Dhanteras is the perfect occasion to welcome prosperity by purchasing precious metals. But how can you be sure the silver idol or artefact you buy is genuine? Here’s a clear guide to verifying hallmarks, certificates, and purity.
The BIS Hallmark: Your First Guarantee
The most reliable indicator
of silver purity in India is the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) hallmark. Since September 2025, any silver item that a jeweller chooses to hallmark must carry a new, three-part mark. First is the triangular BIS logo, which confirms the item was tested at a recognised Assaying and Hallmarking Centre (AHC). Second is the purity grade, a number like '925' that indicates 92.5% pure silver. The third and most important new feature is a six-character alphanumeric Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID) code. This code is unique to each individual piece, creating a digital trail for verification. It's important to note that while silver hallmarking is still voluntary as of late 2026, the government has signalled its intention to make it mandatory in phases.
Using HUID to Digitally Verify Your Silver
The HUID code transforms a physical stamp into a searchable database record. This is a game-changer for consumer confidence. To verify your purchase, download the official 'BIS Care' app on your smartphone. Use the 'Verify HUID' feature and enter the six-character code engraved on your silver artefact. The app should display crucial details: the type of article (e.g., idol, coin), its purity grade, the name of the jeweller, and the AHC where it was certified. If the details on the app match what the seller has told you, it's a strong confirmation of authenticity. This simple, two-minute check is the most powerful tool a buyer has today.
What Makes a Certificate of Authenticity Credible?
A certificate of authenticity is a document provided by the seller that supports the claims made about the product. While a BIS hallmark is a government-backed certification, a seller's certificate is a supplementary assurance. A credible certificate should not be a vague piece of paper. It must contain specific details that can be cross-referenced with the physical item. Look for the jeweller's name and registration number, a clear description of the item (e.g., 'Ganesha Idol'), the item’s gross and net weight, and its precise silver purity (e.g., '925 Sterling Silver'). Crucially, it should also list the HUID code that is engraved on the artefact itself. A certificate that omits these specifics offers little real value.
Understanding Silver Purity Grades
Silver items are rarely 100% pure because the metal is too soft on its own. It's alloyed with other metals like copper for strength and durability. The purity grade tells you the percentage of pure silver. The most common grade for jewellery and idols is '925', also known as sterling silver, which means the item is 92.5% pure silver. For investment items like coins or bars, you may see '999', indicating 99.9% purity. The BIS recognizes several grades, including 800, 835, 925, 970, and 999. Be wary of vague terms like 'German silver' or 'silver-plated', as these are not solid silver and do not hold the same value.
Beyond the Hallmark: Physical Checks and Seller Reputation
While the hallmark is key, you can perform simple physical checks. Real silver is not magnetic, so a strong magnet should not attract the item. However, this test is not foolproof as other non-magnetic metals can be used in fakes. Another indicator is craftsmanship; genuine silver idols from reputable makers often feature fine, intricate detailing in their design, which is harder to replicate in cheaper materials. Ultimately, the most important factor is the seller's reputation. Buy from established, trusted jewellers who are transparent about purity and provide proper bills that list the HUID and weight. Good sellers will welcome questions about hallmarking and willingly provide a magnifying glass for you to inspect the marks.
