The Unbreakable Rule: Mandatory Hallmarking
The single most important protection for any gold buyer in India is the government-mandated hallmarking system regulated by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). As of 2026, it is illegal to sell gold jewellery or artefacts in 392 districts across India without
a BIS hallmark. This rule was introduced to safeguard consumers from adulteration and ensure they receive the purity they pay for. The mandatory hallmarking framework covers gold in various purities, including 9K, 14K, 18K, 20K, 22K, 23K and 24K. When you walk into a showroom, the jeweller is required to be registered with BIS and must display their registration certificate. This system is your first line of defence against under-karatage, where lower-purity gold is sold at a higher price.
Decoding the Modern Hallmark: HUID is Key
The old hallmarking system involved multiple stamps, which could be counterfeited. The new system, which became fully mandatory from April 1, 2023, is simpler and far more secure. Every piece of hallmarked gold jewellery sold must now feature a three-part mark: the triangular BIS logo, the purity grade (e.g., 22K916 for 22-carat gold), and a six-digit alphanumeric Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID) code. This HUID code is the game-changer. It gives each piece of jewellery a unique identity, linking it to a digital record in the BIS database that contains details about the jeweller, the assaying centre, and the purity. This traceability makes it extremely difficult for fraudulent items to enter the market.
Your Right to Verify: Using the BIS Care App
Your rights don't end with just seeing the hallmark; you have the right to verify it instantly. The BIS has empowered consumers with the 'BIS Care' mobile app. Before finalising a purchase, you can enter the six-character HUID code from the jewellery into the app's 'Verify HUID' feature. The app should display the exact details of the item, including its purity, weight, and the jeweller who had it hallmarked. A mismatch between the app's data and the item in your hand, or a code that returns no record, is a major red flag. Jewellers are also obligated to provide customers with a 10x magnifying glass to inspect the hallmark clearly.
The Bill is Your Proof: Insist on Details
A proper invoice is a critical legal document that enforces your rights. According to BIS guidelines, the bill for hallmarked jewellery must clearly state the description of each item, its net precious metal weight, purity in carats and fineness, and the hallmarking charges. It is important to distinguish the net weight of the gold from the total weight of the ornament, especially in stone-studded pieces. Making charges and GST should also be listed separately. Never accept a rough or consolidated bill. An itemised invoice is your proof of purchase and is essential if you need to file a complaint later.
What About Silver?
The rules for silver are slightly different. Unlike gold, hallmarking for silver jewellery is still voluntary in India as of late 2026. However, the government has taken steps to improve transparency. Since September 2025, if a jeweller chooses to hallmark a silver article, it must include a HUID code, just like gold. The hallmark for silver will include the BIS logo with the word 'SILVER', the purity grade (e.g., 925 for sterling silver), and the six digit HUID. So, while you may not find all silver hallmarked, if you do buy a hallmarked piece, you have the same right to verify its HUID on the BIS Care app.
When Things Go Wrong: Your Right to Redressal
If you suspect you've been sold jewellery that is less pure than what was claimed, you have several avenues for recourse. First, you can get the jewellery tested at any BIS - recognised Assaying and Hallmarking Centre. If the piece fails the purity test, the BIS guidelines state that you are entitled to compensation from the jeweller, calculated as twice the value of any difference in purity. For broader grievances, you can file a complaint with any National Consumer Helpline (NCH) by calling $1915$ or using their mobile app. You can also lodge a formal complaint directly with BIS via email or their 'BIS Care' app. For cases of outright cheating or fraud, filing a First Information Report (FIR) with any police or a case in any consumer court are also options.
