Buying gold jewellery is not just an emotional decision—it’s also a financial investment. In India, where gold holds cultural and monetary value, ensuring its authenticity is extremely important. This is where gold hallmarking comes into play.

A hallmark is a certification that guarantees the purity of gold. In India, this is regulated by the BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards). Here are 10 simple and practical ways to verify gold hallmarks in India, explained with real-life examples.

1. Check for the BIS Hallmark Logo

The first and most important sign is the BIS logo stamped on the jewellery.

What to look for: A triangular BIS logo engraved on the piece.

Real-life example: You’re buying a gold ring at a jewellery store. Before paying, you check inside the band and spot a small triangle symbol—that confirms BIS certification.

2. Verify the Purity Mark (Karat Value)

Gold purity is always mentioned along with the hallmark.

What to look for: Numbers like 916 (22K), 750 (18K), or 585 (14K).

Real-life example: You buy a gold chain and notice “750” engraved on it. This means it is 18K gold, suitable for daily wear jewellery.

3. Look for the HUID Number

Every hallmarked gold item now comes with a 6-digit alphanumeric HUID code.

What to look for: A unique code engraved along with the hallmark.

Real-life example: After buying earrings, you enter the HUID number in the BIS Care app and confirm the product details match.

4. Check the Jeweller’s Identification Mark

Each BIS-certified jeweller has a unique identification mark.

What to look for: A jeweller’s stamp or code alongside the hallmark.

Real-life example: You compare two stores—one provides a BIS jeweller ID on the product, the other doesn’t. You choose the certified one.

5. Always Ask for a Proper Invoice

A genuine purchase always comes with a detailed bill.

What to look for: Purity, weight, making charges, and HUID mentioned clearly.

Real-life example: A seller offers a discount but avoids giving a bill. You decline and buy from a store that provides a proper invoice.

6. Use the BIS Care App

Technology makes verification easy.

What to look for: Matching details after entering the HUID number in the app.

Real-life example: Before leaving the store, you verify your bracelet on the BIS app and confirm its authenticity instantly.

7. Observe the Stamp Placement

Hallmark stamps are often placed in less visible areas.

What to look for: Engravings inside rings, near clasps, or behind pendants.

Real-life example: You can’t see the hallmark on a necklace initially, but upon checking the clasp, you find the marking.

8. Try a Basic Magnet Test

Gold is a non-magnetic metal.

What to look for: The jewellery should not stick to a magnet.

Real-life example: At home, you test an old gold bracelet with a magnet. It doesn’t stick, giving you confidence about its authenticity.

9. Compare Weight with Market Price

Gold prices are standardized based on purity.

What to look for: Price consistency with current gold rates.

Real-life example: A seller offers a gold ring at a very low price compared to market rates. You double-check and realise the purity may be compromised.

10. Buy Only from BIS-Certified Jewellers

The safest way to ensure authenticity is to buy from trusted sellers.

What to look for: BIS certification displayed in-store or mentioned by the jeweller.

Real-life example: For a wedding purchas

Final Thoughts

Verifying gold hallmarking is simple if you know what to check. By paying attention to the BIS logo, purity mark, HUID number, and proper documentation, you can confidently buy authentic gold jewellery.

Gold is not just an ornament—it’s an investment. A little awareness ensures you get both beauty and value.