The difference between BIS Hallmarked Gold and Non-Hallmarked Gold is something every gold buyer should know before making a purchase. When you buy gold, purity matters the most—and that’s exactly what hallmarking guarantees. BIS hallmarked gold comes with an official purity certificate approved by the Bureau of Indian Standards, ensuring that what you buy is genuine and accurately tested. On the other hand, non-hallmarked gold may not be tested for purity, which means you could be paying for more than you’re actually getting. Understanding this difference helps you make informed, safe, and confident jewelry purchases that truly retain their value.
What is BIS Hallmarked Gold?
BIS Hallmarking is a certification system introduced by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to ensure the purity of gold and silver items.
Each hallmarked jewelry piece bears a unique mark that confirms its authenticity.
A BIS hallmark typically includes
- BIS logo – verifies official certification.
- Purity in carats and fineness (like 22K916 or 18K750).
- Assaying & hallmarking center’s mark.
- Jeweler’s identification mark.
These details ensure full transparency—allowing you to verify purity, trace the source, and confirm that the gold meets national standards.
What is Non-Hallmarked Gold?
“Non-hallmarked gold” refers to jewelry or gold items not tested or certified by BIS-authorized centers.
Although it may look beautiful and shiny, there’s no guarantee of purity. The gold could be lower than the claimed karat level, leading to:
- Reduced resale value
- Inaccurate purity claims
- Lack of trust and transparency
Without a hallmark, you’re relying solely on the seller’s word—which can be risky for long-term investment or resale.
Key Difference Between BIS Hallmarked Gold and Non-Hallmarked Gold
| Feature | BIS Hallmarked Gold | Non-Hallmarked Gold |
|---|---|---|
| Purity Certification | Tested and certified by BIS | Not certified |
| Transparency | Full details engraved | No guarantee |
| Trust Factor | Based on the seller’s claim | Based on seller’s claim |
| Resale Value | Higher resale due to purity assurance | Lower resale value |
| Buyer Safety | Legally protected | Risk of fraud or impurity |
| Recommended For | Investment & jewellery purchase | High-backed by the government |
How to Check BIS Hallmarked Gold And Non-Hallmarked Gold Online
You can easily verify your gold jewelry using the BIS CARE app, available on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Steps:
- Download the BIS CARE app.
- Enter the 6-digit Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID) number engraved on the jewelry.
- The app will display details such as purity, jeweler’s name, and hallmarking center—confirming its authenticity.
This ensures complete transparency and helps you shop with confidence.
Key Features of BIS Hallmarked Gold and Non-Hallmarked Gold Drawbacks
- Purity Assurance:
The BIS hallmark guarantees that the gold content is as claimed—for example, 22K (91.6%), 18K (75%), or 14K (58.5%). - Trusted Certification:
The BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) is the only government-approved body in India authorized to certify the purity of gold. - Laser Marking:
BIS Hallmarked jewellery includes laser-engraved marks for easy identification and verification. - Hallmark Components:
A BIS hallmarked gold item carries five main signs:- BIS logo
- Purity in karat (e.g., 22K916)
- Assaying and Hallmarking Centre’s mark
- Jeweller’s identification mark
- Year of marking
Drawbacks of Non-Hallmarked Gold:
No Purity Guarantee:
The buyer has to rely solely on the seller’s word for gold purity.
Difficult Resale:
Non-hallmarked jewelry often has lower resale value, as buyers or jewelers cannot verify its exact purity.
Possibility of Impurities:
The gold may contain a higher percentage of other metals, making it less valuable.
No Legal Protection:
If there’s a dispute about purity, you cannot claim or verify without BIS certification.
Why You Should Always Choose BIS Hallmarked Gold, and Non-Hallmarked Gold Should Not Be Chosen
- Purity Guarantee – Tested and verified by BIS-approved labs.
- Higher Resale Value – Certified gold fetches better prices.
- Transparency—You can easily identify purity and jewelry details.
- Legal Protection – BIS hallmarking is now mandatory in India for most gold jewelry.
- Customer Trust—It reflects a jeweler’s authenticity and reputation.
How to Check if Your Gold is BIS Hallmarked And Non-Hallmarked Gold
- Look for a four-part hallmark (BIS logo, karat, jeweler ID, and hallmarking center mark).
- Use the BIS Care App to verify the jeweler and item details instantly.
- Purchase only from BIS-registered jewelers for complete assurance.
Conclusion For BIS Hallmarked And Non-Hallmarked Gold
Understanding the difference between BIS hallmarked and non-hallmarked gold is crucial for every gold buyer. Hallmarked jewelry assures purity, builds trust, and secures your investment, while non-hallmarked gold may lead to doubt and loss in value. Always check for the BIS mark before you buy—because true beauty in gold lies not just in its shine, but in its certified authenticity.
At Sagari Jewellers, we offer only 100% BIS hallmarked gold jewelry, ensuring every piece meets the highest purity and quality standards. With our transparent pricing, certified craftsmanship, and timeless designs, you can buy with complete confidence—because your trust is our most precious hallmark.