Last Update:26 October 2024 16:35 IST

To protect consumers, the government mandates certain standards, including a stamp of authenticity.

Know Your Gold: How to Verify Purity and Avoid Counterfeits.

Investing in gold has been a valuable tradition in India for centuries, embodying wealth, prosperity and good fortune. In Indian culture, gold It is often given as a gift during festivals and special occasions. Physical forms of gold investment include jewelry, coins and bars, which can be purchased from banks, jewelers and authorized dealers.

However, due to the risk of counterfeit products, buyers are encouraged to only purchase from reputable sellers. To protect consumers, the government mandates certain standards, including a stamp of authenticity.

What is Hallmarking?

According to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), hallmarking is the accurate assessment and official recording of the precious metal content in jewellery. In India, hallmarking for gold and silver is now mandatory and serves as the official guarantee of purity.

Under the BIS Rules 2018, if a consumer’s marked jewelery is found to have a lower purity than specified, he/she is entitled to compensation of twice the difference in value calculated based on the purity deficit and weight of the product, in addition to testing charges.

Since July 1, 2021, it has been made mandatory for every stamped item to contain a 6-digit HUID (Distinguishing Unique Identity). The distinguishing feature now consists of three identifiers: the BIS logo, purity of the article and HUID; each ensures traceability and authenticity.

Authentication of Hallmarked Jewelery

Consumers can verify hallmarked jewelery by checking the HUID number on the BIS CARE app, available on both Android and iOS. This app provides comprehensive information including the jeweler’s registration number, purity of the product, type and details of the hallmarking centre.

Testing Unmarked Jewelry

If you have unmarked gold, you can have its purity verified at any BIS recognized Assay and Labeling Center (AHC), which provides priority testing services and issues a detailed testing report. This report verifies the purity of your jewelry and can be useful if you decide to sell it.

Gold Purity Test Fees

• For up to 4 items: Rs 200
• For 5 or more items: Rs 45 per item

A list of BIS-recognized AHCs is available on the BIS website under the distinguishing features section. Consumers can have up to 10 pieces tested in mixed batches when bringing jewelry. Tests are carried out in the presence of the consumer to ensure transparency in weighing and evaluation.

Consumers can check detailed instructions Here