BIS Hallmark India – What It Is and Why It Matters

If you’ve ever wondered what those tiny numbers and symbols on a piece of jewelry actually mean, you’re not alone. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) hallmark is the government’s way of saying, “Yes, this gold or silver really is what it claims to be.” It’s a quick visual cue that protects you from cheap imitations and helps you buy with confidence.

When you see a hallmark, you’re looking at three things: the BIS logo, the purity mark (like 916 for gold or 925 for silver), and a unique identification number. The logo is a small triangle, the purity mark tells you the exact fineness, and the ID number links the piece to a specific test report. Together they form a safety net for both buyers and sellers.

How to Read a BIS Hallmark

Spotting the hallmark is the first step. It’s usually a tiny stamp on the back of a ring, pendant, or bracelet. Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

  • Gold: 916 (22‑carat), 750 (18‑carat), 585 (14‑carat)
  • Silver: 925 (sterling), 950 (pure)
  • Platinum: 950

After the metal code, you’ll see the BIS triangle and a four‑digit lab code. That code tells you where the item was tested. Finally, the 10‑digit identifying number ties the piece to a certificate you can verify on the BIS website.

Practical Tips for Buying Hallmarked Jewellery

Don’t just trust a picture; ask for the hallmark details before you finish a purchase. If you’re shopping online, request a close‑up of the stamp and the certificate number. You can type that number into the BIS online portal to see if the test report matches the seller’s claim.

Watch out for fake stamps. Counterfeit hallmarks often have shallow engraving or irregular spacing. A genuine BIS mark is crisp, with clear lines. If the stamp feels raised and smooth, it’s likely real.

Another red flag is missing information. A real hallmark never leaves out the purity mark or the triangle. If you see only a logo or a random number, ask the seller for proof. Reputable stores will gladly show you the certification.

When you buy from a trusted jeweller, they’ll also give you a warranty card that references the hallmark. Keep this card safe; it’s useful if you ever need to sell or appraise the piece later.

Finally, remember that the BIS hallmark is mandatory for gold and silver items above 10 grams (or 5 grams for precious stones). Anything below that weight doesn’t require a stamp, but you can still ask the seller for a purity test if you want extra reassurance.

Understanding the BIS hallmark turns a confusing jumble of numbers into a clear signal of quality. Next time you’re tempted by a shiny piece, just pause, check the mark, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with genuine Indian jewellery.

What Does 875 Mean on Gold? 21K Purity, Value & BIS Hallmark Guide (India 2025)

What Does 875 Mean on Gold? 21K Purity, Value & BIS Hallmark Guide (India 2025)

Confused by 875 on gold? Learn how 21K/875 purity works, verify BIS hallmarking, avoid silver mix-ups, and estimate price when buying or selling in India.