Gold jewellery has always been a symbol of elegance, wealth, and tradition. When shopping for it, it’s essential to ensure that the gold you’re purchasing is of the highest quality. This is where hallmarking comes into play. But what is hallmark gold, and why does it matter? Join us as we understand what is hallmark gold and why it’s crucial for consumers to know the concept.

What is Hallmark Gold Jewellery? An In-depth Look

If you are wondering what hallmark gold jewellery is, it refers to gold that has been tested and certified by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) through authorised Assaying and Hallmarking (A&H) Centres. 

What is the Hallmark Sign on Gold Jewellery?

When you ask, "What is the meaning of hallmark gold?", the answer lies in the set of symbols displayed on the jewellery. These indicate BIS certification, purity, and a unique identification. For instance, 916 indicates 22-carat gold, and 750 signifies 18-carat gold. 

Different Types of Hallmark in Gold Jewellery

With this clarity of what is hallmark gold, let's move forward to understanding its several types.

• What is 24 Carat Gold Hallmark?

24-carat gold is the purest form of gold available, typically marked with 995 or 999, signifying 99.5% or 99.9% purity. While such fineness is used for gold coins and bars, 24k gold jewellery is uncommon because of its softness. It is not part of BIS’s mandatory hallmarking categories for jewellery, which apply mainly to 14k, 18k, and 22k gold.

• What is 916 Hallmark – 22 Carat Gold?

The 916 hallmark signifies that the gold in the piece is 22 carats, or 91.6% pure gold. 22k gold jewellery is particularly popular for creating wedding jewellery. So, if you ask, "what is 22 carat gold hallmark?", it refers to a purity standard that combines luxury, authenticity, and enduring value. 

• What is the Hallmark for 18 Carat Gold?

18-carat gold, marked with the 750 hallmark, is a highly versatile and popular choice for creating that durable jewellery. So, what is a 750 hallmark? It signifies that the jewellery is made from 75% pure gold. The remaining 25% typically consists of other metals. 18k gold jewellery is often preferred for daily wear jewellery. Additionally, this variant is commonly used in creating rose and white gold jewellery. 

• What is a 14 Carat Gold Hallmark?

14-carat gold, marked with the 585 hallmark, signifies that the jewellery is made from 58.5% pure gold. The remaining 41.5% consists of other metals, which make the jewellery more durable. 14k gold jewellery is often favoured for its balance of strength, affordability, and aesthetic appeal.

• KDM and Other Marks

You may also come across older jewellery labelled as KDM, referring to the use of cadmium-based solder during manufacture. However, this practice has been banned due to health hazards, and KDM jewellery cannot be hallmarked under BIS regulations. Always ensure your gold jewellery carries a valid BIS hallmark and HUID for complete authenticity.

How to Check Hallmark on Gold Jewellery?

Now that you have understood "what is hallmark gold", it’s essential to know how to check the hallmark. Here are a few things to look out for:

• BIS Logo and Purity Marks

Look for the BIS logo, which is a sign that the piece has been tested and certified. Accompanying this logo, you’ll see the purity marks such as 916 for 22-carat gold or 750 for 18-carat gold. 

• Hallmarking Centre Number

Another important feature to look for is the hallmarking centre number. You’ll learn which testing centre certified the gold.

• Jeweller’s Mark and HUID (Hallmark Unique ID)

Each piece of hallmark gold jewellery should have the jeweller’s mark and a unique HUID (Hallmark Unique ID). This ID is a traceable code that links the piece to the jeweller who sold it.

Benefits of Buying Hallmark Gold Jewellery: Know Why It's Important

Now that you understand what is hallmark gold, let’s explore some of the key benefits:

• Assurance of Purity and Authenticity

One of the most significant advantages is the assurance of purity. You might be buying white or rose gold jewellery. The hallmark guarantees that the gold used in the piece is authentic and has been tested.

• Long-Term Investment Value

Hallmarked gold jewellery offers long-term value. Since it’s certified, it retains its value better than non-hallmarked pieces. 

• Consumer Protection

Hallmarking ensures that you aren’t being sold impure or fake gold. The certification also provides a way to verify authenticity if you wish to resell or exchange your jewellery in the future.

FAQs on What is Hallmark Gold

1. What is hallmark jewellery and why is it important?

Hallmark ensures the gold has been tested and certified for purity under BIS standards (IS 1417). It helps protect consumers from fraud and guarantees quality.

2. What is the hallmark for 18 carat gold?

The hallmark for 18-carat gold is typically 750, meaning it contains 75% pure gold.

3. How can I verify if my gold jewellery is hallmarked?

Check for the BIS logo, purity mark, and HUID on the item. Then, verify the HUID on the BIS CARE app for details of the jeweller and hallmarking centre.

4. Does hallmarking affect the price of gold?

Hallmarking may slightly influence the making charges but not the gold rate itself. It mainly adds transparency and assurance of quality rather than altering intrinsic value.