export Certification |
| South Africa | 99.99% (24K) | Rand Refinery, Precious Metals Regulator | LBMA-level stamping |
| Ghana | 22K–24K | Tanzania Minerals Commission | Serial stamping |
| Tanzania | 99.5%–99.9% | Tanzania Minerals Commission | Assay & tax clearance
|
| Kenya | 22K–24K | Ministry of Mining, KEBS | KEBS certification |
| Uganda | 99.5%–99.9% | Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) | AGR assay required |
| Mali | 22K–24K | Semi-refined | Mining Ministry Assay & export permit
|
Note. Gold refining standards across Africa are steadily improving, with many countries moving toward local value addition, international certification, and export-ready refinement. For investors and buyers, understanding each country’s gold refining system helps ensure you’re purchasing genuine, certified gold at the right purity and price.
Interested in buying certified gold bars from Africa?
Contact Gold Prices in Africa Limited for direct access to trusted, licensed suppliers in Ghana, South Africa, Uganda, Kenya, and more. Gold Purity Chart
Gold Hallmarking and Certification in Africa
Overview of Hallmarking Systems, Common Stamps, and Government Regulations
Gold hallmarking plays a critical role in protecting buyers, regulating trade, and ensuring purity in African gold markets. As gold continues to be a top commodity across Africa, more countries are developing systems to standardize gold quality through hallmarking and certification.
Below is an overview of how gold is officially stamped, certified, and regulated in major African gold-producing and trading nations.
What is Gold Hallmarking?
Gold hallmarking is the official process of stamping gold products (bars, coins, or jewelry) with marks that certify the purity and authenticity of the metal. These marks are usually applied by licensed assay offices or government-authorized bodies.
Hallmarking Systems by Country
Ghana
- Certification Authority: Minerals Commission of Ghana
Common Hallmarks:
- Purity mark (e.g., 999.9 for 24K)
- Refiner or jeweler’s logo
- Serial number on gold bars
- Regulation: All exportable gold must be tested and stamped by the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC).
South Africa
- Certification Authority: South African Bureau of Standards (SABS)
Common Hallmarks:
- Manufacturer’s mark
- Metal fineness (e.g., 916 for 22K, 999 for 24K)
- Year of assay
- Regulation: The Precious Metals Act enforces strict refining and hallmarking standards.
- South African hallmarking is globally recognized, especially from Rand Refinery.
Kenya
- Certification Authority: Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) & Ministry of Mining
Common Hallmarks:
- Purity stamp (22K or 24K)
- Refiner/assayer ID
- Government certification tag (especially for exports)
- Regulation: Hallmarking is mandatory for gold exports. Local dealers are encouraged to hallmark jewelry sold in Nairobi and Mombasa markets. Gold Purity Chart
Uganda
- Certification Authority: Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) & Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS)
Common Hallmarks:
- AGR hallmark (African Gold Refinery)
- Fineness number (999.9 for 24K)
- Assay certificate number
- Regulation: Tighter control due to global pressure on illicit gold trade. All gold exports must be stamped and documented.
Tanzania
- Certification Authority: Tanzania Minerals Commission
Common Hallmarks:
- Government-assigned certificate number
- Serial and purity marking on bars
- Refiner’s identification
- Regulation: All mined gold must be sold through official refining centers, where it is tested, refined, and hallmarked before export.
Common Hallmarks Found Across Africa
| Hallmark Type | What It Indicates |
| Fineness Mark | Gold purity (e.g., 999.9 = 24K, 916 = 22K) |
| Assayer’s Mark | Approved lab or refinery identification |
| Serial Number | Unique tracking ID for gold bars or export logs |
| Government Seal | Certifies compliance with export or purity laws |
Government Regulations & Export Requirements
Most African gold-exporting countries now require:
- Pre-export assay and certification
- Official hallmark stamps on gold bars
- Documentation of source and purity
- Licensing for exporters and dealers
This ensures:
- Traceability
- Compliance with international anti-money laundering (AML) laws
- Buyer protection in international markets (especially UK, UAE, and India)
Why Gold Hallmarking Matters to Buyers
- Guarantees authenticity and purity
- Protects against counterfeits and impure gold
- Increases resale and investment value
- Mandatory for export or import in many countries
Note. As African gold gains more recognition on global markets, hallmarking and certification are becoming essential for trust, safety, and trade compliance. Whether you’re a buyer in Nairobi, a trader in Johannesburg, or an investor in London sourcing from Africa, always ask for hallmarked and certified gold.
Gold Purity Myths and Scams in Africa
Expose of Common Fraud Schemes & How to Avoid Being Tricked
Africa is rich in natural gold, but unfortunately, it’s also a hotspot for gold scams and myths that trap inexperienced buyers and investors. From fake purity claims to counterfeit bars, many people have lost money due to dishonest dealers and misinformation.
In this guide, we’ll uncover the most common gold scams in Africa, the myths surrounding gold purity, and how you can protect yourself and your investment.
Common Gold Purity Myths in Africa
- “All African Gold Is 24K”
Not true. While some artisanal gold in West Africa is naturally high-purity, much of the gold sold locally is:
- 22K (91.6%) or lower for jewelry
- Mixed with other metals like copper or silver
- Sometimes completely fake or gold-plated
- “Real Gold Doesn’t Need Testing”
This myth is often used to pressure buyers into quick deals. In reality:
- Even real gold must be tested for purity
- Professional dealers always offer assay reports or hallmarks
- “If It’s Heavy and Yellow, It’s Gold”
Weight and color are not reliable indicators of purity. Scammers often use:
- Tungsten or lead-filled bars
- Brass coated with gold
- Fake stamps and serial numbers
Top Gold Scam Tactics in Africa
- Fake Documentation
Scammers provide:
- Photoshopped assay reports
- Counterfeit export licenses
- Fake names for real refineries (e.g., “Rand Refinery Kenya” – which doesn’t exist)
How to avoid it:
- Verify documents with official bodies like the Minerals Commission, PMMC, or LBMA.
- “Pay Upfront for a Quick Deal”
You’re asked to:
- Pay before you see the gold
- Pay a “clearance fee” or “customs charge”
- Use untraceable payment methods like crypto or mobile money
How to avoid it:
- Use escrow services, trusted legal contracts, or purchase only through licensed dealers.
- Fake Bars & Coated Nuggets
Common in informal markets in:
- Ghana (Kumasi, Accra)
- Kenya (Nairobi, Migori)
- Uganda (Kampala)
Fraudsters sell:
- Tungsten bars coated in gold
- Gold dust mixed with sand or iron filings
- “Tested” bars that pass one method but fail lab tests
How to avoid it:
- Request a live XRF or fire assay test
- Buy only from registered refineries with certified stamps
- “We Work with Government Officials”
A common lie used to create fake legitimacy. They may claim to:
- Have government connections to speed up export
- Work “undercover” with mineral departments
How to avoid it:
- Contact the official government mining authority of that country
- Never trust deals that sound too easy or confidential
How to Avoid Gold Scams in Africa
| Step | Description |
| Verify dealer | Use only licensed and registered dealers |
| Demand tests | Ask for assay or XRF test results before buying |
| Check documentation | Verify all documents with government authorities |
| Avoid cash deals | Use secure, traceable payments |
| Don’t rush | Scammers pressure you to act fast — take your time |
Conclusion
Knowing the gold purity chart in Africa is crucial for gold buyers, investors, and traders. With gold being one of the most valued commodities on the continent, a strong understanding of purity standards can save you money, protect your investment, and ensure authenticity.
Looking to buy gold bars near you in Africa? Contact Gold Prices in Africa Limited for certified gold bars with guaranteed purity. Gold Purity Chart