About 21 Karat Gold
21 karat gold (87.5% pure) is the traditional jewelry standard across Arab countries — Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. Hallmarked "875". It has a slightly stronger alloy than 22K, making it more durable while retaining the deep yellow colour preferred in traditional Arab designs.
Best use: Traditional Arab jewelry — rings, bangles, necklaces
Hallmark stamp: 875 (used on all Dubai Gold Souk pieces)
21K Gold Rate in Dubai Today
The 21K gold rate in Dubai today is displayed above — live pricing for 87.5% pure gold (21 parts gold out of 24). 21 Karat gold occupies a unique position in the Dubai and wider GCC gold market, particularly popular in traditional Arab and Middle Eastern jewelry styles.
What is 21K Gold?
21 Karat gold contains 87.5% pure gold (21/24 = 0.875), with the remaining 12.5% consisting of alloy metals such as copper, silver, or zinc. This makes it slightly less pure than 22K (91.6%) but significantly more pure than 18K (75%).
21K gold is marked with the hallmark 875 (indicating 875 parts per 1000 are pure gold).
Where is 21K Gold Popular?
21K gold has specific regional popularity:
- Saudi Arabia: Widely used in traditional Saudi bridal jewelry
- Egypt: Very popular for wedding gold sets
- Other Arab countries: Preferred for traditional Arabic jewelry designs
- Dubai Gold Souk: Available at most dealers, especially those specializing in Arabic styles
In contrast, the South Asian community in Dubai tends to prefer 22K gold, while Western-style jewelry buyers typically choose 18K.
21K vs 22K vs 18K — Quick Comparison
| Feature | 21K | 22K | 18K |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purity | 87.5% | 91.6% | 75.0% |
| Hallmark | 875 | 916 | 750 |
| Durability | Good | Good | Excellent |
| Color | Rich yellow | Deep yellow | Lighter yellow/white/rose |
| Best for | Traditional Arab jewelry | South Asian jewelry | Modern/Western jewelry |
21K Gold Price Dubai Today
The live 21K gold rate per gram is shown in the table above. 21K typically trades at approximately 87.5% of the 24K rate (its purity percentage). Use our gold calculator to calculate the exact value of 21K gold items you’re considering purchasing.
Is 21K Gold Good Quality?
Yes — 21K represents high-quality gold suitable for fine jewelry. At 87.5% purity, it offers:
- High gold content for excellent intrinsic value
- Good durability for everyday wear (more alloy than 22K/24K)
- Beautiful color — the rich yellow gold color favored in Arab jewelry
- Strong resale value globally
Buying 21K Gold in Dubai
When purchasing 21K gold at Dubai Gold Souk:
- Check for the 875 hallmark stamp on the piece
- Ask the dealer to separate: gold weight × 21K rate + makting charge
- Typical makting charges: AED 3–12 per gram depending on complexity
- Always get an itemized receipt
- 5% VAT applies to jewelry (tourists can reclaim at airport)
Rates shown are indicative. Always confirm with your jeweler before purchase.