Ensure Gold Purity: Why BIS Hallmarked Jewellery is a Must During Festivals

Govt Urges Shoppers to Buy BIS Hallmarked Gold Jewellery: Key Details and Guidelines

The government has issued an advisory urging consumers to purchase only BIS-hallmarked gold jewellery during the festive season to ensure the authenticity and purity of their purchases. Festivals are significant occasions for gold purchases, and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) emphasizes making informed decisions to protect buyers from counterfeit products.

What is Hallmarking?

Hallmarking is the precise determination and certification of the proportionate content of precious metals, such as gold or silver, in an article. It serves as a third-party assurance for consumers, guaranteeing the purity and quality of the gold they purchase.

Key Features of BIS Hallmarking

The hallmarking process in India is governed by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and includes the following features:

1. BIS Standard Mark: Confirms compliance with BIS standards.
2. Purity in Carats and Fineness: Indicates gold purity (e.g., 22K, 18K).
3. HUID Code: A six-digit alphanumeric Hallmarking Unique ID that is specific to each jewellery item, ensuring traceability.

Mandatory Hallmarking and HUID

Since June 2021, hallmarking of gold jewellery and artifacts has been mandatory in India. The HUID system ensures transparency and prevents fraud, as every gold article is uniquely identified and traceable.

How to Verify Hallmarked Jewellery

Consumers can verify the authenticity of their gold jewellery using the BIS Care App:

1. Download the app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
2. Register with your name, phone number, and email address.
3. Navigate to the “Verify HUID” section.
4. Enter the six-digit HUID code of the jewellery item.
5. Check details such as the jeweller’s registration, hallmarking centre, purity, and hallmarking date.

Importance of Hallmarking

• Consumer Protection: Hallmarking ensures that buyers receive gold of the claimed purity and quality.
• Transparency: With the HUID system, every piece of jewellery is traceable.
• Trust in Quality: Gold jewellery stamped with a hallmark provides peace of mind for consumers.

Charges for Hallmarking

• Hallmarking Fee: ₹45 per article (excluding taxes).
• Testing Charges: ₹200 for testing hallmarked jewellery at BIS-recognized Assaying and Hallmarking Centres (AHCs).

Government Recommendations

The government advises consumers to:

1. Purchase jewellery only from BIS-registered jewellers.
2. Verify the HUID code using the BIS Care App.
3. Avoid buying non-hallmarked gold items, as they lack a guarantee of purity.
4. Retain invoices and certification for future reference.

As India enters the festive gold-buying season, the government’s push for BIS-hallmarked gold ensures better consumer protection and trust in the market. By following the guidelines and leveraging tools like the BIS Care App, consumers can make safe and informed purchases.