Hallmark Gold India: Your Quick Guide to Spotting Real Gold

If you’ve ever stood in a jewellery shop wondering what those tiny numbers mean, you’re not alone. Hallmarks are the secret language that tells you if the gold you’re eyeing is genuine, how pure it is, and whether it meets Indian standards. In this guide we’ll break down the most common marks, show you how to check them, and give you a few hacks to avoid fake pieces.

Decoding the Numbers: 916, 875, 750 and What They Mean

In India the gold purity is expressed as a three‑digit stamp. 916 means 91.6% pure gold – that’s 22 karat, the gold most people wear daily because it’s strong enough for everyday use. 875 stands for 87.5% purity, or 21 karat. 750 is 75% pure (18 karat) and is popular for intricate designs that need more alloy for durability. When you see any of these numbers on a piece, you instantly know its gold content.

Don’t forget the “BIS” stamp – the Bureau of Indian Standards symbol guarantees that the purity claim has been tested in a government lab. A gold item with the BIS logo and a three‑digit number is the safest bet.

Practical Tips to Verify Hallmarks on the Spot

1. Look closely. Use a magnifier or simply a good phone camera. The stamp should be crisp, not faded. If it’s worn off or looks like a random engraving, ask the seller for proof.

2. Check the weight. Gold of a given purity has a predictable weight per gram. If a 10 g 22 karat ring feels unusually light, it might be plated.

3. Magnet test. Real gold isn’t magnetic. Hold a small magnet near the piece; if it sticks, the item likely contains a lot of alloy or is just base metal with gold plating.

4. Ask for the assay certificate. Reputable dealers will provide a BIS certificate that matches the hallmark numbers.

5. Know the common fake marks. Some sellers copy the 916 or 875 stamp but forget the tiny “B” of the BIS logo. Spotting that missing letter can save you a lot of trouble.

Understanding hallmarks isn’t just for collectors – it’s essential for anyone buying gold for the first time. With a quick glance, you can tell if a piece is truly 22 karat, if it’s been certified by BIS, or if you’re staring at a cleverly plated impostor.

Remember, the hallmark is your first line of defense. Combine it with a few simple tests, and you’ll walk out of the store confident that the gold you’re holding is exactly what the seller claims.

Happy shopping, and may every piece you buy shine with genuine purity!

Understanding Hallmark Gold in India's Temple Jewellery

Understanding Hallmark Gold in India's Temple Jewellery

Hallmark gold in India serves as a certification for the purity and quality of gold, which is crucial for temple jewellery. In a country where gold holds cultural and spiritual significance, understanding hallmarking is important for consumers and craftsmen. This certification provides a standardized measure which helps in preserving the authenticity of traditional temple jewellery. Hallmarking ensures that the intricate designs of temple jewellery are matched by their inherent value, offering buyers peace of mind. This article delves into what hallmark gold means, its relevance, and tips on how to ensure you are purchasing authentic pieces.