Is Hallmarking Mandatory in India?

As gold remains one of the most valued commodities in India, ensuring its purity has become essential. Hallmarking, a process of certifying the content and purity of precious metals, is now mandatory in several parts of the country. Understanding how hallmarking works and complying with its legal framework is crucial for jewellers today.

What Is Hallmarking and Why It Matters?

Hallmarking is the accurate determination and official recording of the proportionate content of precious metals in gold and silver articles. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the authorized agency for hallmarking in India.

A standard hallmark on gold jewellery includes:

• The BIS logo

• Purity or fineness grade (e.g., 22K916)

• A six-digit Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID) number

• Jeweller's identification mark

These elements serve as a guarantee to the buyer and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

Is Hallmarking Mandatory in India?

Yes, hallmarking of gold jewellery and artefacts is mandatory in India in a phased manner. As per the directives from the Department of Consumer Affairs and BIS, jewellers must not sell gold without proper hallmarking in notified districts.

Since July 1, 2021, the government has made hallmarking compulsory in over 350 districts, and the coverage is expanding. Retailers operating in these districts must possess a valid hallmark registration and sell only hallmarked jewellery.

What Is Hallmark Registration?

Hallmark registration is the process by which a jeweller obtains permission from BIS to sell hallmarked products. Only registered jewellers are authorized to hallmark their gold articles through BIS-recognized Assaying and Hallmarking Centres (AHCs).

The process involves:

1. Online application on the BIS portal

2. Submission of relevant documents

3. Payment of registration fees

4. Allocation of a BIS registration number

Hallmark registration ensures that only compliant jewellers can sell certified articles, creating a trusted ecosystem for buyers and sellers alike.

Who Needs to Register?

All entities involved in the sale, manufacture, or distribution of gold jewellery and artefacts need to register. This includes:

• Jewellery retailers (small and large-scale)

• Goldsmiths and manufacturers

• Online jewellery platforms operating in notified districts

Non-registered entities are prohibited from offering hallmarked products for sale in the specified regions.

What Jewellery Products Require Hallmarking?

Mandatory hallmarking applies to:

• Gold jewellery and gold artefacts (of 14K, 18K, and 22K purity)

• Products sold in BIS-notified districts

However, certain exceptions apply:

• Articles weighing less than 2 grams

• Jewellery meant for export

• Articles for international exhibitions

• Jewellery already hallmarked before notification

Currently, hallmarking of silver items remains voluntary.

How to Apply for Hallmark Registration

The BIS hallmark registration process is straightforward:

1. Create an Account on the BIS hallmarking portal.

2. Submit the Application with the necessary business and personal details.

3. Upload Documents such as:

   • GST registration

   • Shop and Establishment License

   • Owner's ID proof

   • Business address proof

   • Photographs of the shop interior and exterior

4. Pay the Fee (as per BIS norms).

5. Wait for Verification and final approval.

Once approved, the jeweller receives a BIS registration number, which must be displayed at their premises.

Understanding the HUID System

The Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID) number is a 6-digit alphanumeric code stamped on every hallmarked item. It serves as a unique identifier for each piece and is linked to the jeweller and the Assaying and Hallmarking Centre that tested the item.

Since April 1, 2023, HUID-based hallmarking is mandatory across India. Even previously hallmarked jewellery without HUID must comply under specific regulations.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to adhere to hallmarking regulations can result in severe penalties, including:

• Fines up to ₹1 lakh per item

• Seizure of non-compliant goods

• Suspension or cancellation of hallmark registration

• Legal action under the BIS Act

It is critical for jewellers to ensure that all products sold in covered districts are compliant with hallmarking laws.

Benefits of Hallmarking for Jewellers

Though it is a legal requirement, hallmarking offers several advantages:

• Customer Trust: Certified purity helps establish credibility and increases repeat business.

• Reduced Disputes: Verified purity eliminates ambiguity and legal challenges.

• Market Expansion: Hallmark certification enables participation in exports and government tenders.

• Brand Enhancement: Being BIS-certified gives businesses a competitive edge.

With hallmarking, jewellers can build a long-term reputation in a highly competitive industry.

Common Challenges in Hallmark Registration

Despite its advantages, jewellers often face a few hurdles:

• Documentation Issues: Missing or incorrect documents delay the process.

• Technical Errors on Portal: Online application may face submission glitches.

• Inspection Delays: Verification from BIS can take time, depending on the region.

• Compliance Monitoring: Jewellers must stay updated with periodic changes in BIS norms.

To streamline the process, jewellers must ensure all documentation is accurate and up-to-date.

Recent Updates on Hallmarking Policy

Some important updates from 2024–25 include:

• Only 14K, 18K, and 22K gold jewellery is permitted under mandatory hallmarking.

• Hallmarked jewellery must carry a valid HUID, effective across India.

• HUID numbers must be mentioned in sale invoices and product tags.

• Articles hallmarked before April 2023 without HUID may be sold only under limited conditions and timelines.

Jewellers are advised to review official BIS notifications regularly.

Conclusion

Hallmarking is not just a statutory requirement—it is a vital part of maintaining quality and trust in the Indian gold industry. With hallmarking becoming mandatory in most districts, completing your hallmark registration and ensuring full compliance is essential for legal operations and customer confidence.

Staying informed, proactive, and compliant will not only protect your business but also position you as a trusted and credible jeweller in the market.