Diwali 2026: How to Check Gold Purity and Avoid Jewellery Scams

Here The Detailed Artical How to Check Gold Purity and Avoid Jewellery Scams

Dhanteras is one of the most popular occasions for buying gold in India. Many families purchase gold jewellery, coins or other precious items as part of their Diwali celebrations. However, when gold is expensive, even a small difference in purity can lead to a significant financial loss.

Before buying gold this Dhanteras, customers should look beyond attractive designs and festive discounts. Checking the hallmark, verifying the HUID number and understanding the final bill can help you avoid common jewellery scams.

Here is a simple guide to buying gold safely during Diwali 2026.

1. Check the BIS Hallmark Before Buying Gold

The first step is to check whether the gold jewellery carries a genuine Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) hallmark. This marking provides assurance about the stated purity of the gold.

BIS-hallmarked gold jewellery should carry three important markings:

• BIS logo: Identifies the official hallmark.
• Purity mark: Shows the gold’s caratage and fineness.
• Six-character HUID: A unique Hallmark Unique Identification code for the jewellery article.

For example, 22K916 means the gold is 22 carat, with a fineness of 916 parts per thousand, or 91.6% gold. Similarly, 18K750 indicates 75% gold content.

Do not rely only on a stamp that looks genuine. Fake markings can be copied, so verify the HUID before making payment.

2. Verify the HUID Number Using the BIS Care App

One of the easiest ways to check hallmarked jewellery is through the official BIS Care app.

Follow these steps:

1. Open the official BIS Care app on your smartphone.
2. Select the “Verify HUID” option.
3. Enter the six-character code engraved on the jewellery.
4. Check the purity and other details displayed.
5. Match the information with the actual jewellery before purchasing it.

If the details do not match, ask the jeweller for an explanation and avoid completing the purchase until the issue is resolved.

You can also visit the official BIS website for information about hallmarking and consumer protection.

3. Understand the Difference Between 22K and 24K Gold

Gold purity matters because it directly affects the value of your purchase.

Pure gold is relatively soft, which makes it less suitable for many everyday jewellery designs. Other metals are mixed with gold to improve strength and durability.

Remember that the appropriate purity depends on the product. Always check the actual fineness marking instead of assuming that every gold ornament has the same purity.

4. Avoid These Common Jewellery Scams

Festive offers can be attractive, but buyers should be careful about deals that appear too good to be true.

Fake hallmark: A seller may use misleading purity stamps. Verify the HUID independently rather than trusting the stamp alone.

Misleading discounts: A large discount on making charges does not automatically mean the overall deal is cheaper. Compare the gold rate, making charges, wastage charges, applicable GST and final price.

Incorrect weight: Jewellery containing gemstones or other decorative materials may have a total weight that differs from its actual gold weight. Ask for a clear breakdown.

Unclear exchange policies: Before buying, ask how much deduction will apply if you later exchange or sell the jewellery. Get the policy in writing.

Pressure to pay quickly: Avoid making payments before checking the hallmark, invoice details and seller credentials. Be especially cautious with unknown online sellers and unverified social media offers.

5. Check the Bill Before Leaving the Shop

A proper invoice is important if you need to raise a complaint later.

Before paying, check that the bill clearly records the jewellery description, net precious-metal weight, purity and applicable charges. Also review the gold rate, making charges and final payable amount.

Keep the invoice and payment receipt safely. If you purchase earrings or jewellery with detachable parts, check the hallmark requirements for each relevant article or component.

Never assume that a BIS hallmark certifies diamonds or gemstones set in the jewellery. If you are buying diamond jewellery, ask for separate information and appropriate certification relating to the stones.

6. What If Hallmarked Gold Is Less Pure Than Promised?

If you suspect that hallmarked jewellery does not meet its stated purity, you can approach a BIS-recognised Assaying and Hallmarking Centre for testing.

BIS consumer protection rules provide for compensation if the tested jewellery is found to have lower purity than marked, subject to the applicable rules. Keep your invoice and testing report as evidence.

For consumer guidance, visit the official BIS consumer protection page.

Buying gold this Dhanteras can be a meaningful part of Diwali, but a little checking can protect your money. Verify the BIS hallmark and HUID, understand the gold purity, compare the complete price and always collect a detailed invoice.

A beautiful design may attract you, but verified purity and transparent pricing should guide your final decision.

Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only. Gold prices fluctuate, and jewellery purchases involve additional charges. Verify product details and applicable rules before making a purchase.