How to Verify Gold Jewellery Authenticity Before Buying

Buying gold jewellery is a significant purchase, and verifying its authenticity is essential. Here is a practical guide to checking that your gold is genuine and correctly hallmarked.

Step 1: Look for the BIS Hallmark

Every piece of hallmarked gold jewellery in India carries three marks:

1. BIS Logo, the triangular symbol of the Bureau of Indian Standards
2. Purity / Fineness Number, indicating the proportion of pure gold (e.g. 916 for 22K, 750 for 18K, 585 for 14K)
3. HUID, a six-digit alphanumeric Hallmark Unique Identification Number

Use a magnifying glass to inspect the inner surface of rings, the clasp area of chains, or the back of pendants. The marks should be clear and well-defined.

Step 2: Verify the HUID Digitally

The most reliable verification method is digital. Use the BIS CARE App (available free on Google Play Store and Apple App Store) to:

• Enter or scan the six-character HUID code
• View the article's tested purity, the hallmarking centre that certified it, and the date of testing
• Confirm the jeweller's BIS registration status

You can also verify via the BIS website or by sending an SMS with the HUID to the designated BIS number.

Step 3: Check the Invoice

A proper invoice from a BIS-registered jeweller should include:

• Gold purity (e.g. 22K / 916)
• Net weight of the gold
• HUID number for each article
• Making charges and GST breakdown
• Jeweller's BIS registration number

If any of these details are missing, ask the jeweller to provide them before completing the purchase.

Step 4: Know the Common Purity Grades

Step 5: Get Independent Testing if in Doubt

If you have concerns about a piece of jewellery, especially older or inherited items, you can submit it directly to a BIS-authorized hallmarking centre for XRF testing. The test is non-destructive and provides an accurate purity reading.

Legal Protection

Since June 2021, selling non-hallmarked gold jewellery is illegal in India. Violations can result in imprisonment of up to one year and fines exceeding Rs. 1,00,000. If you suspect fraud, you can lodge a complaint through the BIS CARE App with photographic evidence.