How to Check Hallmark in Gold at Home

Buying gold is a big investment — whether it’s a chain, ring, or bangles. But how do you know if it’s real and pure? In India, hallmarking is the official guarantee of gold purity, certified by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). The good news: you don’t need to visit a lab to check it. With a few simple steps, you can check hallmark in gold jewellery right at home.

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What is a Gold Hallmark?

A hallmark is an official stamp on gold jewellery that certifies its purity. Since 2021, hallmarking has been made mandatory in India for most gold ornaments.

Every BIS-hallmarked gold piece carries four key symbols.

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The Four Components of BIS Hallmark

1. BIS Logo – a triangle with the BIS mark.
2. Purity/Fineness – e.g., 22K916 (22 karat gold with 91.6% purity).
3. Assaying and Hallmarking Centre’s Mark – where the jewellery was tested.
4. Jeweller’s Identification Mark – the logo/ID of the jeweller.

These marks are usually very small — you’ll need a magnifying glass or phone camera zoom to see them clearly.

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How to Check Hallmark in Gold at Home

1. Visual Inspection with Magnifying Glass

Look for the four hallmark components on the inner side of the ring, clasp of the chain, or backside of earrings.

2. Use the BIS Care Mobile App

• Download BIS Care App (available on Android & iOS).
• Enter the 6-digit Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID) number inscribed on your jewellery.
• The app will instantly show details of purity, jeweller, and hallmarking centre.

3. Check for Purity Code

For gold jewellery, you’ll usually see:

• 22K916 (91.6% purity)
• 18K750 (75.0% purity)
• 14K585 (58.5% purity)

If your jewellery doesn’t carry these numbers, be cautious.

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Mistakes to Avoid

• Assuming weight = purity (they are different).
• Trusting only the jeweller’s word — always check the BIS mark.
• Ignoring the HUID number (new hallmarking system introduced by BIS).

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Pro Tip

Always insist on BIS-hallmarked jewellery with HUID. It’s your legal proof of purity and authenticity.

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FAQ – How to Check Hallmark in Gold at Home

Q1. What does 916 mean in gold?
It means the gold is 91.6% pure (22K). This is the most common purity for jewellery in India.

Q2. Can I check hallmark in gold without an app?
Yes, by visually inspecting the BIS mark, purity stamp, and jeweller ID. But the BIS Care App gives the most reliable verification.

Q3. Is hallmarking mandatory for all gold jewellery in India?
Yes, as per government rules, hallmarking is compulsory for most gold ornaments (with few exceptions like export, watches, or small items).

Q4. What is HUID number in gold hallmark?
HUID is a unique 6-digit alphanumeric code stamped on each hallmarked gold item, allowing digital verification via the BIS Care App.

Q5. How can I verify hallmark authenticity online?
Download the BIS Care App, enter the HUID number, and check official BIS records instantly.