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# BIS Hallmarking for Gold and Silver Jewelry

BIS hallmarking is now mandatory for gold jewelry across India. The four-component hallmark — BIS logo, purity grade, assay center mark, and jeweler ID — protects consumers and ensures fair trade in precious metals.

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At a glance

Hallmark components

4

Gold grades

4

Registration steps

3

## The four components of BIS hallmark

### BIS Logo

The triangular BIS logo certifies that the item meets BIS standards. This is the primary mark of authenticity.

### Purity Grade

Numerical indication of precious metal content. For gold: 22K916 (91.6% gold), 18K750 (75% gold), 14K585 (58.5% gold). For silver: 999, 970, 925.

### Assay Center Mark

Short code identifying the BIS-recognized assay center that tested and certified the item's purity.

### Jeweler Identification

Unique mark (letters/numbers) identifying the jeweler or manufacturer registered with BIS.

## Gold purity grades explained

GradeFinenessPurityCommon Use

22K91691.6%Traditional jewelry, bridal sets

20K83383.3%High-quality jewelry

18K75075.0%Designer jewelry, international markets

14K58558.5%Fashion jewelry, affordability segment

## Jeweler registration process

01

### Obtain BIS jeweler registration

Apply online through the BIS CARE portal. Submit business registration documents, premises details, and registration fee. BIS issues a unique jeweler identification mark.

02

### Get hallmarking done at BIS-recognized center

Send jewelry items to a BIS-recognized Assaying and Hallmarking Centre (AHC) for testing. The center verifies purity and applies the hallmark.

03

### Maintain records and traceability

Keep detailed records of hallmarking batches, purity certificates, and customer sales. BIS may inspect records during surveillance visits.

## Consumer rights and protections

Every piece of gold jewelry sold in India must bear the BIS hallmark (mandatory from specific dates based on district tier)

Consumers can verify hallmark authenticity using the BIS CARE app by scanning the HUID (Hallmark Unique ID)

If purity is found lower than marked, consumers can claim compensation through BIS or consumer courts

Jewelers must display registration certificate and hallmarking charges prominently

Online jewelry sales must specify hallmark status and provide HUID for each item

## Hallmark Unique ID (HUID) system

01

HUID stands for Hallmark Unique Identification

02

Each hallmarked item receives a unique 6-digit alphanumeric code

03

The HUID is stored in BIS database with complete item details

04

Consumers can verify HUID through BIS CARE app or website

05

HUID enables traceability from manufacturer to end consumer

06

The code is engraved or marked on the jewelry item

## Frequently asked questions

### When did hallmarking become mandatory in India?

Hallmarking became mandatory in phases starting from June 2021. Initially applied to 256 districts, it has now expanded nationwide. The mandatory hallmarking order covers gold jewelry and artifacts. Silver hallmarking is voluntary but encouraged. Check the current notification for your specific district's mandatory date.

### What is the penalty for selling non-hallmarked gold jewelry?

Selling gold jewelry without BIS hallmark in mandatory districts is an offense under the BIS Act 2016. Penalties include fines up to ₹1 lakh for the first offense and up to ₹5 lakh for repeat offenses. Additionally, the jeweler's BIS registration may be suspended or cancelled. Enforcement is carried out by BIS and state legal metrology departments.

### Can imported jewelry be sold in India without hallmarking?

No. All gold jewelry sold in India, whether domestically manufactured or imported, must bear the BIS hallmark in mandatory districts. Importers must get their jewelry hallmarked at BIS-recognized centers before sale. Pre-hallmarked jewelry from countries with mutual recognition agreements may be accepted subject to BIS verification.

### What is the cost of hallmarking?

Hallmarking charges vary by assay center and item type. Typical charges are ₹25-45 per piece for gold jewelry, with minimum charges per batch. Additional charges apply for complex items or special testing. These charges are regulated by BIS and must be displayed prominently at the assay center. Jewelers typically pass these costs to consumers.

### How do I verify if a hallmark is genuine?

Use the BIS CARE mobile app to verify hallmarks. Enter the 6-digit HUID or scan the QR code if available. The app shows item details including purity, assay center, and jeweler information. You can also check online at the BIS website. If verification fails, contact BIS with the HUID and item details for investigation.

**Disclaimer:** This guide reflects the BIS hallmarking regulations under the BIS Act 2016 and related notifications. Mandatory hallmarking dates and district coverage are subject to government notifications. Always verify current requirements with official BIS communications.

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