What BIS hallmarking is for
BIS defines hallmarking as the accurate determination and official recording of the proportionate content of precious metal in an article. For a buyer, the purpose is straightforward: the mark provides a standardised way to identify the stated purity of hallmarked jewellery.
The three hallmark components
BIS says that since the introduction of HUID, a gold jewellery hallmark consists of three marks:
- BIS logo.
- Purity of the article in caratage as well as fineness.
- A six-digit alphanumeric HUID.
The HUID is unique for each hallmarked item and is traceable.
How to verify HUID
BIS says consumers can verify the HUID using the Verify HUID feature in the BIS Care app. The details returned by the app should be consistent with the item you are checking.
Match the hallmark to the invoice
If a jewellery item is priced as 22K, the purity mark should correspond to the 22K/916 category. Likewise, an 18K item is associated with 750 fineness. The rate used on the invoice should match the purity of the item rather than a different, higher-purity benchmark.
Buyer checklist
| Check | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| BIS logo | Identifies the hallmark scheme |
| Carat + fineness | Connects the item to the correct purity rate |
| Six-digit HUID | Provides a unique traceable identifier |
| Invoice purity | Should match the marked item |
| Net gold weight | Important when stones/non-gold components are present |
What hallmarking does not tell you
Hallmarking addresses stated metal purity. It does not tell you whether a making charge is cheap, whether a design premium is fair, or whether a particular buyback policy is attractive. Those are separate purchase decisions.
What to do if the details do not match
If the purity on the invoice, the mark on the jewellery and the HUID verification do not line up, do not treat the mismatch as a minor formatting issue. Ask the seller to explain it before completing the transaction. The purpose of checking these details is to make sure the commercial description and the marked item refer to the same product.
Keep a photo or written record of the HUID together with the invoice details for your own records. If jewellery contains multiple detachable components or a set of pieces, confirm how the seller has identified each hallmarked item.
Hallmark verification is especially useful when comparing offers from unfamiliar retailers, but it should be combined with normal purchase checks: net gold weight, itemised charges, return/exchange terms and the final invoice amount.
FAQ
Is HUID the same as the purity number?
No. HUID is a unique six-digit alphanumeric identifier. Purity/fineness is a separate hallmark component.
Can I verify HUID myself?
Yes. BIS says the BIS Care app includes a Verify HUID feature for consumers.
Does a hallmark replace the need for an invoice?
No. Keep the itemised invoice as the commercial record of the purchase, including price, weight and charges.
