The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) stipulates that Hallmarking is mandatory on jewelry as per law, but certain exceptions are mentioned, that make it  easier for jewellers to sell their produce. The jewelry types that have been exempted are mostly bought during weddings.

What is Hallmarking

Three common hallmarking signs are found on artefacts and jewelry of 14, 18, 20 and 22 karat. The  first is the triangle shaped logo of BIS that signifies the gold jewelry has been approved at a BIS certified centre. The second is the Purity/Fineness Grade logo that indicates the  degree of purity in the Gold. The third is a 6-digit Alpha-Numeric Code, which is also known as the Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID) unique to each item.  A Hallmarking charge  of Rs 45 per piece is levied by the Jeweller, irrespective of the weight. The Hallmark is valid for the life of the jewelry item, till it is melted.

What kind of Jewelry is Exempt from Hallmarking

• Article having Gold Thread.
• Article weighing less than 2 grams.
• Gold Bullion Bar, Plate, Sheet, Foil, Rod, Wire, Tube, Strip or Coin.
• Kundan, Polki and Jadaau jewelry
• Gold Fountain Pens and Watches

An important aspect to be noted is that if jewelry comes in detachable parts, then each item needs to be having its own Hallmark (HUID). If a part of the jewelry is less than 2 grams, then it does not need a HUID. For eg. if a gold earring comes with a gold screw, which is 2gm or more, it needs to have a separate HUID. If the screw is less than 2gm then it does not need a HUID.