How to Identify Hallmarked Gold Jewelry in India: BIS Standards & Buying Guide
Buying gold jewelry is a significant investment. Understanding hallmarking helps you verify purity, avoid fraud, and make confident purchases. Here's your complete guide to BIS hallmarking standards in India and what to check before you buy from Kishani.
What is hallmarking?
Hallmarking is an official certification that guarantees the purity of precious metals. In India, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) regulates gold hallmarking to protect consumers from adulterated or misrepresented gold jewelry.
What BIS hallmark tells you
- BIS logo: Official certification mark
- Purity grade: 916, 958, 750, or other fineness number
- Assaying center mark: Lab that tested the gold
- Jeweller's identification mark: Unique code of the manufacturer
- Year of marking: Letter code indicating the year (optional from 2021)
Understanding gold purity standards
916 gold (22 karat)
Purity: 91.6% pure gold, 8.4% alloy metals (copper, silver, zinc)
Best for: Traditional Indian jewelry, wedding sets, chains, bangles
Durability: Soft and malleable; suitable for intricate designs but requires careful handling
Investment value: High gold content makes it ideal for long-term value retention
750 gold (18 karat)
Purity: 75% pure gold, 25% alloy metals
Best for: Daily wear jewelry, diamond settings, contemporary designs
Durability: Harder and more scratch-resistant than 22K; ideal for rings and bracelets
Investment value: Lower gold content but higher practicality for everyday use
958 gold (23 karat)
Purity: 95.8% pure gold, 4.2% alloy
Best for: Coins, bars, investment pieces
Durability: Very soft; not recommended for jewelry worn regularly
Investment value: Maximum gold content for those prioritizing purity over design
Common misconception
Myth: "Higher karat always means better quality."
Reality: 22K is softer and bends easily; 18K is stronger and better for daily wear. Choose based on purpose, not just purity number.
6 steps to verify hallmarked gold
- Look for the BIS logo: It should be clearly stamped on the jewelry, usually on the inner side of rings, clasp of chains, or back of earrings.
- Check the purity number: 916, 750, or 958 should appear next to the BIS logo.
- Verify the jeweller's mark: Ask for the jeweller's BIS registration number and cross-check online at the BIS website.
- Request the invoice: It should clearly mention purity, weight (gross and net), and making charges separately.
- Use a magnifying glass: Hallmarks are tiny; a jeweler's loupe or magnifier helps you read them clearly.
- Insist on a certificate: For high-value purchases, ask for a hallmarking certificate or lab assay report.
Red flags to watch for
- No visible hallmark or only "22K" stamped without BIS logo
- Jeweller refuses to provide invoice with breakup of gold weight and charges
- Price significantly lower than market rate for same purity
- Hallmark appears faint, smudged, or easily scratches off
- Seller discourages you from testing the jewelry at an assay center
Why choose Kishani for hallmarked jewelry
- 100% BIS-certified gold: Every piece carries authentic hallmarking with clear stamps
- Transparent pricing: Detailed invoices with gold rate, weight, making charges, and GST breakdown
- Verified purity: We source only from BIS-registered manufacturers and conduct in-house checks
- Exchange and buyback policy: Fair valuation based on current gold rates and hallmark certification
- Expert guidance: Our team helps you choose the right purity for your needs—whether investment or daily wear
Pro tip for buyers
Always compare the weight mentioned on the invoice with the actual weight at purchase. Ask the jeweller to weigh the piece in front of you. Small discrepancies are normal due to tag/stone weight, but major differences are red flags.
Understanding making charges
Making charges vary based on design complexity, craftsmanship, and jewelry type. At Kishani, we offer:
- Transparent per-gram or percentage-based charges clearly mentioned on invoice
- Custom design consultations with upfront cost estimates
- Bulk order discounts for wedding or family purchases
Caring for your hallmarked gold
- Store separately in soft cloth pouches to prevent scratches
- Remove jewelry before swimming, bathing, or applying cosmetics
- Clean with mild soap and soft brush; professional cleaning recommended annually
- Get hallmarked jewelry checked every few years for wear and tear, especially for daily-wear pieces
