Is Your Gold Jewelry Pure? Here's How to Check BIS Hallmark and Avoid Fake Gold

Gold jewelry holds a special place in every Indian household — not just as a fashion accessory but also as a long-term investment. However, in recent years, rising incidents of impure or mixed gold jewelry have raised serious concerns among buyers. Whether you’re purchasing a simple gold chain or an intricate bridal set, checking the authenticity and purity of gold has become absolutely essential.

So, how can you make sure the gold you’re buying is truly pure? The answer lies in a small but powerful mark — the BIS Hallmark.

What Is BIS Hallmark and Why It Matters

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the official body responsible for certifying the purity of gold and silver jewelry in India. Every piece of BIS-hallmarked jewelry comes with a specific stamp or engraving that acts as proof of its purity.

This hallmark is not just a symbol — it’s a government-backed assurance that the gold you’re buying has been tested and verified for quality. Without it, you could be paying for 22-carat jewelry while actually receiving 18-carat or even lower purity gold.

Key Details on a BIS-Hallmarked Jewelry Piece

Every BIS-hallmarked gold item now carries three key elements:

BIS Logo:
This is a standard mark showing that the jewelry has been tested and approved by BIS-certified laboratories.

Purity in Karat (K):
This indicates the gold’s fineness. For instance,

• 22K gold = 91.6% pure

• 18K gold = 75% pure

• 14K gold = 58.5% pure

The higher the karat number, the greater the gold content and purity.

HUID Number (Hallmark Unique Identification Number):
Introduced by BIS in 2021, the HUID is a six-digit alphanumeric code unique to each jewelry piece. It helps track the origin and details of that particular ornament, ensuring full transparency for buyers.

How to Verify Hallmarked Gold Jewelry

Checking the hallmark on gold jewelry is simple, but verifying it is even more reliable with digital tools. Here’s how you can confirm your jewelry’s authenticity:

• Step 1: Look for the BIS logo, purity number (like 22K or 18K), and HUID on the jewelry’s inner side or clasp area.

• Step 2: Visit the official BIS Care app (available on Android and iOS).

• Step 3: Enter the HUID number mentioned on your jewelry.

• Step 4: The app will display all details of that jewelry — including the jeweler’s name, purity level, and verification status.

If the details on the app and your jewelry don’t match, it’s a red flag.

Why You Should Never Buy Non-Hallmarked Gold

Many local or unregistered jewelers may offer “discounted” gold jewelry without a BIS hallmark. However, such pieces are risky — they may contain lesser purity than what you’re paying for, or even mixed metals that reduce value significantly.

Since June 2021, the Government of India has made BIS hallmarking mandatory for all gold jewelry and artifacts in most parts of the country. Buying non-hallmarked jewelry not only puts your money at risk but also makes it difficult to resell or exchange in the future.

Expert Tip: Always Demand a Bill

Even if your jewelry has the correct hallmark, always ask for a proper bill or invoice. A genuine jeweler will mention the weight, purity, and HUID number on the receipt. This not only ensures transparency but also helps in future valuation or resale.

Conclusion

The BIS hallmark is the ultimate trust seal for gold jewelry in India. Before making your next purchase — whether it’s a small ring or an elaborate bridal necklace — make sure to check the BIS logo, purity mark, and HUID number.

By spending just a few extra minutes verifying these details, you can safeguard your investment, ensure purity, and enjoy your jewelry with complete peace of mind.