Understanding BIS Hallmarking: What Every Buyer Should Know

When you buy gold jewellery, you’re not just investing in a beautiful piece — you’re investing in trust and purity. But how can you be sure your gold is genuine? That’s where BIS Hallmarking comes in. It’s your guarantee that the gold you purchase meets the highest standards of purity and authenticity.

In this blog, we’ll help you understand what BIS hallmarking means, why it’s important, and how to identify it before making your next jewellery purchase.

What Is BIS Hallmarking?

BIS Hallmarking is the certification of purity for gold and silver jewellery by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) — India’s national standards body.
It assures that the metal content in your jewellery meets the declared karatage (such as 22K, 18K, etc.).

The process involves testing the jewellery at a BIS-recognized Assaying and Hallmarking Centre to confirm its purity before it’s marked with official symbols.

Why BIS Hallmarking Matters

Gold is a valuable asset, and even the smallest impurity can lead to a loss of value. BIS hallmarking protects you from being misled about the purity or quality of your gold jewellery.

Here’s why it’s important:

1. Authenticity Guaranteed – Confirms that your gold meets BIS purity standards.
2. Protection from Fraud – Ensures you’re not overpaying for lower-quality gold.
3. Better Resale Value – Hallmarked jewellery fetches a fair price during resale or exchange.
4. Legal Assurance – Hallmarking is now mandatory in India for most gold jewellery.
5. Consumer Confidence – Builds trust between buyers and jewellers.

Components of a BIS Hallmark

A BIS-hallmarked gold ornament carries four key symbols that you should always check before buying:

1. BIS Logo – Represents certification by the Bureau of Indian Standards.
2. Purity/Fineness Grade – Indicates the gold’s karatage, such as 22K (916), 18K (750), or 14K (585).
3. Assaying and Hallmarking Centre’s Mark – Identifies the certified testing centre.
4. Jeweller’s Identification Mark – A unique code for the jeweller who sold the piece.

(Tip: Always ask your jeweller to explain these marks and show the hallmark clearly before purchase.)

Example of Purity Grades in BIS Hallmarking

Is BIS Hallmarking Mandatory?

Yes! As of June 2021, BIS hallmarking is mandatory across India for gold jewellery and artefacts (with few exemptions such as export items or special designs).
Only registered jewellers and BIS-approved centres are authorized to sell hallmarked gold.

This move ensures transparency and protects consumers from deceptive purity claims.

Also Read – Importance of Quality Control in Gold Jewellery Manufacturing

How to Verify BIS Hallmark Online

BIS has made verification easy through its BIS Care App, available on Android and iOS.

Here’s how to check:

1. Download the BIS Care App from the Play Store or App Store.
2. Enter the 6-digit HUID (Hallmark Unique Identification) number engraved on your jewellery.
3. The app will display details about purity, jeweller, and hallmarking centre.

This ensures that your purchase is completely genuine and traceable.

Common Myths About BIS Hallmarking

Myth 1: Hallmarking increases gold prices.
➡️ Fact: The hallmarking charge is minimal (around ₹45 per piece), ensuring purity at a small cost.

Myth 2: All jewellers can hallmark jewellery.
➡️ Fact: Only BIS-certified jewellers can sell hallmarked gold legally.

Myth 3: Imported gold doesn’t need hallmarking.
➡️ Fact: All gold jewellery sold in India must adhere to BIS hallmarking regulations.

Conclusion

BIS hallmarking is more than a mark — it’s a promise of trust, purity, and transparency.
As a responsible buyer, always look for the BIS logo and HUID number before purchasing any gold item. It’s the smartest way to protect your investment and ensure genuine quality.

At Sunbera, we take pride in offering 100% BIS-hallmarked jewellery, crafted with precision and passion — because your trust is our true hallmark.

Sunbera Team

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