Hallmarking is a system used to show that a precious-metal item, such as gold, silver, has been tested and meets a specified standard of purity.

Hallmarking helps customers know the quality and purity of the jewellery they are buying. It provides confidence that the metal contains the amount of precious metal claimed by the seller.

For gold jewellery, the hallmark generally indicates its purity. For example:

• 24K / 999 – 99.9% pure gold
• 22K / 916 – 91.6% pure gold
• 18K / 750 – 75.0% pure gold
• 14K / 585 – 58.5% pure gold

1. The jewellery is submitted for testing.
2. The precious-metal content is checked.
3. If it meets the required standard, it is hallmarked.
4. The hallmark is stamped or laser-marked on the item.

For Customers

• Helps verify purity
• Increases confidence when buying jewellery
• Makes comparison between products easier

For Jewellery Sellers

• Demonstrates quality
• Builds customer trust
• Supports compliance with applicable standards

In India, gold jewellery and certain other precious-metal articles are hallmarked under the system administered by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). Buyers should look for the applicable BIS hallmark and purity details when purchasing hallmarked jewellery.

Hallmarking is an important way of communicating the purity and quality of precious-metal jewellery. It protects consumers and helps create greater trust between buyers and sellers.

Choose hallmarked jewellery for greater confidence in the purity of your purchase.