Guide
BIS silver hallmark guide
A hallmark is the Bureau of Indian Standards' guarantee that a piece of silver is as pure as it says. Here is how to read one, and what changed in 2025–26.
On this page
What a silver hallmark looks like
BIS logo
The triangular Bureau of Indian Standards mark, showing the item was tested at a BIS-recognised assaying and hallmarking centre.
Purity grade
A number showing parts per thousand of silver, for example 925 (sterling) or 800. Pure silver is 999.
HUID
A unique six-character alphanumeric code for that item. It links the piece to its test record.
What changed in 2025 and 2026
In September 2025 the government introduced HUID-based digital hallmarking for silver jewellery and artefacts: a jeweller doesn't have to hallmark silver, but if it is hallmarked it must carry a HUID. Reports since then show a sharp rise in the number of silver items getting HUIDs.
In June 2026 BIS said it is studying the practical challenges of making silver hallmarking mandatory and intends to move gradually. No date has been announced, so for now hallmarked silver is something to ask for rather than something you can assume.
How to verify a HUID
- Install the BIS CARE app (Android or iOS).
- Choose "Verify HUID".
- Enter the code from the piece or the invoice.
- Check that the article type and purity match what you are buying.
Why hallmarks matter for price
Silver jewellery is priced on its silver content. A piece stamped 925 but actually 800 contains about 14% less silver, so paying the 925 rate means overpaying. Today 925 silver is worth ₹201.94 per gram and 800 silver ₹174.66, before making charges. A verified hallmark removes the guesswork.
Frequently asked questions
Is BIS hallmarking mandatory for silver jewellery?
No, not as of September 2026. It is mandatory for most gold jewellery, but voluntary for silver. What became compulsory in September 2025 is that any hallmarked silver item must carry a HUID.
How do I verify a silver HUID?
Install the BIS CARE app, choose "Verify HUID" and enter the six-character code. It shows the article type, purity and the hallmarking centre.
Does hallmarking change the silver price?
The metal price is the same, but hallmarking adds a small testing fee that the jeweller may pass on. For resale, a hallmarked piece is easier to value.
Sources
Rules and figures checked on 29 September 2026. Live prices update on this page automatically.