>
How to Check Hallmark on Gold Jewellery

Gold has always held a special place in our lives, it’s not just a metal but a part of our stories. From wedding ornaments to heirloom bangles passed down through generations, gold symbolises trust, beauty, and emotional value. But when it comes to buying gold, one question always matters — is it pure? That’s where hallmark gold comes in. Understanding and checking hallmarks ensures that every piece you buy carries the authenticity it promises. 

What is Hallmark Gold? 

So, what is hallmark gold, really? 

When you see a BIS hallmark on gold, it means your jewellery has been tested and verified by an authorized centre for its exact purity. Since June 16, 2021, hallmarking has become mandatory across the country. This gives every buyer a sense of confidence and protection from fraud and misrepresentation. 

Simply put, hallmark gold ensures you’re buying the real deal, jewellery made with purity, verified by the BIS.

Gold Hallmarking Process

Stamp Hallmarking

Stamping is the traditional method of hallmarking. Here, the purity and certification marks are physically imprinted on the gold surface using a small press or punch. While this method has stood the test of time, it’s not always ideal for every piece.

For example, if the jewellery is delicate, hollow, or intricately designed, the stamping pressure can sometimes cause slight deformation. Over time, especially in older pieces or thin bands, the mark might also become visible from the other side or fade due to wear. Still, for solid gold ornaments, stamping remains a reliable and widely accepted practice.

Laser Hallmarking

In recent years, laser hallmarking has become increasingly popular among jewellers. It uses a fine laser beam to engrave the hallmark without physically touching or altering the piece, making it perfect for filigree, stone – studded, or designer jewellery. Laser marks are precise, clean, and subtle, preserving the aesthetics of the ornament.

Types of Hallmarks Found on Gold Jewellery

  1. Maker’s Mark – The Creator’s Identity

Think of this as the signature of the jeweller, who made your ornament. Every BIS registered jeweller has a unique identification mark that tells you exactly who crafted your jewellery. It’s a small but important sign of accountability and trust.

  1. Fitness Mark — The Measure of Purity

This is where the science of gold purity comes in. The fitness mark tells you how much real gold is present in the jewellery. For example: 

  • 24 Carat Gold Hallmark (999) — Pure gold
  •  22 Carat Gold Hallmark (916) —   91.6% pure gold, ideal for gold jewellery
  •  18 Carat Gold Hallmark (750) — 75% pure gold, often used in diamond or designer jewellery

So the next time you spot numbers like 916  or 750 on your jewellery, you’ll know exactly what they stand for.

  1. Assay Office Mark — The Purity Checkpoint

Before any piece of gold gets a BIS hallmark, it’s tested at a BIS recognized Assay and Hallmark centre. This symbol shows which certified centre verified your jewellery’s purity. It’s proof that your jewellery has passed official quality checks, not just the jeweller’s word.

  1. Year Mark — The Certification Timeline

The final mark tells you when the piece was tested and certified. It’s usually a small letter or number that denotes the year of hallmarking. This helps you trace when your jewellery officially received its BIS approval.

Each of these marks adds a layer of trust to your gold. Together, they ensure what you’re buying isn’t just beautiful,  but also pure, valuable, and verified.  Because in the world of gold, hallmarks aren’t just marks, they’re your assurance of authenticity. 

Key Elements to Look for in Hallmarked Gold 

Every piece of hallmark gold carries a few vital signs of authenticity that confirms its purity and certification. These marks are issued by hallmarking centres authorized by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) — the official body responsible for verifying and approving gold quality in India. 

When you purchase hallmarked jewellery, here’s what you should always check for: 

  • BIS Mark: A small, triangle shaped BIS logo that represents certification
  •  Purity of Caratage: A number showing the gold’s purity, for example, 22K916 denotes 22 carat gold with 91.6% purity
  • Hallmarking Centre’s ID:  A unique identification number or mark of the certified centre that tested the gold
  • Jeweller’s Identification Mark: The registered mark or code of the jeweller who sold the piece

For added assurance, BIS also advices customers to verify the jeweller’s license details before purchase. 

And when making a purchase, always ask for a clear bill breakdown. This helps you see any hallmarking charges, which the government has capped at just rupees 35 per jewellery item.

How to Identify Genuine Hallmark Gold 

When buying gold jewellery, a few simple checks can help you ensure that your purchase is 100 per cent genuine and hallmarked. Here’s what to look for: 

  1. Verify the BIS hallmark:

The BIS hallmark is the most trusted mark of purity in India. It confirms that your gold has been independently tested and certified by an authorized BIS assaying and hallmarking centre. 

  1. Look for the Four Key Marks:

Genuine hallmark gold will always feature four main symbols, the maker’s mark, the fineness mark, the assay office mark, and the date mark. Together, they guarantee authenticity and purity.

  1. Check the Purity Stamp: 

Along with the BIS hallmark, every piece should carry a quality stamp showing its carat value, for instance, 22K916 OR 18K750. This helps you know exactly what purity you’re paying for.

  1. Assess the Weight:

Real gold has a certain heaviness depending on its carat and size. If your jewellery feels unusually light, it could indicate impurities or an imitation piece. Always have it checked before you buy. 

How to Check Hallmark on Gold

When you buy gold, one of the most important steps is to check the hallmark. This simple check ensures that your jewellery is authentic, pure ,and BIS certified. In India, BIS hallmarked gold carries a few symbols that tell you everything you need to know about its purity and certification. Let’s look at them closely:

  1. The BIS Logo

Start by finding the BIS hallmark symbol, a small triangular logo that represents certification by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). This mark is your first assurance that your jewellery has been officially tested and approved for purity by a government recognised centre. 

  1. Purity or Fitness Mark

Next, look for the purity mark, which shows how much real gold your jewellery contains. This is usually expressed as both carat and fineness:

  • 22K916 means 22 – carat gold with 91.6% purity
  • 18K750 means 18 – carat gold with 75% purity
  •  14K585 means 14 – carat gold with 58.5% purity

The higher the number, the purer the gold. 24 carat gold  hallmark pieces are considered the purest form but are usually too soft for regular jewellery. 

  1. The Six – Digit HUID Code

Every hallmarked gold item now carries a unique six – digit alphanumeric code known as the Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID) number. Introduced by the government in April 2023, this code helps track and verify each individual piece of jewellery. 

To confirm authenticity, you can use the BIS Care App and select the ‘Verify HUID’ to check your jewellery’s purity and certification details instantly. 

Why You Should Always Choose Hallmarked Gold Jewellery

Buying gold is never about the shine, it’s about trust, emotion, and lasting value. Whether it’s a wedding necklace, a small token of love, or an investment for the future, you deserve to know that what you’re buying is real and pure. That’s exactly what hallmark gold assures you. 

A BIS hallmark is  like a stamp of honesty. It tells you that your jewellery has been tested and certified purity by an authorised centre. So, when you see that tiny mark, you can wear your gold with complete confidence, knowing it’s 100% genuine. 

Hallmarked jewellery also works in your favour when it comes to value. If you ever decided to sell or take a loan against your gold, hallmarked pieces fetch a higher return. In fact, according to RBI guidelines, you can get up to 75% of your gold’s value for hallmarked items, a clear advantage over non – hallmarked ones.

Another reason to always check for a BIS hallmark is protection. It helps you avoid fraud or misrepresentation, ensuring that what glitters truly is gold. While some jewellers may have their own markings, the BIS hallmark is the one mark recognised and trusted across India. 

And if you’ve ever been told that hallmarking makes jewellery expensive, don’t worry. The certification charge is minimal, just rupees 35 per item, often already included in the final price. 

So, the next time you buy gold, take a moment to look for that hallmark. It’s a tiny mark that makes a huge difference, giving you purity and value that lasts for generations. 

Conclusion

Gold isn’t just a precious metal, it’s a part of our lives, our memories,and our celebrations. Whether it’s a wedding ring, a festive bangle, or a gift for someone special, every piece of gold holds meaning. That’s why checking the hallmark on gold jewellery is so important.  It’s your assurance that what you’re buying is pure, genuine, and certified by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).

When you take  a moment to verify the BIS hallmark, purity mark, and six digit HUID code, you’re not just being cautious, you’re being wise. These marks protect you from fraud and ensure that every ornament you buy truly reflects the quality and trust it promises. 

In the end, hallmarked gold jewellery gives you complete confidence in your purchase. You know your gold isn’t just beautiful, it’s authentic, valuable, and made to last for generations. Because the real value of gold comes from its authenticity and quality.  

FAQs

  1. How to check gold hallmark online?

You can easily check a gold hallmark by visiting the official Bureau of Indian standards (BIS) website or downloading the BIS Care app. Simply enter the Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID) number mentioned on your gold item. The system will display the registered details, confirming its purity and authenticity. 

  1. How do I check the gold serial or HUID number?

Every hallmarked gold ornament carries a unique HUID number, which acts like a  serial code. You can verify this number through the BIS Care app or the BIS website by entering it in the search field. The system will display the details of purity, weight, and registered jeweller. 

  1. How can I identify 916 gold?

The term “916 gold” refers to 22-karat gold, meaning it contains 91.6% pure gold. To recognize it, look for a hallmark stamp that includes the BIS logo followed by the number 916. This mark guarantees the purity of the metal and is usually found on the inner or hidden part of the jewellery piece. 

  1. What does the hallmark code on gold represent?

A standard hallmark gold includes several identifiers — the BIS logo, the purity grade (like 22K or 18K represented as 916 or 750), the jeweller’s identification mark, and the HUID number. Together, these symbols certify that the gold item has been tested and approved by the BIS for purity and authenticity. 

Latest Blogs
Sterling Silver vs Pure Silver: What’s the Difference? 
Silver has always had a way of making everything it touches look effortlessly beautiful. At Jos Alukkas - where timeless craftsmanship meets modern elegance, silver jewellery really has a sort of quiet status in just about any collection. But here’s a question a lot of buyers keep in the background… is sterling silver the same thing as pure silver? That answer might be a bit of a twist. Let's go through it, not too complicated, fairly clear, and I mean once and for all. What Is Pure Silver? Fine silver, also called pure silver, is pretty much one of the rarest and most lovely metals you can find in nature, but it might not be smart to wear it all the time. It is basically 99.9% silver, and 0.1% has traces of other materials, so yeah there’s that.-Too soft and fragile for everyday jewellery use.-Scratches, bends, and loses shape very easily.-Best suited for investment bullion, coins, or decorative collectibles. What Is Sterling Silver? It is an elegant metal, and also durable, because sterling silver can be considered the standard for the silver jewelry in the whole world. The main characteristic of the sterling silver is that this metal is man-made, and its composition is 92.5 percent of silver, and 7.5 percent of other alloys such as copper. -The 92.5% silver content retains that signature glossy, brilliant shine. -Added copper increases strength and resistance to damage. -Far more practical and long-lasting for daily-wear silver jewellery. Sterling Silver vs Pure Silver: The Main Differences in Silver Jewellery Now that we know what each metal is, here's a clear, side-by-side look at how they truly differ from each other in real-world use. Composition :- Pure silver is 99.9% silver; sterling silver is 92.5% silver + 7.5% copper alloy Durability :- Pure silver scratches and bends easily; sterling silver is significantly stronger and more damage-resistant Jewellery suitability :- Pure silver is unsuitable for wearable jewellery; sterling silver is the industry standard for rings, necklaces, and bracelets Appearance :- Both share a similar bright, reflective shine; sterling silver maintains it far longer with regular wear Tarnishing :- Pure silver tarnishes slowly; sterling silver may tarnish faster but is easy to clean and restore Buy Silver Online at Jos Alukkas: The Smartest Way to Shop Today the smartest silver shoppers basically know where to go, and it feels easier than before to buy silver online without losing quality, trust, or craftsmanship. At Jos Alukkas, We bring South India’s most admired silver jewellery assortment straight to your fingertips - certified, well crafted and delivered safely, to your doorstep. -Browse an exclusive range of sterling silver jewellery - rings, necklaces, bracelets, and more -Every piece certified for 92.5% pure silver composition and quality -Transparent pricing, easy returns, and trusted delivery across India. FAQ's Which is better for jewellery, sterling silver or pure silver? Sterling silver is better for jewellery because it is stronger, more durable, and better suited for everyday wear. How can I identify sterling silver jewellery?Sterling silver jewellery is typically marked with a 925 stamp, indicating it contains 92.5% pure silver. What is the main difference between sterling silver and pure silver?The main difference is composition: pure silver contains 99.9% silver, while sterling silver contains 92.5% silver alloy. Does sterling silver lose its shine over time? Sterling silver may tarnish over time, but regular cleaning easily restores its shine and keeps it looking beautiful. What exactly is sterling silver?Sterling silver is a durable alloy made of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. What is the difference in value between sterling silver and pure silver?Pure silver has higher silver content, while sterling silver offers greater durability, making it more practical for jewelry.
May 31, 2026
How to Choose a Diamond Ring for Your Proposal 
A proposal lasts for a few unforgettable moments, but the ring becomes a memory that stays forever. That is exactly why choosing the perfect diamond ring often feels emotional, exciting, and sometimes even confusing. With so many styles, diamond shapes, and designs available today, how do you find the one that truly feels right? Jos Alukkas is one of those trusted names that offers beautifully crafted diamond jewellery, helping make every proposal moment even more special. The answer is not always about choosing the biggest diamond or the most expensive design. Instead, it is about selecting a ring that matches your partner’s tastes, interests, and the journey you share together. Start By Understanding Their Style Before searching for any collection, you should notice the jewels worn by your partner. Do they like jewellery with simple designs or eye-catching? Do they like classical jewels or contemporary ones? This is a little detail that will definitely make your work much easier, and it is important because the right choice of the diamond ring will be even more valuable to them if it perfectly suits their taste. The Diamond Matters More Than You Think A lot of people would automatically consider the diamond size first, but there is no denying that sparkle and brilliance matter even more than the size. The cutting of the diamond is one of the primary factors that contribute to its shine. Other features such as clarity, colour, and weight affect the look of the ring as well. Knowing these facts will make your selection of diamond rings more elegant than costly. Choosing The Right Setting Changes Everything The setting of a ring can completely transform its appearance. Solitaire rings continue to remain popular because of their timeless and sophisticated appeal. However, halo settings, vintage-inspired patterns, and sleek modern styles are also becoming favourites among couples today. The right setting should enhance the beauty of the diamond naturally without making the design feel overly complicated. A balanced design often feels more luxurious and wearable over time. Why More People Prefer To Buy Diamond Ring Online Many consumers now opt to shop for their diamond rings online because it provides more comfort when comparing various ring styles, prices, and even diamonds. Consumers can easily identify trends through their computer screens and perhaps find more styles than what they could see at their nearby stores. In fact, online shopping is very helpful for new shoppers. Designed For Effortless Wear A proposal ring is usually worn every single day. This is why comfort should never be ignored while selecting diamond jewellery. Rings with balanced structures and wearable designs often feel more practical for long-term use. Modern buyers are increasingly choosing jewellery that feels elegant without becoming too heavy or difficult to wear regularly. A Ring That Becomes Part Of Your Story At the end of the day, the perfect diamond ring is not simply about trends, pricing, or appearance. It is about emotion. It becomes part of your story, your memories, and one of the most important moments of your life. When chosen thoughtfully, a beautiful diamond ring becomes far more than jewellery. It becomes a symbol of love that continues long after the proposal itself. FAQs 1.What should I consider when buying a diamond engagement ring? When buying a diamond engagement ring, you should consider the 4Cs of diamonds (cut, clarity, colour, and carat), your partner’s style, ring design, budget, and comfort for daily wear. A good diamond ring should balance beauty, durability, and personal meaning. 2. Is it better to buy a certified diamond ring? Yes, it is always better to buy a certified diamond ring. Certification from trusted labs ensures the authenticity, quality, and value of the diamond jewellery. It also gives you confidence about what you are paying for and helps with resale value in the future. 3. How to choose the perfect proposal ring? To choose the perfect proposal ring, focus on your partner’s taste, lifestyle, and jewellery preferences. Think about whether they like simple or detailed designs. A meaningful diamond ring is not just about appearance, but about how well it reflects your partner’s personality and your shared story. 4. What is the 4 diamond rule? The 4 diamond rule refers to the 4Cs of diamonds: Cut Clarity Colour Carat These four factors determine the overall quality and beauty of a diamond. Understanding this rule helps you choose better diamond jewellery and make an informed decision when you buy diamond ring online or in-store. 5. What are the most popular ring designs in 2026? In 2026, popular designs include solitaire rings, halo settings, hidden halo designs, vintage-inspired rings, and minimal modern bands. Simple yet elegant diamond ring designs are especially trending because they suit both daily wear and special occasions. 6. Which diamond cut is best for an engagement ring? The round brilliant cut is considered the most popular and best diamond cut for an engagement ring because of its maximum sparkle. However, princess, oval, and cushion cuts are also widely preferred depending on personal style and design choice in diamond jewellery.
May 29, 2026
Why Silver Prices Are Increasing in India
Have you visited a jewelry store recently and wondered - why does silver suddenly feel as precious as gold? You are not imagining it. Across India, silver prices have been climbing at a pace that's leaving buyers surprised and jewelers scrambling. At Jos Alukkas, we believe every customer deserves the truth behind the price tag, not just a number. So before you make your next silver purchase, here is the real story unfolding behind the scenes. And trust us, once you understand it, you will never look at a silver piece the same way again. The Green Revolution Is Quietly Eating Up the World's Silver Here's something most people don't know, the silver in your bracelet today may have been competing with a solar panel or an electric vehicle for its existence. -Solar panels consume millions of kilograms of silver annually. -EVs use silver in batteries, sensors, and chargers. -Smartphones and 5G networks run on silver components.The whole world is going green, and silver is becoming its main metal. Many industries which never gave a second thought about silver are now its largest consumers, pushing up its demand to record highs. The World Is Running Short - And Nobody's Talking About It What happens when the world needs more silver than it can produce? Prices rise - and they do not come back down easily. -Aging mines make silver extraction harder and costlier. -New silver discoveries have slowed down significantly. -Annual consumption consistently exceeds global mine production.This isn't a temporary blip. It is a structural supply deficit that experts believe could deepen over the next decade. Every gram of silver you hold today is rarer than it was last year. The World Is Nervous - And Investors Are Rushing to Silver When economies feel unstable, people look for safety. And right now, the world has a lot to be nervous about. -Geopolitical tensions are rattling global financial markets. -Inflation fears make traditional investments feel uncertain. -Investors treat silver as a reliable financial safe haven.This wave of safe-haven buying creates a self-reinforcing cycle, the more people buy silver for security, the higher prices go, which makes it look even more valuable, which brings in even more buyers. What This Means for You as a Silver Jewellery Buyer So how does all of this - global green demand, supply deficits, import duties, and investor buying,  end up affecting the silver anklet or necklace you want to gift someone you love? -Rising raw material costs flow directly into jewelry prices. -Artisan wages and making charges add further cost layers. -Festival demand spikes push prices even higher seasonally.The result? The beautiful silver jewelry you are admiring today is genuinely more valuable than it was a year ago - and waiting might mean paying more tomorrow. Conclusion Now you know why silver prices are rising across India. From growing industrial demand and limited global supply to inflation concerns and investor interest, several powerful factors are driving silver prices upward. As silver becomes more valuable in both technology and jewellery markets, its importance continues to grow worldwide. So whether you are buying silver for gifting, personal use, or long-term value, understanding these market trends can help you make a smarter and more confident decision. FAQ's Why are silver prices rising in India right now? Silver prices are rising due to surging industrial demand, global supply shortages, import duty hikes, and increased investor buying. Is silver becoming a popular investment in India? Absolutely, as geopolitical tensions and inflation fears grow, investors worldwide are increasingly treating silver as a trusted safe haven. Why are investors shifting from gold to silver? Investors see silver as a reliable safe haven during geopolitical tensions, currency fluctuations, and growing global economic uncertainties. What is driving the demand for silver globally? Solar panels, electric vehicles, smartphones, and 5G networks are consuming silver at historically record-breaking levels worldwide. How does inflation in India affect silver prices? Inflation fears push investors toward silver as a safe hedge, increasing demand and automatically driving domestic prices higher. Does the Indian rupee directly affect silver prices?  Yes, since India imports silver in US Dollars, any rupee weakening directly and significantly raises domestic silver prices. 
May 29, 2026
Top 10 Platinum Ring Designs for Modern Couples 
Love is immortal , and so is platinum . At Jos Alukkas, where every jewellery dream seems to land in its perfect form , platinum rings have turned into the ultimate sign of modern romance. Stronger than gold , rarer than most metals , and quietly gorgeous in a way that’s hard to ignore, platinum is saying the whole language of forever. If you and your partner are ready to level up your bond a little more, here are the top 10 platinum ring styles that modern couples are really falling for in 2026. Platinum Jewellery Designs 2026: Top 10 Rings Every Modern Couple Will Love This year, platinum jewellery designs 2026 are kind of bolder, more personal and more breathtaking than ever, honestly. From whisper soft minimalism to sculpted geometric art, there is a perfect platinum ring waiting for every kind of love story. Also, there is an energy in the details that feels a bit sharper. Here are the 10 designs setting trends across India right now: Minimalist High-Polish Bands :- A seamless, sleek loop of pure platinum; timeless, effortless, and perfect for everyday luxury. Fingerprint Engraved Bands :- Your partner's actual fingerprint laser-etched onto the band; the most intimate personalisation in modern jewellery. Dual-Tone Platinum & Rose Gold :- Cool platinum beautifully paired with warm 18K rose gold accents, symbolising two souls perfectly united. Matte & Glossy Finish Bands :- A brushed matte centre flanked by polished rims; modern, geometric, and strikingly contemporary. Hidden Diamond Solitaires :- A sleek exterior concealing a secret diamond inside; minimalist on the outside, luxurious at heart. Geometrically Textured Bands :- Bold triangles, zigzag cuts, and honeycomb patterns etched into platinum for a truly unique aesthetic. Eternity & Half-Eternity Bands :- A continuous loop of brilliant pavé diamonds set in platinum, representing never-ending, unbroken love. Braided or Interlocking Rings : Two strands of platinum beautifully woven together, a stunning visual poem about two lives becoming one. Elvish or Braille Script Engraving :- Secret romantic messages engraved in Elvish, Braille, or Morse code for deeply personal storytelling.Asymmetric Wave Bands :- Gentle flowing curves and organic waves; modern, fluid, and refreshingly unconventional for free-spirited couples. Platinum Ring for Men India: Bold, Modern & Built to Last Jewellery used to be a topic of discussion just amongst women in the past. Platinum ring for men India is now a style statement that is strong and elegant yet extremely masculine in essence. In today’s scenario, men who choose platinum are fascinated by the unique natural white luster of platinum which does not wear off with time, hypoallergenic quality making it perfect for sensitive skin, and exceptional durability making it better than both gold and silver. You can choose from a variety of textures such as a geometric shaped band, matte finish solitaire, or even a braided ring. Buy Platinum Ring at Jos Alukkas: Where Every Love Story Finds Its Ring Ready to make it official? If you buy a platinum ring from Jos Alukkas, you are not only purchasing jewellery, you are investing in a legacy, and it kinda feels more meaningful than that. Every platinum ring at Jos Alukkas includes certified purity, transparent pricing and that comforting personalised expert guidance, that has made us South India’s most trusted jewellery destination for generations. Just walk into any Jos Alukkas showroom, take a look at our stunning platinum jewellery designs, 2026 collections, and you will likely find the ring that says everything words never really can .   FAQ's What makes platinum ideal for couple rings? Platinum is durable, naturally white, hypoallergenic, and rare, making it a timeless symbol of lasting love and commitment. Which platinum ring design is best for everyday wear? Fingerprint-engraved and hidden-diamond platinum rings are excellent for everyday wear, combining durability, comfort, meaningful personalization, and style. What is a dual-tone platinum ring design?A dual-tone platinum ring combines platinum with rose or yellow gold, creating a stylish contrast that symbolizes unity. Are platinum rings better than gold for couples? Platinum rings are more durable, naturally white, and highly resistant to wear, making them a lasting choice for couples. Are platinum rings a good investment for couples?Platinum rings are a meaningful investment in lasting quality, durability, and timeless style, making them ideal for couples. What are textured platinum rings?  Textured platinum rings feature engraved patterns, geometric details, or unique finishes, adding character, depth, and contemporary appeal.
May 27, 2026