Guides · Global
BIS Hallmark on Gold Jewellery in India: What to Check Before You Pay
How BIS hallmarking protects purity claims, what 916/750 marks mean, and a shopping checklist so “22K” on the tag matches the metal you take home.
Hallmarking is your main defence against under-purity gold jewellery in India. A BIS hallmark signals that the piece was assayed for declared fineness under the Bureau of Indian Standards framework.
This guide shows what to look for on a hallmark, how it ties to 22K/18K claims, and what to do if a shop is vague about purity.
02Why Hallmark Matters
- Confirms declared fineness (e.g. 22K / 916)
- Creates accountability via registered jewellers and assaying centres
- Helps at resale or exchange when purity is disputed
- Reduces reliance on “trust me, it’s 22K” verbal claims
03What You Typically See on a Hallmark
Markings can include the BIS standard mark, purity grade (such as 916 for 22K), jeweller identification, and assaying centre related marks depending on the applicable system and piece size.
- Match the stamped purity to what the invoice says
- Ask staff to show the mark under good light or a loupe if needed
- Be cautious with pieces too small/complex to mark clearly — ask how purity is guaranteed
0422K, 18K, and Fineness Numbers
- 22K ↔ often marked 916 (91.6% gold)
- 18K ↔ often marked 750 (75% gold)
- 24K / 999 is typically for coins/bars more than daily jewellery
05Shopping Checklist
- Prefer BIS-hallmarked jewellery from reputed sellers
- Demand an invoice with weight, purity, rate, making, and tax
- Photograph the hallmark and bill for your records
- For large purchases, compare two shops’ written estimates
06Old Gold Without Clear Marks
Family jewellery from decades ago may lack modern hallmarking. For exchange or sale, expect purity testing. Do not assume heirloom pieces are automatically 22K without assay.
07Final Thoughts
Hallmarking will not fix high making charges — but it does fix the purity question that quietly drains buyers. Make “show me the mark and the breakup” your default sentence at every counter.
Key takeaways
- BIS hallmarking supports declared gold purity.
- Match stamp, tag, and invoice before you pay.
- Keep photos and bills for future exchange or disputes.
- Unmarked old gold should be assayed, not assumed.
Frequently asked questions
Is hallmarking compulsory in India?+
Rules have expanded over time for many gold jewellery categories. Ask the jeweller how they comply and show the mark on the piece you are buying.
Does hallmark mean the price is fair?+
No. Hallmark addresses purity, not making charges or design premiums. You still need a fair breakup.
Can fake hallmark stamps exist?+
Fraud is possible in any market. Buy from trusted sellers, verify marks carefully, and keep official invoices.
What about diamond or stone-studded pieces?+
Gold purity marking and stone certification are separate topics. Confirm both metal and stone documentation.
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