What Is BIS Hallmarking and Why Does It Matter?

BIS hallmarking is a purity certification system for gold and silver jewellery operated by the Bureau of Indian Standards under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution.

Why Hallmarking Exists

Before mandatory hallmarking, consumers had no reliable way to verify the purity of gold or silver articles they purchased. The hallmarking system was introduced to protect consumers from under-karating — the practice of selling lower-purity gold at higher-purity prices.

How It Works

Jewellers submit their articles to a BIS-authorized hallmarking centre (also called an Assaying & Hallmarking Centre). The centre conducts scientific testing — primarily through XRF spectrometry — to verify the purity. Articles that meet the declared purity standard are stamped with the BIS hallmark, which includes:

1. BIS logo — the triangular symbol of the Bureau of Indian Standards
2. Purity / Fineness — a number indicating the proportion of pure metal (e.g. 916 for 22K gold)
3. HUID — a six-digit alphanumeric Hallmark Unique Identification Number

Mandatory Hallmarking

As of June 2021, hallmarking became mandatory for gold jewellery in India. Jewellers with an annual turnover above the prescribed threshold must sell only hallmarked gold jewellery. The mandate was implemented in phases, initially covering select districts and gradually extending nationwide.

Why It Matters for Jewellers

Hallmarking ensures a level playing field. Jewellers who maintain high purity standards benefit from the trust and credibility that hallmarking provides, while consumers gain confidence in their purchases.