Zakat is a powerful act of worship that purifies your wealth and helps those in need. But when it comes to gold, many Muslims aren’t sure how to calculate their zakat accurately—what weight matters, what’s exempt, and how to determine the amount due.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to calculate zakat on gold, using simple examples, practical tools, and clear steps you can follow today.
Quick Answer: How Do You Calculate Zakat on Gold?
Zakat on gold is calculated at 2.5% of the total value of gold owned that exceeds the nisab threshold and has been held for one lunar year.
You need to:
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Weigh your gold.
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Check the current market value.
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Confirm that it meets the nisab (minimum threshold).
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Apply the 2.5% zakat rate.
Let’s break this down in more detail.
Step 1: Understand the Nisab for Gold
The nisab is the minimum amount of gold a Muslim must own before zakat becomes obligatory.
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Nisab for gold is 85 grams.
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If you own 85 grams or more of gold and have held it for a full Islamic year (hawl), you must pay zakat on it.
Note: The value of gold fluctuates, so always check the current market price per gram.
You can skip the math by using a smart digital tool like zakatcalculator.com.ng—which automatically factors in the latest gold price and calculates your zakat instantly.
Step 2: Weigh All Your Gold Items
Weigh all your gold that is in your possession, including:
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Gold jewelry (bracelets, necklaces, rings)
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Gold bars or coins
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Inherited gold
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Stored gold that’s not in daily use
Some scholars debate whether personal-use jewelry is zakatable. To be safe and earn more reward, most people pay zakat on all gold they own.
Example:
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You own 120 grams of gold.
Since 120g > 85g (nisab), zakat is obligatory.
Step 3: Determine the Current Value of Gold
Check the price of gold per gram in your local currency (e.g., USD, NGN, GBP).
Let’s say:
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Current gold price = $60 per gram
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You have 120 grams of gold
Total value of your gold:
120g × $60 = $7,200
Step 4: Apply the Zakat Rate (2.5%)
Zakat is calculated at 2.5% of the total gold value.
$7,200 × 2.5% = $180
This is the amount you must give in zakat for your gold this year.
Summary Table for Quick Reference
| Gold Owned (grams) | Gold Price per Gram | Total Value | Zakat (2.5%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 90g | $60 | $5,400 | $135 |
| 120g | $60 | $7,200 | $180 |
| 150g | $60 | $9,000 | $225 |
To make it even easier, plug your numbers into zakatcalculator.com.ng and let it handle the math.
What If You Have Mixed Gold and Cash?
If you own gold and have cash savings or other zakatable assets, you should calculate zakat on your total net wealth.
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Add the value of your gold to your savings.
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Subtract immediate debts or dues.
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Apply 2.5% on the remainder.
Example:
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Gold = $7,200
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Savings = $2,000
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Debts due within a year = $1,000
Total zakatable wealth = $7,200 + $2,000 – $1,000 = $8,200
Zakat due = 2.5% × $8,200 = $205
This gives you a holistic zakat calculation.
FAQs on Zakat for Gold
1. Do I pay zakat on gold jewelry I wear daily?
According to many scholars, yes, especially if the value is high. Paying zakat is safer and ensures purification of wealth.
2. Can I pay zakat from the gold itself?
Yes, but it’s more common to pay in cash equivalent of the gold’s value, especially if it’s jewelry.
3. What if the gold fluctuates in price?
Always use the current market price at the time you calculate zakat.
4. Do I have to pay zakat if the gold hasn’t reached nisab?
No. If you own less than 85 grams of gold and no other zakatable assets, zakat is not obligatory.
Why Use an Online Zakat Calculator?
Doing the math yourself can be confusing—especially with changing prices and currency conversions.
That’s why tools like zakatcalculator.com.ng are incredibly helpful. You can:
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Check the current nisab value in your currency.
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Input your gold amount.
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Automatically calculate your zakat.
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Even manage other types of zakat (cash, savings, business, etc.)
It’s fast, reliable, and gives peace of mind.
Conclusion: Don’t Delay, Purify Your Wealth Today
Zakat on gold is a beautiful act of giving that brings blessings to your wealth and supports those in need. All it takes is a little time once a year to calculate it properly.
Remember:
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Zakat becomes due once your gold exceeds 85 grams and is held for one lunar year.
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You only pay 2.5% of its current market value.
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Use reliable tools like zakatcalculator.com.ng to calculate and manage your zakat without stress.
Zakat is not just a duty—it’s a path to spiritual growth, financial discipline, and a better society. Start today.