Buying gold jewellery in India and not sure what those tiny stamped numbers mean? You are not alone. The small marks on your ring or necklace actually tell you a lot about what you are paying for.
This guide breaks down every gold hallmark you will commonly see, what each one means, and how to verify you are getting genuine gold.
What Is a Gold Hallmark?
A gold hallmark is an official stamp that certifies the purity of the gold used in a piece of jewellery. In India, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) regulates this under the BIS Hallmarking scheme, which became mandatory for gold jewellery sellers in 2021.
Think of it as a quality certificate stamped directly onto the metal.
Gold Purity Marks: What Each Number Means
Gold purity is measured in karats (K) or as a three-digit fineness number. Here is how they map to each other:
|
Karat |
Fineness Mark |
Gold Purity |
Common Use |
|
24K |
999 |
99.9% |
Coins, bars |
|
22K |
916 |
91.6% |
Traditional jewellery |
|
18K |
750 |
75% |
Fine jewellery, diamond settings |
|
14K |
585 |
58.5% |
Everyday jewellery |
|
10K |
417 |
41.7% |
Budget accessories |
The 833 mark means 83.3% pure gold, equivalent to roughly 20K. You will find this on some European pieces, but it is less common in India.
At House of Quadri, all our lab-grown diamond jewellery is set in 18K gold (fineness 750), which is the preferred standard for fine jewellery. It offers the right balance of purity, durability, and lasting colour.
Approximate Gold Price by Purity (2026 Reference)
Prices vary daily with market rates. Use this as a reference for understanding value differences across purities.
|
Purity |
Fineness |
Approx. Rate per gram (INR) |
|
24K |
999 |
Highest (benchmark rate) |
|
22K |
916 |
~91.6% of 24K rate |
|
18K |
750 |
~75% of 24K rate |
|
14K |
585 |
~58.5% of 24K rate |
Always check live rates on the MCX or your jeweller's published rate card before purchasing.
How to Read a BIS Hallmark
Since September 2021, BIS has introduced the HUID (Hallmark Unique ID) system. Every hallmarked piece now carries a 6-character alphanumeric code that can be traced back to the jeweller and assaying centre.
A complete BIS hallmark has three components:
- BIS logo (a triangle mark)
- Purity/fineness number (e.g., 750 for 18K)
- 6-digit HUID code (e.g. AB1234)
You can verify any piece by entering the HUID on the BIS Care app or the official BIS website.
How to Verify Gold Hallmarks at Home
You do not need to go to a lab to do a basic check. Here are three quick ways:
1. Look for the BIS triangle: Use a magnifying glass. The BIS logo is a small triangle. If it is missing, the piece is likely not officially hallmarked.
2. Check the fineness number: Match it to the table above. A piece sold as "18K" should show 750.
3. Verify HUID online: Enter the 6-character code at bicare.bis.gov.in. The registry will confirm the metal, purity, and registered jeweller.
4. Go to an assaying centre: For high-value purchases, an independent BIS-certified assaying centre can test purity with precision.
18K vs 22K: Which Should You Choose?
This is the most common question when buying jewellery in India.
22K (916) is softer, more yellow, and traditionally preferred for plain gold jewellery like bangles and chains. It is closer to pure gold in colour and feel.
18K (750) is harder, more durable, and ideal when the piece has gemstone settings. If you are buying lab-grown diamond rings or any diamond jewellery, 18K is the better choice because it holds prong and bezel settings far more securely.
Does Gold Purity Affect Diamond Settings?
Yes, it does. Lower karat gold is softer and may not hold stone settings as firmly over time. This is one reason fine jewellery brands, including House of Quadri, use 18K as the standard for diamond jewellery collections. The metal is strong enough to protect the setting without compromising on gold content.
If you have ever wondered about other quality markers beyond gold purity, our diamond education guide covers the 4Cs in detail, which matter as much as the metal when evaluating jewellery value.
Conclusion
Gold hallmarks tell you exactly what you are paying for. Always check for the BIS triangle, fineness number, and HUID code before buying.
At House of Quadri, every piece is crafted in solid 18K hallmarked gold. Browse our lab-grown diamond collections to shop with confidence or book your appointment today for expert guidance on finding the perfect piece.
FAQs
What does 833 gold mean?
833 gold is 83.3% pure, roughly 20K. It is a European standard, not commonly used in Indian jewellery.
Is BIS hallmarking mandatory in India?
Yes. Since June 2021, BIS hallmarking has been mandatory for all gold jewellery sold in India. HUID codes became compulsory from September 2021.
How do I verify gold hallmarks using the BIS app?
Download the BIS Care app, go to hallmark verification, and enter the 6-character HUID code stamped on your piece.
What is the difference between 916 and 750 gold?
916 is 22K (91.6% pure), softer and more yellow. 750 is 18K (75% pure), harder and better for diamond jewellery settings.
Can a gold hallmark wear off?
Yes, on heavily worn pieces over many years. Visit a BIS-certified assaying centre for a retest if needed.
Is 18K gold good for daily wear?
Yes. 18K gold is durable, holds settings securely, and is the standard used in all House of Quadri jewellery.