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What to Look for When Buying Gold and Silver Bars in UK

Gold and silver bars nestled in a bird's nest, symbolizing the safe and secure investment in precious metals.

Introduction

Investing in gold and silver bars is a time-honoured method of preserving wealth. This article provides a detailed guide on what to look for when buying these precious metals in the UK.

Why Buy Gold and Silver Bars

Gold and silver bars nestled in a bird's nest, symbolizing the safe and secure investment in precious metals.
Secure Your Wealth: Investing in Gold and Silver Bars

Gold and silver bars are tangible assets that hold intrinsic value. They offer a hedge against inflation and currency fluctuations, making them a popular choice for investors. Investors looking to enjoy the touch, feel, and security of owning gold may wish to buy gold bars instead of intangible investments such as gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs). In the current climate of market uncertainty and high inflation, buying gold and silver bars can be a strategic move. These tangible assets offer a hedge against inflation and currency fluctuations, providing a safe haven for investors. As gold and silver prices often move contrary to stock market trends, investing in these precious metals can add stability and diversification to your portfolio.

Why Buy Gold and Silver Bars

Gold and silver bars are tangible assets with intrinsic value. They hedge against inflation and currency fluctuations. Investors often buy gold bars over intangible investments like gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs).

What to Look for When Buying Gold Bars

Consider factors like purity, weight, brand, and price when buying gold bars. The London Bullion Market sets the gold price twice a day. Look for gold bars with full LBMA (London Bullion Market Association) accreditation. Ideally, gold bars should have at least 99.9% purity.

J Blundell and Sons, a reputable dealer, sells LBMA bars at 99.99% purity. All their gold bars have a unique serial number and certification.

What to Look for When Buying Silver Bars

When buying silver bars, consider the purity, weight, brand, and price. Look for a unique serial number on the bar. J Blundell and Sons sells Metalor bars, known for their purity worldwide.

Understanding Pricing

Understanding gold and silver bar pricing ensures you’re getting a fair price. The price does fluctuates with demand however the spot price determines the market price per ounce.

Where to Buy Gold and Silver Bars

You can buy physical gold and silver in bullions, coins or jewellery through an online or local metal dealer, collector or bank. Consider the pros and cons of buying online vs. in-person. At Jblundells we offer both online buying of bullion and in store buying.

Avoiding Scams

Avoid scams when buying gold and silver bars. Review websites like the Better Business Bureau and Ripoff Report to learn about a gold seller’s reputation. Always verify the authenticity of the seller and the gold bars before purchasing. We would strongly advise not buying from any individual or unregistered business over social media or cold marketing emails.

Conclusion

Investing in gold and silver bars can be a sound decision during economic uncertainty. However, do your research and understand the intricacies of buying these precious metals. Consider factors like purity, weight, provenance, and storage to make an informed decision.

References

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Why Is My Jewellery not 24 Carat Gold?

fine gold for jewellery

Understanding the Properties of Gold

Gold, in its purest form, is known as 24 carat gold. It’s highly valued for its bright yellow lustre and its resistance to tarnish. However, one of the most distinguishing properties of gold is its softness. The incredible malleability and ductility of gold allow it to be shaped and stretched without breaking. These properties make it ideal for various uses. For instance, in electronics, manufacturers shape thin gold wires as needed, and in dentistry, dentists precisely shape gold fillings to fit a patient’s tooth.

Why is 24 Carat Gold not used for Jewellery?

fine gold, gold bars, fine gold

Despite these useful properties, the softness of 24 carat gold makes it less suitable for crafting durable jewellery. Jewellery needs to withstand daily wear and tear, and a piece made from pure gold could easily lose its shape or let a precious stone slip out. That’s why jewellers often use gold alloys, which are mixtures of gold and other metals, for making jewellery.

Understanding Gold Carats and Alloys

We use the term ‘carat’ to denote the purity of gold, with 24 carats representing pure gold. When we mix other metals with gold, the carat value decreases. Here’s a simple breakdown:

Carat% of Fine Gold
2499.999%
2291.6%
1875%
1458.5%
0937.5%
Common fineness used in Gold Jewellery

For example, 22 k gold is an alloy that’s 91.7% gold and 8.3% other metals like copper or silver. These additional metals give the alloy a hardness that pure gold lacks, making it more suitable for crafting durable jewellery.

Turning Your Gold into Cash

Whether you have 24 carat gold or a lower carat alloy, you can turn your unwanted gold into cash at J Blundell & Sons Ltd. We offer competitive scrap gold prices and same-day payments, making it easy to sell your gold. As a trusted gold buyer and pawnbroker, we also provide loans against gold, offering a secure way to access funds without selling your precious metals.

In the world of gold, understanding the difference between carats and the properties of gold can help you make informed decisions, whether you’re buying, selling, or securing a loan against gold.

External Links:

  1. Gold and its properties
  2. Understanding Gold Purity
  3. How to sell your gold
  4. Understanding the value of gold
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Metalor Sealed Gold Bars: Advanced Security

: Metalor Sealed Gold Bar

When it comes to investing in gold, security and authenticity are paramount. Metalor, a renowned global refinery, offers sealed gold bars that provide UK investors with peace of mind. These high-quality bars, trusted by gold bullion companies and dealers, ensure the safety and value of your investment.

I. Metalor: A Trusted Refinery for Gold Bullion in the UK

Metalor, a reputable global refinery, is a trusted choice for gold bullion in the UK. Gold dealers in the UK rely on Metalor’s commitment to quality and reliability.

II. LBMA Approved for Authenticity and Quality

Sealed gold bars hold the prestigious approval of the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA), guaranteeing their authenticity and adherence to the highest industry standards. Invest with confidence, knowing you have genuine gold bullion.

III. Enhanced Security Features for Peace of Mind

Sealed Packaging:

Metalor seals their bars to protect against tampering and preserve integrity, ensuring your investment’s security.

Certificate of Authenticity:

Each Metalor sealed gold bar comes with a certificate, providing further assurance of quality and provenance. This certificate verifies the bar’s authenticity for seamless buying and selling.

IV. Range of Weights for Flexible Investment Options

Metalor offers sealed gold bars in various weights, catering to different investment preferences. Choose from 1 gm to 100 gm, tailoring your investment to your goals.

V. Trusted Source: JBlundells – Your Reliable Bullion Office in the UK

JBlundells exclusively offers Metalor’s LBMA approved sealed gold bars, providing reliable and authentic gold bullion. As a trusted gold dealer in the UK, JBlundells ensures your investment is in safe hands.

Conclusion:

Investing in gold bullion is a wise decision, and Metalor’s sealed gold bars offer security and authenticity. With LBMA approval and advanced security features, these bars provide peace of mind. Buy gold in the UK confidently through JBlundells, knowing you’re investing in trusted gold bullion.

Keywords: gold bullion, buy gold UK, gold dealers UK, gold bullion companies, bullion office

References:

Metalor: Bullion Investment Products. Retrieved from: Metalor Bullion Investment Products

Metalor: About Us. Retrieved from: Metalor – Creating Value Sustainably

II. LBMA Approved for Authenticity and Quality
Metalor’s sealed gold bars hold the prestigious approval of the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA), guaranteeing their authenticity and the highest industry standards. Invest with confidence, knowing you have genuine gold bullion.

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Advanced Security on Metalor 1000gm Gold Bars

In the realm of gold investment, one name that has stood the test of time is Metalor. Renowned worldwide for the quality of their gold bars, they offer some of the most secure investment options on the market. This post explains the innovative security features of Metalor’s 1000gm gold bars and their significance to asset protection.

Metalor – A Trusted Name in Gold

Metalor is a Swiss-based global leader in precious metals, known for its high quality gold bars. They continue to set industry standards, particularly in the area of bullion security features.

Investing in Metalor 1000gm Gold Bars

Investors in the UK and across the globe prefer Metalor 1 kilo gold bars. Investors celebrate these bars for their unique safety and physical sense of wealth and security.

Metalor’s Response to Counterfeit Gold Bars

The precious metals market has seen a rise in counterfeit and fake kilobars, tarnishing its reputation. To restore trust and integrity, Metalor, in collaboration with SICPA, developed a technology-based security feature, BullionProtect®. This high-security ink solution applied directly to the bullion ensures its authenticity.

BullionProtect® – An Innovative Security Solution

BullionProtect® empowers all parties in the supply chain to confirm the authenticity of precious metal products on three levels:

  1. Certification: A standard certificate accompanies the bar that matches serial number indented on the bar. These are not reprinted by the company and only come from headquarters.
  2. Quick verification: A blinking light system or validator provides rapid validation. For instance, with a credit-card sized validator, a hundred kilobars can be checked in less than a minute.
  3. QR code verification: Each bar comes with a unique QR code embedded in the seal, readable by any smartphone.

Metalor Check – An Essential Tool for Bar Owners

With the Metalor Check iOS application, bar owners can easily authenticate their Metalor gold bar and access detailed information about it, including production date, location, purity, and specifications.

Respecting Your Privacy

Privacy is a priority for Metalor. When you use the Metalor Check application, it doesn’t take or send any picture of the bar, and it doesn’t share any of your personal data To download it, visit the Apple Store from your device.

Adopted Globally

Several LBMA Good Delivery refiners embrace BullionProtect® due to its compatibility with existing and future security measures. The seal, robust and unremovable, further strengthens the security.

To conclude, Metalor designs the advanced security features of their 1000gm gold bars to provide you with a secure investment experience. Every bar has an indented serial number that matches with the number on the provided paper certificate, further ensuring the authenticity of your precious metal investment.

References: [1] https://metalor.com/banks-traders-investment/bullionprotect/ [2] https://metalor.com/banks-traders-investment/bullion-investment-products/cast-bars/

Consider Metalor 1000gm gold bars for your next investment to secure your wealth with advanced security features. Jblundell and Sons LTD is official reseller of Metalor Silver and Gold Bars. All images are credited to Metalor.com

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Physical Gold Investment Options: A Guide to Understanding Your Choices

investment gold, gold bar, gold coin, bullion, uk

Investing in physical gold can be a smart way to diversify your investment portfolio and protect your wealth from market volatility. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the most popular physical gold investment options available to you. We’ll cover topics such as gold bars, gold coins, gold IRAs, VAT exemption on gold, and CGT-free gold coins.

Gold Bars

Gold bars are one of the most popular physical gold investment options available. They come in various sizes, from small bars weighing just a few grams to larger bars weighing several kilograms. When buying gold bars, it’s important to consider factors such as the purity of the gold, the brand, and the dealer’s reputation. Keep in mind that larger bars can be more difficult to sell and may require an assay certificate.

Gold Coins

Gold coins are another popular physical gold investment option. Some of the most well-known gold coins include the American Eagle, Canadian Maple Leaf, and South African Krugerrand. Gold coins are generally more expensive than gold bars due to their numismatic value. When buying gold coins, it’s important to consider factors such as the coin’s condition, rarity, and authenticity.

Gold IRAs

A gold IRA is a self-directed IRA that allows you to invest in physical gold as a part of your retirement savings. This option can be attractive to investors who are looking to diversify their retirement portfolio beyond traditional stocks and bonds. However, it’s important to understand the fees and requirements associated with gold IRAs before investing.

VAT Exemption on Gold

In the UK, investment gold is VAT exempt, which means you won’t have to pay VAT on your gold investment. This exemption applies to gold bars and coins that meet certain purity and weight requirements. Keep in mind that collectible coins, such as numismatic coins, are not eligible for VAT exemption.

CGT-Free Gold Coins

Certain gold coins, such as Sovereigns and Britannia coins, are also exempt from Capital Gains Tax (CGT). This means that you won’t have to pay tax on any gains you make when selling these coins. However, it’s important to understand the CGT-free threshold and other rules associated with these coins before investing.

Conclusion

Investing in physical gold can be a smart way to diversify your investment portfolio and protect your wealth from market volatility. By understanding the different physical gold investment options available to you, including gold bars, gold coins, gold IRAs, VAT exemption on gold, and CGT-free gold coins, you can make informed decisions about how to invest your money. At J Blundell & Sons Ltd, we offer a wide range of physical gold investment options, including gold bars and coins, to help our customers make the most of their investment.

investment gold, gold bar, gold coin, bullion, uk
ash@jblundells.uk.com
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Investment Gold Price Variation

marketing businessman person hands

The global market has made buying and selling investment gold more accessible than ever before. However, have you ever noticed that the price of a particular gold bar or coin can vary greatly between different sellers? Understanding the factors that contribute to these price variations is crucial to getting the best price for your investment gold. In this blog post, we’ll explore the reasons behind investment gold pricing and what you should consider when buying or selling investment gold online.

Understanding Gold’s Live Spot Price

The price of investment gold is constantly changing and is largely determined by the spot price of gold. This live market price for gold can fluctuate throughout the day as the market changes, and it’s determined by various factors such as global supply and demand, inflation, and currency exchange rates. When comparing websites or dealers, it’s essential to ensure that you check the prices at the same time to get an accurate comparison.

Differences in Markups and Premiums

The markup or premium added by the seller can vary depending on several factors such as the dealer’s reputation, marketing spend, customer base, procurement costs, business model, and size. Smaller retailers often have higher procurement costs due to their lower volume of purchases, resulting in higher markups on their products. Additionally, some sellers may include insurance and delivery costs in their prices, while others may charge for these services separately. Understanding these factors can help you make more informed decisions when buying or selling investment gold.

Customer Base and Costs of the Seller

The reputation and customer base of the seller can also influence the price of investment gold. Established dealers with a loyal customer base may charge higher prices due to the trust they’ve built with their customers. On the other hand, newer or less established dealers may offer lower prices to attract new customers.

Delivery and Insurance Costs

When purchasing investment gold online, it’s important to consider delivery and insurance costs. These costs can vary depending on the weight and value of the gold being shipped, as well as the location of the seller and buyer. Be sure to factor in these costs when comparing prices between different sellers.

Market Supply and Demand Dynamics

Finally, market supply and demand dynamics can also impact the price of investment gold. For example, the release of a new gold coin or limited availability of a certain gold product can drive up demand and prices. It’s important to keep up with market news and trends to stay informed about any potential price changes.

In summary, when buying or selling investment gold online, there are several key factors to keep in mind that can influence pricing, including the spot price of gold, markups and premiums, delivery and insurance costs, the reputation and customer base of the seller, and market supply and demand dynamics. By keeping these factors in mind and doing your research, you can make informed decisions when buying or selling investment gold and ensure that you get the best price possible.

At J Blundell & Sons Ltd, we offer competitive prices and exceptional customer service to help our customers make the most of their investment in gold. So, whether you’re a seasoned investor or just getting started with buying investment gold, we’re here to help you make informed decisions.

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Investing in Gold to offest Inflation in UK

cost of living crisis, inflation in UK

As an investor, it’s important to protect your wealth against inflation. Inflation can erode the value of your investments, making it difficult to achieve your long-term financial goals. One way to hedge against inflation is to invest in gold, a safe haven asset that has historically performed well during times of economic uncertainty. Here’s what you need to know about protecting against inflation with gold in the UK.

The Impact of Inflation on the UK Economy

Inflation is a measure of how much the prices of goods and services in an economy are rising over time. In the UK, inflation is measured using the Consumer Prices Index (CPI), which tracks the price changes of a basket of goods and services commonly purchased by households. Over the last 10 years, the UK has experienced an average inflation rate of 2.16% per year, with the highest inflation rate recorded in 2011 at 4.50%.

The Relationship Between Gold and Inflation

Gold has long been considered a hedge against inflation. When the value of currency declines due to inflation, gold tends to maintain its value or even increase in value. This is because gold is a tangible asset that is not affected by the same economic factors as paper currency. In fact, the price of gold has historically increased during times of high inflation.

The Price of Gold and Inflation in the UK

Over the last 10 years, the price of gold in GBP has increased by 131.81%, while the average inflation rate in the UK was 2.16%. This means that the real value of gold has increased significantly over the last decade, making it a popular choice for investors looking to protect their wealth against inflation.

Investing in Gold as a Safe Haven Asset

Gold is often referred to as a safe haven asset because it tends to hold its value during times of economic uncertainty. When stock markets decline or geopolitical tensions rise, investors often flock to gold as a way to protect their wealth. This makes gold an attractive investment option for those looking for a hedge against inflation and a way to diversify their portfolio.

Buying Gold as a Hedge Against Inflation in the UK

There are several ways to invest in gold, including buying physical gold bullion or investing in gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Physical gold can be purchased in the form of coins, bars, or jewellery, and can be stored at home or in a secure vault. Gold ETFs, on the other hand, are traded on stock exchanges and provide exposure to the price of gold without the need for physical ownership.

Protecting your wealth against inflation is important for achieving your long-term financial goals. By investing in gold, you can hedge against inflation and diversify your portfolio with a safe haven asset. If you’re considering investing in gold, contact J Blundell & Sons Ltd for expert advice and guidance on buying gold in the UK.

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LBMA Approved Gold Bullion: What It Is and Why It Matters for Investors

As an investor, you may have heard the term “LBMA approved gold bullion” thrown around. But what exactly does it mean, and why is it important for your investment portfolio? In this post, we will delve into what LBMA is, why it is a global standard, and explain LBMA accreditation in simple terms.

What is LBMA?

LBMA stands for the London Bullion Market Association, an international trade association that represents the wholesale market for gold and silver in London. It was founded in 1987 by the Bank of England and a group of bullion traders in response to growing concerns about market transparency and integrity.

The LBMA operates on a not-for-profit basis and sets standards for the quality and production of gold and silver bars. It also oversees the Good Delivery List, which is recognized as the international benchmark for the quality of gold and silver bars.

Is it a global standard?

Yes, the LBMA is recognized as a global authority on the physical precious metals market, and its standards for gold bullion are widely accepted by traders, investors, and refiners around the world. To be approved by the LBMA, a manufacturer must meet strict criteria regarding the quality and purity of their gold, as well as their production processes and ethical standards.

LBMA approved gold bullion is widely traded and accepted in international markets, and it is often the preferred choice for institutional investors and central banks. When you invest in LBMA approved gold bullion, you can be confident that you are getting a product that meets the highest standards of quality and purity.

LBMA accreditation explained in simple terms

LBMA approved gold bullion refers to gold bars or coins that a manufacturer approved by the LBMA has produced. To maintain LBMA approval, a manufacturer must meet strict criteria regarding the quality and purity of their gold, as well as their production processes and ethical standards.

LBMA approved gold bullion is widely recognized and accepted in international markets, which can make it easier to buy and sell your investment when you need to. When you buy LBMA approved gold bullion, you can be confident that you are getting a product that meets the highest standards of quality and purity.

Where can you buy LBMA accredited gold bars?

At J Blundell and Sons, we only sell LBMA approved gold bars with full certificates, so you can invest with confidence. In addition, our gold bars come with full certificates, providing you with proof of their authenticity and purity. This can give you peace of mind when buying and selling your investment. Please head to Gold bars page

In conclusion, LBMA approved gold bullion is an important consideration for investors who are looking to invest in gold. By choosing LBMA approved gold bullion, investors can be confident that they are getting a product that meets the highest standards of quality and purity, which can be important if they are using the gold for investment purposes. If you are looking to invest in gold, be sure to do your research and choose a reputable dealer that offers LBMA approved gold bullion.

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Do I have to pay Capital Gains Tax on Gold in the UK ?

Gold is considered a “tax-free” investment in the United Kingdom. This means you don’t have to pay capital gains tax (CGT) on any profits you make from buying and selling Gold. There are some exceptions to this rule, which we will discuss in more detail below. 

When CGT is Applicable 

There are two main situations when CGT becomes applicable to gold investments in the UK. The first is when you sell gold coins that are considered to be “collectable.” These coins are worth more than their intrinsic value because of their rarity, condition, or history. For example, some old gold coins may be considered collectable because of their age or because they were once used as currency. 

The second situation when CGT may be applicable is if you use your Gold as collateral for a loan. If you default on the loan and the lender sells your gold to recoup their losses, any profits they make from the sale will be subject to CGT. 

Capital Gains Tax is exempt on all British legal currency, including Gold Sovereigns and Gold Britannia coins. 

How Much CGT Do I Pay? 

The amount of CGT you pay depends on your income tax bracket. You can work out your Capital Gains Tax Rates here. In the UK, there are two rates of CGT: 18% and 28%. You will pay 18% CGT on your profits if you are a basic rate taxpayer. You will pay 28% CGT on your profits if you are a higher-rate taxpayer. It’s important to note that CGT is only payable on profits above the annual exempt amount, which is currently £12,300 per year. This means that if your total profits from asset sales do not exceed this amount, you will not have to pay any CGT. 


It is the responsibility of the individual investor to declare any Capital Gains Tax that might be due. In most cases, you will not have to pay capital gains tax on your Gold investments in the UK.

If you are looking to purchase Gold coins and aren’t sure if you will have to pay CGT, call us, and we can advise you further. 

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When is the Best Time to Buy Gold?

Many people view Gold as a safe investment, especially during economic uncertainty. This precious metal has been used as a form of currency for centuries; its value has only increased over time. So, when is the best time to buy Gold?

There are a few things to consider before making any investments, including the current state of the economy and your personal financial goals. In addition, Gold prices can be affected by various factors, including central bank policy, inflation, geopolitical events, and demand from jewellers and other industries. 

Let’s take a closer look at some of the events that can impact the price of Gold.

Central Bank Policy 

One of the most important factors that can impact the price of Gold is central bank policy. In recent years, central banks worldwide have increasingly turned to Gold as a reserve asset. This means they are buying more Gold to hold onto their balance sheets. 

The central banks’ demand for Gold affects the supply and demand in the market, which in turn impacts the price. When central banks buy Gold, it takes it off the market and increases the cost. On the other hand, when they sell Gold, it adds to the supply and puts downward pressure on prices. 

Inflation 

Another factor that can impact gold prices is inflation. When inflation goes up, so does the price of Gold because it retains its value better than other assets such as stocks or bonds. So investors turn to assets like Gold that will hold their value better over time.

Geopolitical Events 

Geopolitical events can also have an impact on gold prices. For example, tensions in North Korea or trade disputes between the U.S. and China can cause investors to flock to safe-haven assets like Gold. When there is uncertainty in the markets, investors tend to move their money into assets that are seen as being more stable. 

Covid 19

The pandemic caused Gold prices to increase by more than 25%. In the past, Gold prices had been relatively stable, but the outbreak of Covid-19 led to a sharp increase in demand for the metal. Investment banks and hedge funds bought Gold as a safe haven asset, and central banks also increased their Gold reserves. The increased demand led to a shortage of Gold, and prices continued to rise in the short term. In the long term, however, Gold prices started to return to their pre-pandemic levels as the pandemic subsided and economic activity picked up.

Demand from Jewelers and Other Industries 

Another factor that affects gold prices is demand from jewellers and other industries that use Gold in their products. For example, if there is an increase in demand for wedding rings or cell phones, this will lead to higher prices for Gold because more businesses will be competing for limited supplies of the precious metal. 

In summary, Gold prices are affected by various factors. Therefore, when considering whether or not to invest in Gold, it’s essential to consider all of these factors before making any decisions.

We are always happy to advise you when you are looking to make your first investment.