Introduction
Buying gold or silver jewelry is a big investment, and the last thing you want is to end up with something fake or impure. That’s where hallmark jewelry comes in. A hallmark is a small official mark engraved on your jewelry to confirm its purity and authenticity.
Whether you’re buying new jewelry or checking an old piece, understanding how to identify these hallmarks can save you from fraud and help you know the true value of your ornament. Here’s a simple guide on how to check for hallmarks in jewelry.
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What Is a Hallmark and Why It Matters
A hallmark is an official certification that guarantees the purity of precious metals like gold, silver, or platinum. It’s issued by a recognized authority after proper testing.
In India, this certification is done by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). Each hallmarked piece of jewelry carries three key elements:
- BIS Logo – indicates that the piece is certified by BIS.
- Purity Mark – shows the fineness or karate value (like 916 for 22K gold).
- HUID Code – a unique identification number that helps trace every piece of hallmarked jewelry.
Checking for these marks ensures that your jewelry is genuine, pure, and worth the price you pay.
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Benefits of Buying Hallmarked Jewelry
- Guaranteed Purity: You know the exact gold or silver content in your jewelry.
- Better Resale Value: Hallmarked pieces are easier to sell and fetch better returns.
- Consumer Protection: Hallmarking is a legal safeguard that ensures transparency.
- Trust and Confidence: You can buy or gift jewelry with complete peace of mind.
Tools You’ll Need to Check Hallmarks
Before you begin, keep these tools ready:
- A magnifying glass or jeweler’s loupe (10x)
- A good light source or flash light
- A clean cloth to wipe the jewelry
- A smartphone camera for zooming in
How to Check for Hallmark in Jewelry: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Find the Hallmark
Hallmarks are usually engraved in discreet spots.
- Rings: Inside the band
- Necklaces and chains: Near the clasp
- Earrings: On the stem or back
- Bangles: Inside surface
- Pendants: On the bail or back side
Wipe the jewelry clean and look closely under good lighting.
Step 2: Identify the BIS Logo
If your jewelry is made in India, you should see a BIS triangular logo. This confirms that the piece has been tested and certified at a BIS-approved center.
Step 3: Read the Purity Mark
Look for a number like 916, 750, or 585 stamped on the jewelry.
- 916 = 22K gold (91.6% pure)
- 750 = 18K gold (75% pure)
- 585 = 14K gold (58.5% pure)
- 925 = Sterling silver (92.5% pure)
If your jewelry only mentions “18K” or “22K,” it’s still a purity indicator in karats.
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Step 4: Check the HUID Code
Every BIS-hallmarked jewelry piece now includes a 6-digit alphanumeric HUID code. You can verify this code using the BIS Care app to confirm if the jewelry is registered and authentic.
Step 5: Spot the Jeweler’s Mark
A jeweler’s or manufacturer’s mark is also engraved to identify the maker. This adds an extra layer of traceability, ensuring you know exactly where your jewelry came from.
What to Do If You Don’t See a Hallmark
If your jewelry doesn’t have a visible hallmark:
- Ask the jeweller for a BIS certificate of authenticity.
- Visit a BIS-authorized hallmarking center for testing.
- Avoid buying expensive jewelry without proper hallmark verification.
Remember, many old or imported pieces might not have hallmarks, so always cross-check before making assumptions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t confuse decorative engravings with hallmarks.
- Avoid buying jewelry that has a hallmark but no HUID code.
- Beware of fake hallmarks that look printed instead of stamped.
- Always buy from BIS-certified jewellers.
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Example of Hallmark Marks and What They Mean
| Mark | Meaning |
| BIS Logo | Jewelry certified by Bureau of Indian Standards |
| 916 | 22K gold (91.6% purity) |
| 750 | 18K gold (75% purity) |
| 925 | Sterling silver (92.5% purity) |
| HUID Code | Unique ID for every BIS-hallmarked jewelry piece |
| Jeweler’s Mark | Identification of the manufacturer |
Final Thoughts
Checking hallmarks is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from fraud when buying jewelry. It helps you confirm metal purity, authenticity, and value — giving you complete confidence in your purchase.
So the next time you buy gold or silver jewelry, take a moment to examine those tiny marks. With the right knowledge, you’ll never have to worry about being misled again.
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