If you plan to buy silver coins, utensils, or gifts this Dussehra, Diwali, or Dhanteras, you’re not alone. Bringing silver home is seen as a symbol of prosperity and good luck, and it’s a long-standing tradition in Indian households.
Before buying, it’s important to confirm that the silver is pure. Silver hallmarking ensures this. Hallmarking is an official certification that verifies the metal’s purity and guarantees that you’re getting what’s claimed.
What is hallmarking?
Hallmarking is the process of testing and officially recording the exact amount of pure metal in a product. It helps confirm that gold or silver meets the stated purity.
Why is hallmarking important?
The main purpose of hallmarking is to protect consumers from fraud. Sometimes, the purity of gold or silver is reduced, and customers may unknowingly pay the full price for lower-quality metal. Hallmarking prevents this.
It also helps establish India as a leading market for precious metals and increases export potential.
Hallmarks include important details like metal purity, the jeweler who sold it, the testing center, and sometimes the year of manufacture.
Marks seen in a hallmark
BIS logo: A triangle symbol showing certification by BIS.
Purity grade: For silver, 925 is the most common, meaning 92.5% pure.
Assaying & Hallmarking Centre code: The place where the metal was tested.
Jeweler’s ID mark: Identifies the registered jeweler who sold the product.
Tips for buying silver this festive season
Always check for the hallmark when buying silver.
Ensure the invoice clearly mentions “BIS Hallmarked.”
Avoid products without a hallmark, even if they are cheaper.
You can verify hallmarks instantly using the BIS Care app.
New rules and purity grades
From September 1, the government introduced a voluntary hallmarking system for silver jewelry and articles.
The new system offers seven purity grades: 800, 835, 925, 958, 970, 990, and 999, giving buyers more choice and transparency.
Other important points
Always buy hallmarked silver for genuine and pure metal.
Make sure the bill clearly mentions BIS Hallmarked.
Check the hallmark’s authenticity instantly with the BIS Care app.
Purchase silver coins, utensils, or jewelry only from registered jewelers.
Keep the bill and hallmark receipt safely; they may be needed later.
