How to Check Hallmark Symbol on Gold Products?

How to Check Hallmark Symbol on Gold Products?. Gold has long been a preferred form of investment and a symbol of prosperity in Indian households. However, when it comes to purchasing gold, authenticity and purity are key concerns. With increasing awareness and the government's proactive stance on consumer protection, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has made hallmarking mandatory for gold products in India. This hallmark not only confirms the purity of gold but also builds consumer trust. This article explains in detail how to check Hallmark Symbol on Gold Products, what each symbol means, and how to ensure you are buying genuine gold.
What is BIS Hallmarking?
BIS Hallmarking is a certification process implemented by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), a national standards body in India. The hallmark signifies that the gold item has been tested and confirmed for its purity and quality. Gold is tested at a BIS-authorized Assaying and Hallmarking Centre (AHC), and if it meets the required standards, it is stamped with a hallmark. This ensures that the gold product meets the necessary standards as per Indian regulations.
The hallmark provides assurance to consumers that they are purchasing genuine gold that complies with national standards. It also acts as a deterrent against the sale of impure or fake gold items in the market.
Main Parts of a BIS Hallmark Symbol
To properly Check Hallmark Symbol on Gold Products, it is important to understand the components that make up the BIS hallmark symbol. Each part of the hallmark provides critical information about the gold item:

BIS Logo: This is a triangular symbol with a dot inside and represents certification from the Bureau of Indian Standards. It confirms that the gold item has been tested and meets BIS standards.

Purity Grade: The purity of the gold is marked in both carats and fineness. For example:

22K gold is represented by the number 916 (91.6% pure gold).

18K gold is represented by 750 (75.0% pure gold).

14K gold is represented by 585 (58.5% pure gold).

Assaying and Hallmarking Centre’s Identification Mark: This is a unique code that identifies the authorized BIS center where the gold item was tested and hallmarked.

Jeweller’s Identification Mark: This is a code or symbol that identifies the jeweller who manufactured or sold the item. It ensures traceability and accountability.

Year of Marking: The year in which the item was hallmarked is indicated by an alphabetic code (for example, “A” for a specific year), as per BIS guidelines.

Process to Check the Hallmark Symbol on Gold Products
To verify the authenticity of a gold product, follow these easy steps:
Step 1: Locate the Hallmark Symbol The hallmark is usually engraved on a discreet part of the jewellery. For example, rings have it on the inner band, bangles may have it on the inside surface, and necklaces typically on the clasp. Carefully inspect the item for this mark.
Step 2: Examine All Five Components Ensure that all five elements mentioned above—BIS logo, purity in carat/fineness, hallmarking centre code, jeweller’s identification mark, and year code—are present on the gold item. Missing elements may indicate that the product is not hallmarked.
Step 3: Match Purity Grade Check whether the purity marking (e.g., 916 for 22K) matches what the seller claims. This step is crucial, as incorrect purity claims can result in financial losses.
Step 4: Use the BIS Care App Download the BIS Care App on your smartphone, available on both Android and iOS platforms. You can either enter or scan the 6-digit alphanumeric Hallmark Unique ID (HUID) to verify:

The registered jeweller

The hallmarking centre

The product's purity and certification

This is one of the most reliable ways to confirm the authenticity of hallmarked gold products.
Step 5: Request Information from the Seller If you’re unsure about any part of the hallmark, do not hesitate to ask the jeweller for clarification. Genuine and BIS-certified jewellers will readily provide documentation or certification to validate their products.
Common Myths About BIS Hallmarking
There are several myths around gold hallmarking that mislead consumers. Let’s address them:
Myth 1: Hallmarking Confirms 100% Purity Truth: While hallmarking ensures that the gold meets a minimum purity level (such as 916 for 22K), it does not guarantee the item is 100% pure. Trace amounts of other metals may still be present.
Myth 2: All Gold Jewellery is Hallmarked Truth: Not all gold products are hallmarked. That’s why you should always buy from a BIS-certified jeweller and verify the hallmark before purchase.
Myth 3: Hallmarking is an Expensive Process Truth: Hallmarking charges are minimal and regulated by the government. It does not significantly affect the overall cost of the jewellery.
Importance of BIS Hallmark Registration
The Hallmark Symbol on Gold Products is not just a visual mark; it is a sign of regulatory compliance and consumer protection. Here's why BIS Registration is important:

It protects consumers from fraud, ensuring they receive gold of certified purity. In case of disputes, it serves as a valid proof of quality.

The hallmark provides all essential details—purity, jeweller identity, and certification centre—enabling full transparency in the gold trade.

Jewellers who sell hallmarked products comply with national rules. This builds consumer trust and ensures fair trade practices.

How Do Jewellers Get a BIS Hallmark License?
Jewellers must follow a detailed procedure to obtain a BIS license for hallmarking:
Step 1: Application Submission They must submit an application on the BIS portal with required documents, including Company Registration, GST Certificate, and identity/address proof.
Step 2: Premises Inspection BIS officials visit the jeweller’s store or manufacturing unit to assess whether proper systems and processes are in place to maintain quality and compliance.
Step 3: Approval and License Grant If the premises pass the inspection, BIS issues a license that allows the jeweller to sell hallmarked gold items.
How to Check BIS Hallmark Logo Online?
Consumers can also confirm the legitimacy of a jeweller or hallmarking center through the official BIS website:

Visit www.bis.gov.in

Go to the “Product Certification” section

Select “Jeweller Registration Details”

Enter the jeweller’s name or location

Review their registration status and license number

This is another reliable way to verify before making a purchase.
Benefits of Buying Hallmarked Gold and Silver

The main benefit of buying hallmarked products is the guarantee of purity. You receive what the jeweller promises, and the product complies with national standards.

Hallmarked gold jewellery fetches a better resale value in the market because of its authenticity. It also ensures a smoother exchange process when trading in old jewellery.

Buying BIS-certified products reduces the chances of disputes or fraud. In case of quality issues, consumers can file complaints with supporting proof.

When you check Hallmark Symbol on Gold Products, it provides assurance that you’re making a secure investment.

Conclusion
Checking the Hallmark Symbol on Gold Products is a necessary step for anyone looking to invest in or purchase gold. Knowing each element of the BIS hallmark, verifying the jeweller’s credentials, and using the BIS Care app for confirmation are smart practices that every consumer should adopt. Always buy gold from BIS-registered jewellers and never compromise on hallmark verification. This ensures that your gold is not just beautiful and valuable, but also authentic and compliant with Indian standards.
For professional assistance in BIS Hallmark Registration, contact Compliance Calendar LLP. Whether you’re a consumer wanting to stay informed or a jeweller aiming to get BIS-registered, the team at Compliance Calendar LLP is here to help you at every step you can connect with the experts through email info@ccoffice.in or Call/Whatsapp at +91 9988424211.
FAQs
Q1. What is a Hallmark Symbol on Gold Products? 
Ans. A hallmark symbol is a certification mark embossed on gold products to indicate their purity and authenticity. It is provided by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and includes key components such as the BIS logo, purity grade, and identification marks of the jeweller and the hallmarking centre.
Q2. Where can I find the hallmark symbol on gold jewellery? 
Ans. The hallmark is generally engraved on a non-prominent area of the jewellery piece. For example, rings have it on the inner band, while chains and necklaces have it near the clasp. Carefully inspect the item to locate all five hallmark components.
Q3. How do I verify the hallmark symbol online? 
Ans. You can verify the hallmark using the BIS Care App. Download the app, scan or enter the Hallmark Unique ID (HUID), and the app will show all relevant details such as purity level, jeweller name, and hallmarking centre.
Q4. Is it mandatory for all gold jewellery to be hallmarked? 
Ans. Yes, as per recent BIS regulations, hallmarking is mandatory for gold jewellery in India. However, some older pieces or those bought from uncertified jewellers may not carry the hallmark.
Q5. What is the cost of hallmarking gold jewellery? 
Ans. Hallmarking charges are minimal and regulated by the BIS. They are usually borne by the jeweller and do not significantly impact the overall price of the gold item.
Q6. Can I trust all jewellers who claim to sell hallmarked gold? 
Ans. No, you should always verify the jeweller’s BIS registration through the BIS website or BIS Care App. This ensures you are purchasing from an authentic and certified source.
Q7. What should I do if I find a gold item without a hallmark? 
Ans. Avoid purchasing such items. Always insist on hallmarked gold and ask the jeweller to provide proof of BIS certification. If needed, file a complaint with BIS or a consumer court to address fraudulent practices.

Gold has long been a preferred form of investment and a symbol of prosperity in Indian households. However, when it comes to purchasing gold, authenticity and purity are key concerns. With increasing awareness and the government's proactive stance on consumer protection, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has made hallmarking mandatory for gold products in India. This hallmark not only confirms the purity of gold but also builds consumer trust. This article explains in detail how to check Hallmark Symbol on Gold Products, what each symbol means, and how to ensure you are buying genuine gold.

What is BIS Hallmarking?

BIS Hallmarking is a certification process implemented by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), a national standards body in India. The hallmark signifies that the gold item has been tested and confirmed for its purity and quality. Gold is tested at a BIS-authorized Assaying and Hallmarking Centre (AHC), and if it meets the required standards, it is stamped with a hallmark. This ensures that the gold product meets the necessary standards as per Indian regulations.

The hallmark provides assurance to consumers that they are purchasing genuine gold that complies with national standards. It also acts as a deterrent against the sale of impure or fake gold items in the market.

Main Parts of a BIS Hallmark Symbol

To properly Check Hallmark Symbol on Gold Products, it is important to understand the components that make up the BIS hallmark symbol. Each part of the hallmark provides critical information about the gold item:

BIS Logo: This is a triangular symbol with a dot inside and represents certification from the Bureau of Indian Standards. It confirms that the gold item has been tested and meets BIS standards.
Purity Grade: The purity of the gold is marked in both carats and fineness. For example:

22K gold is represented by the number 916 (91.6% pure gold).
18K gold is represented by 750 (75.0% pure gold).
14K gold is represented by 585 (58.5% pure gold).

Assaying and Hallmarking Centre’s Identification Mark: This is a unique code that identifies the authorized BIS center where the gold item was tested and hallmarked.
Jeweller’s Identification Mark: This is a code or symbol that identifies the jeweller who manufactured or sold the item. It ensures traceability and accountability.
Year of Marking: The year in which the item was hallmarked is indicated by an alphabetic code (for example, “A” for a specific year), as per BIS guidelines.

Process to Check the Hallmark Symbol on Gold Products

To verify the authenticity of a gold product, follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Locate the Hallmark Symbol The hallmark is usually engraved on a discreet part of the jewellery. For example, rings have it on the inner band, bangles may have it on the inside surface, and necklaces typically on the clasp. Carefully inspect the item for this mark.

Step 2: Examine All Five Components Ensure that all five elements mentioned above—BIS logo, purity in carat/fineness, hallmarking centre code, jeweller’s identification mark, and year code—are present on the gold item. Missing elements may indicate that the product is not hallmarked.

Step 3: Match Purity Grade Check whether the purity marking (e.g., 916 for 22K) matches what the seller claims. This step is crucial, as incorrect purity claims can result in financial losses.

Step 4: Use the BIS Care App Download the BIS Care App on your smartphone, available on both Android and iOS platforms. You can either enter or scan the 6-digit alphanumeric Hallmark Unique ID (HUID) to verify:

The registered jeweller
The hallmarking centre
The product's purity and certification

This is one of the most reliable ways to confirm the authenticity of hallmarked gold products.

Step 5: Request Information from the Seller If you’re unsure about any part of the hallmark, do not hesitate to ask the jeweller for clarification. Genuine and BIS-certified jewellers will readily provide documentation or certification to validate their products.

Common Myths About BIS Hallmarking

There are several myths around gold hallmarking that mislead consumers. Let’s address them:

Myth 1: Hallmarking Confirms 100% Purity Truth: While hallmarking ensures that the gold meets a minimum purity level (such as 916 for 22K), it does not guarantee the item is 100% pure. Trace amounts of other metals may still be present.

Myth 2: All Gold Jewellery is Hallmarked Truth: Not all gold products are hallmarked. That’s why you should always buy from a BIS-certified jeweller and verify the hallmark before purchase.

Myth 3: Hallmarking is an Expensive Process Truth: Hallmarking charges are minimal and regulated by the government. It does not significantly affect the overall cost of the jewellery.

Importance of BIS Hallmark Registration

The Hallmark Symbol on Gold Products is not just a visual mark; it is a sign of regulatory compliance and consumer protection. Here's why BIS Registration is important:

It protects consumers from fraud, ensuring they receive gold of certified purity. In case of disputes, it serves as a valid proof of quality.
The hallmark provides all essential details—purity, jeweller identity, and certification centre—enabling full transparency in the gold trade.
Jewellers who sell hallmarked products comply with national rules. This builds consumer trust and ensures fair trade practices.

How Do Jewellers Get a BIS Hallmark License?

Jewellers must follow a detailed procedure to obtain a BIS license for hallmarking:

Step 1: Application Submission They must submit an application on the BIS portal with required documents, including Company Registration, GST Certificate, and identity/address proof.

Step 2: Premises Inspection BIS officials visit the jeweller’s store or manufacturing unit to assess whether proper systems and processes are in place to maintain quality and compliance.

Step 3: Approval and License Grant If the premises pass the inspection, BIS issues a license that allows the jeweller to sell hallmarked gold items.

How to Check BIS Hallmark Logo Online?

Consumers can also confirm the legitimacy of a jeweller or hallmarking center through the official BIS website:

Visit www.bis.gov.in
Go to the “Product Certification” section
Select “Jeweller Registration Details”
Enter the jeweller’s name or location
Review their registration status and license number

This is another reliable way to verify before making a purchase.

Benefits of Buying Hallmarked Gold and Silver

The main benefit of buying hallmarked products is the guarantee of purity. You receive what the jeweller promises, and the product complies with national standards.
Hallmarked gold jewellery fetches a better resale value in the market because of its authenticity. It also ensures a smoother exchange process when trading in old jewellery.
Buying BIS-certified products reduces the chances of disputes or fraud. In case of quality issues, consumers can file complaints with supporting proof.
When you check Hallmark Symbol on Gold Products, it provides assurance that you’re making a secure investment.

Conclusion

Checking the Hallmark Symbol on Gold Products is a necessary step for anyone looking to invest in or purchase gold. Knowing each element of the BIS hallmark, verifying the jeweller’s credentials, and using the BIS Care app for confirmation are smart practices that every consumer should adopt. Always buy gold from BIS-registered jewellers and never compromise on hallmark verification. This ensures that your gold is not just beautiful and valuable, but also authentic and compliant with Indian standards.

For professional assistance in BIS Hallmark Registration, contact Compliance Calendar LLP. Whether you’re a consumer wanting to stay informed or a jeweller aiming to get BIS-registered, the team at Compliance Calendar LLP is here to help you at every step you can connect with the experts through email info@ccoffice.in or Call/Whatsapp at +91 9988424211.

FAQs

Q1. What is a Hallmark Symbol on Gold Products?

Ans. A hallmark symbol is a certification mark embossed on gold products to indicate their purity and authenticity. It is provided by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and includes key components such as the BIS logo, purity grade, and identification marks of the jeweller and the hallmarking centre.

Q2. Where can I find the hallmark symbol on gold jewellery?

Ans. The hallmark is generally engraved on a non-prominent area of the jewellery piece. For example, rings have it on the inner band, while chains and necklaces have it near the clasp. Carefully inspect the item to locate all five hallmark components.

Q3. How do I verify the hallmark symbol online?

Ans. You can verify the hallmark using the BIS Care App. Download the app, scan or enter the Hallmark Unique ID (HUID), and the app will show all relevant details such as purity level, jeweller name, and hallmarking centre.

Q4. Is it mandatory for all gold jewellery to be hallmarked?

Ans. Yes, as per recent BIS regulations, hallmarking is mandatory for gold jewellery in India. However, some older pieces or those bought from uncertified jewellers may not carry the hallmark.

Q5. What is the cost of hallmarking gold jewellery?

Ans. Hallmarking charges are minimal and regulated by the BIS. They are usually borne by the jeweller and do not significantly impact the overall price of the gold item.

Q6. Can I trust all jewellers who claim to sell hallmarked gold?

Ans. No, you should always verify the jeweller’s BIS registration through the BIS website or BIS Care App. This ensures you are purchasing from an authentic and certified source.

Q7. What should I do if I find a gold item without a hallmark?

Ans. Avoid purchasing such items. Always insist on hallmarked gold and ask the jeweller to provide proof of BIS certification. If needed, file a complaint with BIS or a consumer court to address fraudulent practices.