Consumer Protection
BIS Hallmarking Guide
Since June 2021, hallmarking is mandatory for gold jewellery sold in India. Every piece must carry a unique HUID number. Here's everything you need to know.
What is Hallmarking?
Hallmarking is a government-certified guarantee that your gold is exactly the purity claimed. It's done by BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) through authorized Assaying & Hallmarking Centres.
Think of it like a passport for your gold — a unique identity that proves its authenticity.
The 3 Hallmarks
Every hallmarked gold piece has exactly 3 marks stamped on it:
BIS Logo
The triangular BIS standard mark. Confirms the piece was tested at an authorized centre.
Purity Grade
A number indicating gold fineness: 999 (24K), 916 (22K), 750 (18K), or 585 (14K).
HUID
A 6-character alphanumeric Hallmark Unique Identification code — unique to each piece globally.
What is HUID?
HUID (Hallmark Unique Identification) is a 6-character code (e.g., "AB12CD") stamped on every hallmarked piece. It acts like an Aadhaar for your jewellery:
- Each HUID is globally unique — no two pieces share it
- Linked to the jeweller, assaying centre, date, and purity
- Can be verified online or via the BIS Care app
- Helps trace stolen jewellery back to the source
How to Verify Hallmark
Find the HUID
Look for the 6-character code stamped on the inside surface of the jewellery.
Open BIS Care App
Download 'BIS Care' from Play Store or App Store. It's free and official.
Enter HUID
Go to 'Verify HUID' section and type the code.
Check Details
The app shows: purity, jeweller name, assaying centre, and date of hallmarking.
Common Questions
Is hallmarking mandatory for all gold?
Yes, for gold jewellery of 14K, 18K, 20K, 22K, and 24K sold by registered jewellers. Exemptions exist for jewellery below 2 grams and for export pieces.
Can old jewellery (without HUID) be sold?
Yes. Old gold can be sold, exchanged, or melted. The buyer tests the purity at that time. HUID is required only for new pieces being sold.
Does hallmarking guarantee design quality?
No. Hallmarking only certifies gold purity. Design quality, finish, and stone setting are the jeweller's reputation.
What if the HUID doesn't verify?
Report it to BIS immediately. The jeweller can face penalties. This is rare with reputable shops but important to check.
Is silver hallmarked too?
Silver hallmarking is voluntary in India (not mandatory yet). BIS does offer silver hallmarking for 999 and 925 purity.
Gondilal Saraf Guarantee: Every gold piece sold at our shop is BIS Hallmarked with HUID. We provide the hallmark certificate with every purchase. You can verify any piece at the counter before buying.