How to Verify Your Gold Authenticity: Checking Hallmarks & Certifications

A step-by-step guide to confirming your gold jewellery is genuine — whether it's newly purchased or passed down.

Authenticity is the single most important factor when buying or holding gold. Counterfeit or under-karated pieces can cost you significantly at resale, and without knowing what to check, most buyers have no way to catch it. This guide covers exactly how to verify gold authenticity — for both freshly hallmarked jewellery and older pieces that may not carry a mark at all.

📊 Quick Summary: Verification Methods at a Glance

Method	Best For	What It Confirms	Where To Do It
BIS Hallmark + HUID Check	Newly purchased jewellery	Certified purity grade & traceability	BIS Care app
Official Assay Certificate	Any purchase, especially high-value	Exact weight, karat, and HUID on record	At time of purchase
Magnet Test	Old or unmarked gold	Rules out iron-heavy fake alloys	At home
Nitric Acid Test	Old or unmarked gold	Reaction confirms approximate purity	Jeweller or lab only
BIS Assaying & Hallmarking Centre	Inherited or undocumented gold	Official lab-tested purity certificate	BIS-recognized centre

1. Check the BIS Hallmark & 6-Digit HUID Code

Certified gold sold in India carries a three-part BIS mark: the BIS logo, the purity grade (e.g., 22K916), and a unique 6-digit alphanumeric HUID (Hallmark Unique Identification) code.

Locate the mark: Usually stamped on the inner band of rings, the clasp of chains and bracelets, or a discreet section of earrings.
Verify the HUID: Enter the code into the official BIS Care app to pull up the assaying centre's details and confirm it's registered.
Cross-check the purity grade: Make sure the stamped grade (916, 750, 585) matches what you were told at purchase.

2. Request an Official Assay Certificate

Always ask for a documented receipt stating the exact weight, karat value, and HUID code of the piece. This paperwork is what lets you or a future buyer confirm the item's specifications quickly, without re-testing, and it strengthens your position if a purity dispute ever comes up at resale or exchange.

3. What If Your Gold Has No Hallmark?

Older jewellery, inherited pieces, or gold bought before hallmarking was mandatory often carries no BIS mark at all. In these cases, a hallmark check isn't possible — but you still have reliable options:

Magnet Test (preliminary only): Genuine gold is not magnetic. If a piece is strongly attracted to a magnet, it likely contains iron-based fillers. This test can rule out obvious fakes but can't confirm exact purity.
Nitric Acid Test: A small scratch is exposed to nitric acid; the reaction indicates approximate purity. This test should only be performed by a professional, since it can damage the piece if done incorrectly.
Visit a BIS-Recognized Assaying & Hallmarking Centre: This is the most reliable option for unmarked gold. The centre tests the piece and issues an official purity certificate, after which the item can also be hallmarked if you choose.

💡 Why Verification Protects You

At the time of purchase: Confirms you're paying the correct price for the actual purity you're receiving.
At the time of resale or exchange: A documented purity record speeds up valuation and reduces disputes over karat value.
For inherited or undocumented gold: Establishes a verified purity baseline before you sell, exchange, or insure the piece.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

How do I check if my gold is hallmarked?

Look for the BIS logo, a purity grade such as 916 or 750, and a 6-digit HUID code stamped on the piece, usually on the inner band, clasp, or a discreet edge. You can verify the HUID code using the official BIS Care app.

What is a HUID number?

A HUID (Hallmark Unique Identification) number is a unique 6-digit alphanumeric code assigned to each piece of BIS-hallmarked gold jewellery, allowing it to be traced back to the specific assaying centre that certified it.

Can I verify gold authenticity without a hallmark?

Yes. Unmarked or older gold can be tested using a preliminary magnet test at home, a professional nitric acid test, or by visiting a BIS-recognized Assaying and Hallmarking Centre for an official purity certificate.

Is the magnet test a reliable way to check gold?

The magnet test is only a preliminary check. It can help rule out pieces with obvious iron-based fillers, since real gold isn't magnetic, but it cannot confirm exact purity. A lab test or assaying centre visit is needed for a definitive result.

Why should I ask for an assay certificate when buying gold?

An assay certificate records the exact weight, karat value, and HUID code of your piece, giving you documented proof of its specifications that speeds up future resale, exchange, or insurance valuation.

What should I do with inherited gold that has no certification?

Take it to a BIS-recognized Assaying and Hallmarking Centre. The centre can test the piece, issue an official purity certificate, and hallmark it if desired, establishing a verified record before you sell, exchange, or insure it.