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If you’ve been jewellery shopping and noticed older pieces or antique collections labelled “KDM gold,” you might have wondered what that term actually means. The short answer is that KDM is an older term that described a now-discontinued soldering technique — it’s been officially replaced in India.
What does KDM mean?
KDM stands for Cadmium. It referred to a soldering method where cadmium was mixed with gold to create a solder alloy used to join parts of jewellery — clasps, links, bails. The cadmium-based solder had a similar melting point to gold, making it practical for jewellery work. “KDM gold” became shorthand in the Indian jewellery trade for jewellery made using this cadmium-containing technique — not for the purity of the gold itself.
Why KDM is no longer used in India
Cadmium is a toxic heavy metal. Prolonged exposure causes serious health problems — cadmium fumes during soldering were a significant occupational health risk for goldsmiths. India’s BIS recognised this and cadmium-based solders in gold jewellery have been prohibited under Indian standards. Modern gold jewellery uses cadmium-free solders — typically gold-silver-copper alloys that are safe for craftspeople and wearers alike. All BIS-hallmarked jewellery sold in India today is manufactured without cadmium.
KDM gold vs hallmarked gold today
| Aspect | KDM gold (older) | BIS hallmarked gold (current) |
|---|---|---|
| Solder type | Cadmium-based | Cadmium-free |
| Purity certification | Not standardised by BIS | BIS certified; 916/750 stamped |
| HUID | Not present | Mandatory (verifiable on BIS app) |
| Legal status | Prohibited in new jewellery | Mandatory for all gold sold in India |
Is KDM gold the same as 916 gold?
Not exactly. KDM referred to a soldering technique, not to purity. Many KDM-era pieces were made at 22K (916) purity — so you’ll sometimes hear “KDM 916 gold” as a combined description. But 916 tells you the gold purity; KDM tells you about the manufacturing technique. Today, a piece stamped 916 with a HUID hallmark is certified 22K gold made using safe, cadmium-free methods. See our hallmark numbers guide.
Buying gold today? Browse certified options
Browse BIS hallmarked gold jewellery and accessories on Amazon India — always verify the HUID on the BIS Care app before purchasing. Also see global gold options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is KDM gold?
KDM gold refers to jewellery made using a cadmium-based solder to join parts. The term “KDM” comes from cadmium. It’s an older Indian jewellery trade term for this manufacturing technique, not a purity grade. The use of cadmium solder in Indian gold jewellery has been prohibited by BIS.
Is KDM gold banned in India?
The use of cadmium-based solder in manufacturing new gold jewellery is prohibited under BIS standards in India. You can still own and sell older KDM jewellery — it’s not a banned product, just a discontinued manufacturing technique.
The bottom line
KDM gold is an older term for jewellery made using cadmium-based solder — now prohibited in India. For any new gold purchase, the term to look for is BIS hallmark + HUID. Older KDM jewellery can still be sold or exchanged on its gold purity and weight — the KDM status doesn’t affect resale value.