Consumers urged to verify precious metal content before purchasing gold-wrapped jewellery

Customers buying gold-wrapped jewellery are strongly encouraged to verify the precious metal content and supporting documentation before making a purchase. Some pawnbrokers have reported a growing number of disgruntled customers, when told that their jewellery was gold-wrapped and not solid gold. Associations representing jewellers and pawnbrokers said buyers should also purchase from accredited sources, as the layers of gold can vary substantially. Consumer watchdog CASE is urging manufacturers and retailers to be upfront and state clearly the thickness of the gold coating. Aldrina Thirunagaran and Sabrina Ng report.