Buying Gold as an Investment in Germany: What You Should Know
Many people in Germany see gold as a building block for diversifying their assets over the long term. But not all gold is the same: there are important differences between a gold bar and a gold bracelet – in tax, in price and in resale.
In this article, we explain the common forms of buying gold, the most important basic tax rules and where gold jewelry fits in. It does not replace personal tax or investment advice.
The forms of buying gold
- Investment gold: Bars and certain coins with a very high fineness.
- Gold securities: Certificates and exchange-traded products where you do not hold any physical gold.
- Gold jewelry: Rings, chains and bracelets that you wear and whose gold content has a material value.
Investment gold and jewelry gold compared
In Germany, investment gold is exempt from VAT. When buying, you mainly pay the gold value and a small premium. Gold jewelry, on the other hand, is subject to the standard VAT rate of 19%, and its price includes not only the material but also design and craftsmanship.
When resold, jewelry is usually valued by its pure gold content. A 585 bracelet (14 karat) contains 58.5% fine gold, a 916 piece (22 karat) 91.6%. Design and craftsmanship are the value you enjoy while wearing it.
What you should know about tax
For private individuals, gains from selling physical gold are generally tax-free in Germany if more than one year passes between purchase and sale (Section 23 of the German Income Tax Act). Keep your invoices safe. For your personal situation, please consult a tax advisor.
Opportunities and risks
Gold pays no interest and no dividends. Its price can fluctuate considerably, even over longer periods. Many investors therefore see gold not as a quick return but as a long-term addition. An increase in value is not guaranteed. Read how to assess price fluctuations in our article The Changing Gold Price.
Where gold jewelry fits in
If investing is your main goal, investment gold is usually the better choice. Gold jewelry, on the other hand, combines two things: you wear it every day, and it keeps its material value. High-karat pieces such as 916 gold have a particularly high gold content. Our article Why Gold Jewelry Is a Valuable Investment shows why gold jewelry is more than decoration.
What to look for when buying
- Hallmark: The fineness should be visible on the piece, for example 585, 750 or 916.
- Weight: Look for a clear indication in grams.
- Invoice: It documents the date of purchase, alloy and weight.
- Seller: Buy from retailers with clear contact details and an address.
If you want to combine value and the joy of wearing, discover our gold bracelets in 585 and 916.