How to Check the Hallmark on Gold: Easy Methods

Ever wonder whether the gold that you just purchased is completely pure? In a market full of sparkling jewellery, how can you be sure you’re not spending your cash on something synthetic? Gold has long been regarded as an indication of wealth and prosperity in India, but the same trait also makes it a subject of adulteration and deceit. 

Even the most trusted jewellers or big brand names don’t promise authenticity, and many buyers leave it up to the jeweller to tell them whether what they were sold was real.

To protect the interests of consumers, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has made hallmarking of all gold by dealers in India compulsory. This states that jewellers are allowed to sell gold only with the 6-digit Hallmarking Unique Identification Number (HUID) to indicate the purity and authenticity of the gold article.

So, as a buyer, how do you find out whether the gold you purchased is actually hallmarked? Here’s how to verify the hallmarks of gold and safeguard your investment.

What is the Hallmark of Gold?

As per the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), Hallmark is ‘the accurate determination and official recording of the proportionate content of precious metal in the jewellery/artefacts or bullion/coins’. In India, Hallmarking started in April 2000. Know the difference between hallmark and KDM.

Since June 23, 2021, the Government of India has made hallmarking mandatory in 256 districts of the country, having at least one assaying and hallmarking centre. This hallmarking is mandatory for 14,18, and 22 carats of gold jewellery/artefacts. In September 2023, the government introduced the third phase of this mandatory hallmarking by issuing the Hallmarking of Gold Jewellery and Gold Artifacts (Third Amendment) Order 2023. As per this order, mandatory hallmarking will be done in 55 new districts, taking the total count to 343 districts in the country.

Hallmarking involves obtaining registration from the Bureau of Indian Standards, the sole agency allowed to operate the Hallmarking Scheme in India. It also requires Assaying and Marking (A&H) by BIS-recognised A&H or testing centres. After testing, the BIS issues a unique 6-digit alphanumeric code called the Hallmarking Unique Identification number.

Following the introduction of the six-digit alphanumeric code in July 2021, the three marks for gold jewellery/artefacts followed by the BIS are a BIS logo, purity/fineness symbol, and a six-digit alphanumeric code.

• BIS logo - The BIS logo is symbolised by a triangle. It means that the purity of the jewellery has been verified in one of the licensed labs of BIS.
• Purity/Fineness - This mark stands for the purity of gold used in making the jewellery. As gold comes in varying grades of purity, it is important for a customer and is a healthy business practice to be fair and transparent. The purity mark enables customers to know that they are getting the jewellery of a specified purity level.
• 6-digit alphanumeric code - This is the Hallmark Unique Identification number or HUID, which is a mandatory mark on gold jewellery, particularly at the time of sale. The HUID number is given at a BIS-certified Assaying and Hallmark centre. It offers a distinct identity to gold jewellery and also makes it traceable. 

The standard hallmark engraved on the gold jewellery should have the following:

The BIS logo:

The logo is triangular in shape and assures that the gold article has been produced in a facility with BIS certification. A BIS logo indicates that the gold meets the quality standards.

Caratage or Gold Purity Indicator:

If you check the price of gold today, you will notice different rates are mentioned for 24K gold and 22K gold, etc. This indicates the purity of gold. The purest form of gold is 24 carats, which is 99.99% pure. Most jewellery in India is made of purity between 14K and 22K. Thus, the figures 22K916 stamped on the gold indicate that the article is made of 22K gold or has a gold content of 91.6%. The figure 14K585 indicates that the article is made of 58.5% gold, while the remaining consists of other metals.

A Six-Digit Alphanumeric HUID:

This is a unique 6-digit alphanumeric code on each article of gold sold. Prior to April 01, 2023, there was only a four-digit code. The new regulations in place make a six-digit HUID mandatory, making it possible to trace the gold article to the original jeweller who has hallmarked it and the original assaying centre. As a customer, you can download and use the BIS Care App to help verify the HUID. The Verify HUID option allows you to enter the HUID number. If the number is genuine, it will be reflected in the app.

How to Use the BIS Care App

Here’s how you can download and use the app -

Step 1: Download and Install

1. Open the App Store: Go to the Google Play Store on Android devices or the Apple App Store on iOS devices.
2. Search for the App: Type "BIS Care App" in the search bar.
3. Download and Install: Select the app from the search results and tap "Install" to download and install it.

Step 2: Register/Login

1. Open the App: Once installed, open the BIS Care App.
2. Register: Enter your name, mobile number, and email address.
3. Verify OTP: Receive and enter the OTP sent to your mobile number and email to complete the registration.

Step 3: Verify HUID

1. Home Screen: On the app's home screen, locate the "Verify HUID" option.
2. Tap on Verify HUID: Select this option to proceed with verifying the hallmarking of your gold jewellery.

Step 4: Enter HUID Number

1. HUID Input Field: You will be directed to a screen where you can enter the HUID number.
2. Enter HUID: Type the six-digit alphanumeric HUID number found on your gold jewellery.
3. Search: Tap the "Search" button to proceed.

Step 5: View Details

Verification Results: The app will display detailed information about the gold jewellery, including:

• Jeweler's Registration Number
• Assaying and Hallmarking Centre (AHC) Details
• AHC Registration Number
• AHC Address
• Article Type
• Date of Hallmarking
• Purity
   

Additional Features of the BIS Care App

• Verify Licence Details: Check the authenticity of products with ISI marks.
• Know Your Standards: Access information on Indian standards and related licenses.
• Complaints: File complaints regarding product quality or misuse of BIS marks.
• Locations of BIS Labs and Offices: Find nearby BIS facilities.

Types of Main Hallmarks

There are two main types of Hallmarks on gold jewellery as follows:

Stamps: The traditional type of hallmarking, stamps were put on gold jewellery as a way of Hallmarking. However, it wasn’t the ideal method, as it would cause the jewellery piece to deform if the jewellery was delicate or hollow. Also, if the piece of jewellery was old, it would wear down, and the Hallmark stamp would show on the outside.

Laser: A modern development over the traditional method of using stamps to hallmark, modern manufacturers now choose laser Hallmark for the purpose. It is superior over stamping, in that it does not disfigure the jewellery. The Hallmark is generally subtle and visible only using a jeweller’s loupe. However, an inherent drawback of this method is, when a piece of jewellery needs sizing. In the process of resizing, the Hallmark can be polished out and needs to be returned to the Assay office to restore the Hallmark.

How to Read Gold Hallmarkings?

Now that we know what hallmarking is and its different components, we should also know how to read a Hallmark on gold. This section is about understanding the purpose of the different components of Hallmarking.

• The BIS logo: The first thing to check on a piece of jewellery is the BIS logo. The logo will be common on every piece of jewellery, even if it is in pairs or coins. The logo is an assurance that the jewellery piece is certified by BIS, the only agency in India to operate the Hallmark scheme.
• Purity of Gold: The second most important identification mark is the symbol denoting purity/fineness. As gold comes with varying purities, a jeweller needs to specify the purity level of gold used. The Indian Standard on Gold Hallmarkings IS 1417:2016 specifies three grades for hallmarking gold with purities of -
  • 14K
  • 18K
  • 20K
  • 22K
  • 23K
  • 24K

Gold with varying purities is to be interpreted as follows:

14K Gold - Gold with a 14K level of purity (14K585) has 58.5% pure gold and 42% of other metals. Jewellery made from 14K gold is more durable and resilient as it has less pure gold and also costs less than pure gold jewellery.

18K Gold - A jewellery piece made from 18K gold (18K750) contains 75% gold, with an alloy making up the remaining 25%.

20K Gold - As the content of pure gold in a piece of jewellery increases, the symbolic number also increases. So, jewellery with 20K gold has 83.3% gold and 16.7% alloy. It was popularly used for vintage jewellery earlier.

22K Gold - Also given as 22K916, 916 gold has 91.6% pure gold, with the balance as an alloy comprising other metals.

23K Gold - Gold with 23K purity contains 95.8% pure gold.

24K Gold - 24K gold is the finest and purest form of gold and the item is made from 99.9% pure gold.

6-digit alphanumeric HUID: This is a unique alphanumeric code on every piece of jewellery. As a customer you will need this in the event of complaints as regards the Hallmarking.

Red Flags: Signs of a Fake Hallmark

Even with hallmarking in place, counterfeit gold still circulates in the market. Here are some common signs that can help you spot a fake hallmark:

• Blurred or Uneven Markings: Genuine hallmarks are crisp and clear. Fake hallmarks often appear smudged, blurry, or unevenly stamped.
• Missing Elements: A legitimate hallmark will always have the BIS logo, purity mark, and HUID number. If any of these elements are absent, it’s a strong indication of fraud.
• Conflicting Signs: The purity mark should match the gold’s overall look. If a piece that appears to be 24K gold is marked as 18K, for example, there might be a problem.
• Strange Markings: If you spot the hallmarking that looks odd than the standard BIS hallmarks, be cautious. Some fraudulent dealers would also add symbols or change the markings.

Here’s a step-by-step flowchart illustrating how to check a hallmark on gold:

1. Look for the BIS Logo → Ensures government-certified authenticity
2. Check the Purity Mark → Confirms gold’s karat value (e.g., 22K, 18K)
3. Verify the HUID Number → A unique 6-digit alphanumeric code
4. Use the BIS Care App → Scan and confirm the gold’s certification
5. Consult a Jeweler (if needed) → Seek expert verification

Importance of Gold Hallmark

To start with, gold comes in several purities, and the naked eye cannot distinguish pure gold from a blend of metals. As there is no standardised way to check purity, customers risk paying huge prices for under-performing gold. That’s where hallmarking becomes relevant. Hallmarking is a BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) mandated certification process; hallmarked gold ensures purity. To both the consumer and the retailer, it offers value, with trust and transparency built into the gold market. Here’s why it matters:

• Resale Value: Hallmarked gold jewellery fetches better resale value as its purity is certified. Its purity will never be challenged at resale, so you can sell without a problem or, at least, without any deduction. For example, a piece of 22K hallmarked jewellery would attract a higher price in the resale market than an item of non-hallmarked jewellery.
• Gold Loans: Financial Organisations provide high amounts of loans against the hallmarked gold. Its purity is guaranteed, so lenders do not hesitate to sanction loans at favourable interest rates. Banks value the purity of the gold when lending it against; hence, a person with hallmarked gold will get a much higher loan value from lenders compared to a person with unmarked gold.
• Consumer Protection: It serves as protection for consumers, who can file legal cases if the gold is misrepresented. If a buyer finds that a hallmarked piece is not of the purity marked on it, they could lodge a complaint with both consumer forums and BIS for redressal. This makes sure that the jewellers are ethical and do not rip off the customers.
• Confidence in Buying and Recycling: Customers can buy gold without any doubt because its purity can be determined through the hallmark. This applies to recycling, too — jewellers can melt down and used hallmarked pieces without additional testing, which is why they will happily take your old jewellery when you are selling it for a new design.

What to Do if You Suspect Fake Gold

It can be incredibly upsetting to find out your gold is not real, but taking the proper steps can get you on the right track to a solution. These are the actionable steps you can take if you suspect fake gold, allowing you to protect your rights and recover your loss.

Contact the Jeweller

If you also become convinced that the gold you bought is not real, the first step is to contact the jeweller. Show them any proof of purchase (the bill or certificate of authenticity) and let them know your concerns. Many reputable jewellers should work with you to resolve the issue, either with their own assessment or offering a refund or exchange.

Get a Professional Assessment

If you're unsure if the gold is fake, you should go to a certified gold assayer or testing centre to have it checked. These experts employ methods such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF) or acid testing to accurately gauge the purity of the gold. If the hallmark seems questionable, you can also get it verified at a BIS-recognised hallmarking centre.

File a Complaint with BIS and Consumer Protection Authorities

If you test the gold and find that it is impure, and if the jeweller does not take any responsibility, then you can take some steps. Log in to the Bureau of Indian Standards and register a complaint online as it is the body that monitors the hallmarking of gold in India. You can also contact consumer protection agencies about fraudulent activity. Many sites allow you to file complaints online so that they can be resolved more quickly.

Seek Legal Advice

If the jeweller maintains its position, consult a lawyer to look at legal recourse. You might be entitled to compensation based on the level of the fraud. It also helps keep fraudulent sellers accountable and protects other potential buyers from falling for their ruse.

Impact of Hallmarking on Gold Loans

Gold loans are a popular financial tool in India, offering quick access to cash by pledging gold as collateral. However, the purity of the gold plays a crucial role in determining the loan amount and eligibility. This is where hallmarking comes into the picture.

1. Increased Loan Eligibility

Banks widely prefer hallmarked gold and non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) because they come with a certified guarantee of purity. Since lenders determine loan amounts based on the weight and purity of the gold, having a hallmark assures them that they are offering a loan against genuine gold.

2. Higher Loan Amounts

Since hallmarking certifies the authenticity and purity of gold, lenders are more confident in offering higher loan amounts. Typically, gold loans are sanctioned at 75% of the gold's market value (as per RBI guidelines). With hallmarked gold, lenders are more likely to offer the maximum loan-to-value (LTV) ratio, ensuring that borrowers receive the best possible amount for their pledged gold.

3. Faster Loan Approvals

Non-hallmarked gold often requires additional purity testing before a loan can be sanctioned, which can delay the loan approval process. Hallmarked gold, on the other hand, does not require extensive verification, allowing borrowers to get their loans processed much faster.

4. Mandatory Requirement for Some Lenders

Certain financial institutions have made hallmarking a mandatory requirement for sanctioning gold loans. Without a valid hallmark, borrowers may either face loan rejection or be offered a lower loan amount due to doubts about the purity of their gold assets.

Conclusion

Gold is a valuable asset, and ensuring its purity is crucial for buyers. A sales receipt confirms the transaction, but only hallmarking guarantees authenticity. Always check for the BIS logo, the purity mark, and the 6-digit HUID when purchasing gold. Additionally, you can verify the hallmark using the BIS Care App for added security. By following these steps, you can confidently invest in genuine gold, safeguarding your wealth for the future.

FAQs

Q1. Is 22k gold the same as 916?

Ans. Yes, 22K gold is the same as 916. The figure 916 denotes the percentage of the purity of gold, which in this case is 91.6% pure gold and 8.4% other metals like copper and silver.

Q2. Is Hallmark 22 or 24 carat? 

Ans. Hallmark is a stamp or symbol that certifies the purity of the gold. The Bureau of Indian Standards affixes it and is generally done for gold articles with higher content of gold such as 24K, 22K, and 18K.

Q3. What is the 6-digit Hallmark on Gold?

Ans. The 6-digit Hallmark on Gold is the Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID) number, a unique number issued at the time of hallmarking at the Assaying & Hallmarking center, where it is hand- stamped.

Q4. How do I check my hallmark Jewellery online?

Ans. To check Hallmark jewellery online, download the BIS CARE app from Google or Apple Play Store. Log in using your name, phone number, and email address. Then, go to the ‘verify HUID’ section. Once here, type the HUID and search. You will get all the HUID details of the gold jewellery you want to purchase.

Q5. Is there a fake hallmark gold?

Ans. Yes, there is such a thing as fake hallmark gold. Unfortunately, scammers can counterfeit hallmarks to make it seem like their jewelry is real gold. 

Here are some things to be aware of:

Fake Hallmark Stamps: Criminals can create fake stamps that resemble real hallmarks.

Mismatched Information: A genuine hallmark will include things like the purity level (karatage) and a jeweler's identification mark. If this information seems inconsistent or is missing, be cautious.

Q6. How can I check my gold hallmark at home?

Ans. Checking a hallmark at home to definitively determine purity is difficult. However, you can examine the hallmark for signs of legitimacy and use an app to verify a specific detail:

Visual Inspection:

• Look closely for the three hallmark elements: BIS logo (triangular), purity mark (carat/fineness), and a six-digit alphanumeric HUID code.
• Ensure the markings are crisp and detailed, not blurry or uneven.
• Check for mismatched information between the purity mark and the overall look/color of the gold.

HUID Code Verification:

It is available only in India and for registered hallmarked items.

• Download the BIS Care App.
• Look for the six-digit HUID code on your gold item.
• Within the app, use the "Verify HUID" function to enter the code.
• If the code is genuine, the app should provide details about the specific gold item.

If you need a definitive answer on purity, it's best to consult a professional jeweler for testing.