BIS Hallmark Certificate Explained: How to Verify Purity

 

When buying gold and silver jewellery in India, ensuring its purity is essential. One of the best ways to confirm the authenticity of your precious metal is by checking the BIS hallmark certificate. This certification guarantees that the metal meets the quality standards set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). In this article, we’ll explore what a BIS hallmark certificate is, how it ensures purity, and how you can verify it before making a purchase.

What is a BIS Hallmark Certificate?

The BIS hallmark certificate is an official document issued by BIS that certifies the purity and authenticity of gold and silver jewellery. This hallmarking system is regulated by the Indian government to protect consumers from fraud and ensure standardisation in the jewellery industry. The certificate confirms that the jewellery has undergone rigorous testing at BIS-recognised assay centres.

How Does the BIS Hallmarking System Work?

The BIS hallmarking system follows a structured process:

1. Jewellery Submission: The jeweller submits the gold or silver item to a BIS-approved hallmarking centre.

2. Purity Testing: The jewellery undergoes laboratory tests to determine its exact purity.

3. Stamping & Certification: If the item meets BIS standards, it is stamped with the hallmark symbols and issued a BIS hallmark certificate.

Components of the BIS Hallmark

A genuine BIS hallmark certificate ensures that your jewellery includes the following marks:

• BIS Logo: A triangular symbol representing the Bureau of Indian Standards.

• Purity Grade: Gold jewellery is stamped with either 22K (916), 18K (750), or 14K (585), indicating its purity level.

• Assay Centre Mark: Identification mark of the BIS-approved hallmarking centre that tested the jewellery.

• Jeweller’s Identification Mark: A unique code that identifies the jeweller who made the product.

• Year of Hallmarking: A letter denoting the year in which the item was certified.

How to Verify the BIS Hallmark Certificate?

Before purchasing any gold or silver jewellery, verifying the BIS hallmark certificate is crucial. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Check the Hallmark Symbols on Jewelry

Closely examine your jewellery for the hallmark symbols mentioned above. Use a magnifying glass if needed to ensure clarity.

2. Use the BIS Care App

The BIS has launched the ‘BIS Care’ app, which allows consumers to verify the authenticity of their BIS hallmark certificate by entering the HUID (Hallmark Unique Identification) number.

3. Ask the Jeweler for the BIS Hallmark Certificate

Always request a copy of the BIS hallmark certificate from the jeweller. Cross-check the certificate details with the hallmark symbols on your jewellery.

4. Visit the BIS Website

The official BIS website provides a search function to verify jewellers and hallmarking centres. Use this tool to confirm the legitimacy of your purchase.

Conclusion

A BIS hallmark certificate is your key to ensuring purity and authenticity when buying gold or silver jewellery in India. By verifying the hallmark symbols, using the BIS Care app, and checking the certificate, you can safeguard your investment against fraud. Always purchase from BIS-certified jewellers to get the best quality and peace of mind.