Legality in Indian Jewellery: What Every Buyer Needs to Know

When you shop for gold, silver or precious stones, the first thing to check is whether the piece complies with Indian law. Legal markings protect you from fake items and help you estimate the real value. This guide pulls together the most common legal stamps you’ll see on Indian jewellery and gives you quick tips to verify them.

Key Hallmarks and What They Mean

875 (21K) Gold – The number 875 tells you the piece is 21‑karat gold, meaning 87.5% pure gold. In India the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) requires a tiny hallmarked circle with the number 875 and the BIS logo. If you see just a random stamp without the BIS seal, treat it with caution.

833 Silver – Silver jewellery often carries the 833 stamp, indicating 83.3% purity (commonly called “sterling silver”). Look for the BIS mark or a reputable silver hallmarker’s logo. A missing or smudged stamp can be a red flag.

Other Gold Marks – You’ll also find 916 (22K gold), 750 (18K gold) or 585 (14K gold). The same rule applies: a BIS‑approved hallmarked circle should accompany the numeric purity mark.

How to Verify Hallmarks on the Spot

First, examine the back or inside of the piece. Legal hallmarks are usually a small circle about 2 mm in diameter. Use a magnifying glass if you have one – the letters are tiny but crisp when genuine.

Second, do a simple weight‑to‑size test. Pure gold feels heavier than a similarly sized piece of copper or brass. If the item feels unusually light for its size, double‑check the hallmark.

Third, try the magnet test. Gold and silver are non‑magnetic, so a strong magnet should not stick. If it does, you probably have a base‑metal core with a thin gold or silver plating.

Finally, keep a record of the hallmark code. You can cross‑reference it on the BIS website or ask a certified jeweller to verify the stamp’s authenticity.

Following these steps saves you from costly mistakes, especially when buying from street markets or online sellers who might skip proper stamping to cut costs.

Legal Responsibilities for Sellers and Buyers

Indian law mandates that any gold or silver item above a certain weight must carry a BIS hallmark. Sellers who ignore this can face fines and legal action. As a buyer, ask for a Hallmark Certificate – a short document that lists the purity, weight and hallmark details. reputable stores provide it automatically.

If you’re unsure, request a Hallmark verification from a nearby BIS‑approved lab. The service costs a few hundred rupees but can prevent a future loss of thousands.

Remember, the hallmark isn’t just a decorative mark; it’s a legal guarantee of purity and quality. Treat it like a receipt for your investment.

By knowing what each stamp stands for and how to test it, you turn a regular jewellery purchase into a confident, legally‑sound decision. Keep this guide handy next time you’re in a market or browsing online – it’ll help you spot genuine pieces and avoid costly fakes.