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When buying gold jewellery, it’s crucial to verify the authenticity and purity of the gold. One of the most reliable ways to do so is by examining the hallmark. Hallmarks are official stamps or markings that indicate the purity and authenticity of the metal used in the jewellery. Whether you are purchasing gold for investment or as a gift, knowing how to identify hallmarks can help you make a confident purchase.
What Is a Gold Hallmark?
A hallmark is a stamp on gold jewellery that verifies its purity and authenticity. In India, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) regulates hallmarks, which typically show the gold’s purity (e.g., 22K or 24K), the authority’s logo, and the jeweller’s registration number. Recognising these symbols ensures you know what you’re buying.
Understanding the Purity Marks on Gold Jewellery
Gold purity is measured in karat (K), and the hallmark will usually feature the karat number to indicate the purity level. The most common purities for gold jewellery are 22 karat (22K), 18 karat (18K), and 24 karat (24K).
- 24 karat (24K) Gold: This is considered pure gold (99.9% gold content). It is typically soft and malleable, which makes it ideal for investment but not suitable for all types of jewellery.
- 22 karat (22K) Gold: This is the most common purity for gold jewellery. It consists of 91.6% gold and is mixed with other metals for added strength.
- 18 karat (18K) Gold: This gold has a gold content of 75%, mixed with other metals to provide durability. While it’s more affordable, its value is lower compared to 22K or 24K gold.
In India, hallmarks on jewellery often indicate the purity in Karat. For example, if you are buying a piece with 20 Karat gold, the hallmark will explicitly denote this, allowing you to gauge its value based on the purity.
Key Symbols and Marks to Look for in a Hallmark
A hallmark usually features several important symbols that help identify the authenticity of the jewellery:
1. The Karat Mark: This number indicates the purity of the gold. For instance, a hallmark showing “22K” means the gold is 22 karat.
2. The BIS Logo: The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) logo is a key symbol that certifies the authenticity of the gold. It ensures that the piece meets the prescribed purity standards.
3. The Jeweller’s Unique Identification Number: This number helps trace the jeweller or manufacturer who made the jewellery, ensuring accountability.
4. Assaying Centre Mark: Some hallmarks will also feature a mark of the assaying centre where the gold was tested for purity. This stamp guarantees that the piece has been tested for authenticity.
How to Verify the Hallmark
Verifying the hallmark on your gold jewellery is essential to ensuring its authenticity. You can verify the hallmark by following these steps:
- Look for the BIS logo and purity number: Check that the hallmark includes the BIS logo, the karat number (22K, 20K, etc.), and the jeweller’s ID number.
- Use Online Tools: Many jewellery websites, including some banks and e-commerce platforms, offer tools to verify hallmarks by entering the jeweller’s identification number. Some brands also offer QR code verification to confirm authenticity.
- Visit Certified Assaying Centres: If you are unsure about the hallmark, you can visit certified assaying centres where you can get the purity of the gold tested.
In India, BIS ensures the integrity of the hallmarking system, so if the jewellery does not have a BIS mark, it may not conform to legal purity standards.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Checking a Hallmark
While hallmarks are generally trustworthy, there are a few common mistakes people make when verifying their authenticity:
1. Relying on Fake or Unverified Hallmarks: Some counterfeit jewellers use forged hallmarks to mislead buyers. Always buy from reputed stores that use BIS-certified hallmarks.
2. Ignoring the Purity Information: Sometimes, consumers may overlook the purity details. It’s important to check that the karat mark matches the gold content stated by the jeweller.
3. Failing to Verify the Jeweller’s ID: If the jeweller’s ID number is missing or unclear, it may be a sign that the piece is not properly certified.
Understanding Gold Rate Today and Its Impact on Hallmarked Jewellery
The gold rate today in Goa, Mumbai, or any other region, directly impacts the price of hallmarked jewellery. Gold prices fluctuate based on market conditions, international demand, and local factors, so checking the current rate is important for evaluating the value of gold jewellery.
When buying hallmarked gold, the price depends on its purity, weight, and current gold rate. For example, for 20 karat (20K) gold, the rate helps determine the gold’s value, excluding charges like craftsmanship or retailer margin.
Conclusion
Identifying hallmarks on gold jewellery ensures its authenticity and purity. Always verify the marks and purity levels before buying. This helps safeguard your investment and ensures a genuine purchase.