Hallmark Guide: Decode Gold, Silver & BIS Stamps in India
If you’ve ever stared at a piece of jewellery and wondered what those numbers and symbols mean, you’re not alone. Hallmarks are the tiny clues that tell you how pure the metal is, whether it’s been officially tested, and if it’s safe to buy. In this guide we’ll break down the most common marks you’ll see on Indian jewellery – from 875 on gold to 833 on silver – and show you how to verify them in everyday life.
Gold Hallmarks – What 875, 916 and 999 Mean
Gold purity is expressed as a fraction of 24 parts. A stamp of 875 means the piece is 87.5% pure, which is the same as 21‑karat gold. You’ll also see 916 (22 K) and 999 (24 K) on pure gold items. The number is usually followed by the BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) logo, a three‑digit code for the assay office, and the maker’s mark.
Why does this matter? Higher purity gold costs more, but it’s also softer and can scratch easier. Knowing the hallmark helps you match your budget with the right durability. If the stamp is missing or looks tampered with, ask the seller for a certificate or a BIS Hallmark card before you pay.
Silver Hallmarks – Decoding 833 and 925
Silver works the same way. A mark of 833 indicates 83.3% purity, commonly called “Sterling Silver” in India. The Western standard is 925, which means 92.5% pure silver. Both marks should come with the BIS emblem and the assay office code.
Silver is prone to tarnish, so buyers often look for pieces with a proper hallmark to ensure they’re getting genuine material and not a cheap alloy. Again, if the hallmark is unclear, request a lab report or a BIS certificate.
In practice, checking a hallmark takes seconds. Just hold the jewellery up to the light, look for the numbers, and compare them with a quick online list of Indian assay office codes. If you’re unsure, a local jeweller can use a magnifying glass to verify the stamp.
Remember, a hallmark is your safety net. It protects you from fake or sub‑standard pieces, and it also boosts resale value because buyers trust verified purity. So the next time you shop, take a moment to read the numbers – it could save you a lot of hassle and money.
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