How to check silver purity

1. Look for the BIS hallmark and HUID

A BIS-hallmarked silver item carries the BIS logo, a purity grade (such as 925 or 800) and a six-character alphanumeric HUID (Hallmark Unique Identification). Since September 2025 every hallmarked silver item must have a HUID. You can enter it in the BIS CARE app to see the item type, purity and the hallmarking centre that tested it.

Hallmarking of silver is still voluntary, so plenty of genuine silver has no hallmark. But a hallmark is the strongest assurance you can get at the counter. Read our hallmark guide.

2. Read the stamp

Many pieces carry a purity stamp such as "925", "STERLING", "999" or "800". A stamp alone proves little, since anyone can stamp metal, but a missing or oddly placed stamp on an expensive piece is worth asking about.

3. The magnet test

Silver isn't magnetic. Hold a strong magnet (a fridge magnet is too weak) to the piece: if it sticks, it's plated steel or another metal. If it doesn't stick, that's consistent with silver but not proof.

4. The ice test

Silver conducts heat better than almost any other metal. Put an ice cube on a silver coin or bar and it melts noticeably faster than on steel or glass. It works best on flat, heavy items.

5. The polish cloth

Rub the piece with a soft white cloth. Real silver often leaves black marks from tarnish (silver sulphide). Plated items may show a different colour underneath where the plating is worn.

6. The acid test (professional)

Jewellers use testing acids that change colour depending on silver content. It needs a small scratch, so it's for bullion and scrap rather than finished jewellery, and best left to a professional.

7. XRF testing

An X-ray fluorescence (XRF) machine measures the exact composition without damaging the piece. Many jewellers, refiners and hallmarking centres will test an item for a small fee in a few minutes. It is the only home-free way to tell 925 from 900 or 800 with confidence.

When you buy

• Ask for purity (999, 925, 900, 800) and net weight on the invoice.
• Prefer hallmarked pieces with a HUID you can verify.
• Compare the price with today's rate: ₹201.94 per gram for 925 silver, before making charges.
• Be wary of prices well below the metal value: they usually mean lower purity.