How to make sure your gold jewellery is really pure

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Buying gold jewellery is almost a ritual in India. Whether it’s for a wedding, Diwali, or just because you’ve had your eye on a piece for a while, the shine of gold is hard to resist. But before you hand over your money, it’s smart to pause and make sure what you’re getting is actually as pure as the jeweller claims.

Always check for a hallmark

The easiest and most reliable way to check purity is to look for the BIS hallmark. Every genuine gold piece now comes with a small stamp that tells you its caratage, the BIS logo, and a unique HUID number. This HUID is like the jewellery’s ID card, and you can quickly verify it on the BIS Care app. No hallmark? Walk away.

Know your karats

Not all gold jewellery is created equal. 24K sounds fancy because it’s the purest, but it’s too soft to make everyday jewellery. That’s why most pieces in the market are 22K, which is 91.6% pure and still durable. If you’re looking for strength and a slightly lower price tag, 18K is a good balance. The more you know about karats, the less likely you are to overpay.

Use the BIS Care app

If you’re still unsure, don’t just rely on what the shopkeeper says. Use the BIS Care app to check the HUID number. It takes less than a minute and gives you peace of mind. This step is especially useful if you’re buying from a new jeweller or splurging on a heavy piece.

Don’t ignore the bill

Purity isn’t the only thing that matters. Gold jewellery bills can be loaded with hidden extras. Making charges alone can add 8% to 20% depending on how intricate the design is, and then there’s GST on top. Always ask for a detailed breakdown so you know exactly what you’re paying for.

Why it matters

Here’s the thing: gold isn’t just for wearing, it’s also an investment. If you ever want to exchange or sell your jewellery, the purity will decide how much you actually get back. Hallmarked gold fetches better resale value and avoids disputes later.