Must-Know Hallmark Symbols Before Buying Gold

We Indians are fond of gold jewellery; it is not just a way to look amazing in special events and occasions, but it is the best investment you can make. Whether it’s jewellery for a wedding or an investment for the future, understanding hallmark symbols can save you from costly mistakes. These tiny symbols or stamps on gold items carry big meaning; they tell you about purity, authenticity, and trust.

This will not only help you choose the right type of gold but also determine the return on investment (ROI). Since it holds so much significance, let’s learn about the hallmark symbols so that you can shop wisely and confidently.

What Is a Hallmark?

Hallmark is an official seal or mark imprinted on gold jewellery or coins. It certifies that the gold meets certain standards of purity and quality. Hallmarking in India is regulated by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), which ensures that you get what you are paying for.

Hallmarking of gold jewellery is now mandatory in India, and any gold jewellery sold by a jeweller must have the BIS hallmark. This means that jewellers are required to sell gold with a 6-digit HUID number.

Key Hallmark Symbols You Should Look For

When you buy hallmarked gold, check for these symbols:

• BIS Logo: A triangular mark with a dot inside representing the Bureau of Indian Standards. This is the official mark from the Bureau of Indian Standards. It confirms that the gold has been tested and certified by a BIS-recognised lab.
• Purity in Karat and Fineness: Indicates the gold’s purity, often represented as “22K916” for 22 karat gold, meaning 91.6% pure gold. Some other marks are 18K750 (75% Purity) and 14K585 (58.5% Purity).
• Jeweller’s Identification: The hallmark also includes a unique alphanumeric code for the jeweller. It identifies the seller and ensures accountability. If there’s ever a dispute, this mark helps trace the source.
• Centre’s Identification: The hallmark also includes the identification mark or number of the Assaying and Hallmarking Centre (AHC) where the gold was tested and certified.
• Hallmarking Unique Identification (HUID): This is a six-digit alphanumeric code unique to each piece of jewellery, introduced in April 2023. It allows consumers to verify the authenticity and details of the item through the BIS Care App. Along with symbols, now gold items also feature the HUID code.

Why Buying Hallmarked Gold Really Matters?

Gold is expensive, and it’s not always easy to tell how pure it is just by looking at it. Without knowing the purity, you may end up paying more than its actual value.

This is where hallmarking comes in. When you see the official mark on a gold item, it means the gold has been tested and certified for purity. This also helps you ensure that you are paying the right price based on the current gold rate.

Here’s why hallmarked jewellery is a smart choice:

• Better resale value: Hallmarked gold usually fetches 100% of its price when sold. But unhallmarked gold? You will probably only get 70-75%.
• Trust and authenticity: BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) hallmarking is a trusted symbol that confirms both the purity of the gold and the credibility of the jeweller.
•  Easier gold loans: As per RBI guidelines, lenders can offer up to 75% of the value of hallmark jewellery as a loan.
• Spot the real deal: Hallmarked jewellery makes it easier to differentiate between genuine and fake jewellery.
• Widely accepted: While some jewellers use their own marks, the BIS hallmark is recognised almost everywhere, making it the safest option.

Some Important tips you must consider while buying Gold

Here are a few tips that you must consider when buying gold:

1. Don’t fall for Stamp

Many jewellers stamp their products with “22K”, but that is not enough. Without the BIS hallmark and other symbols, there is no guarantee of purity. Always ask for the full hallmark with all four symbols.

2. Invoice and Certificate

When you buy hallmarked gold, ask for a detailed invoice mentioning purity and weight and a certificate of hallmarking (if available). Keep in mind that this paperwork protects you in case of resale, exchange, or dispute.

3. Measure the Weight

Before buying gold, make sure to check its actual weight, especially if it has stones. This is because gold jewellery with stones adds to its weight, and you may end up paying more by mistake.

Final Thoughts

Gold may shine, but when it comes to trust, it is the hallmark that shines. Before buying, make sure to look for these tiny marks and HUID. They tell a lot about quality, purity and peace of mind.

So next time you’re at the jewellery store, don’t just admire the design, flip it over and check the hallmark. Your future self will thank you.

On Top Jewelers, you will find the list of the most reputed jewellers in India. So what are you waiting for? 

Visit our website, explore jewellers and jewellery styles, types and items like rings, necklaces, earrings, and more. Choose the perfect handmade, hallmarked and 100% heart-winning jewellery now from Topjewellers.