Buying gold is a big decision, so a quick HUID hallmark check is worth the minute it takes. Every hallmarked piece carries a unique six character code, and the BIS Care app can tell you who tested it and what purity it has. Here is how to use it before you pay.
Quick answer
- Look for three marks: the BIS logo, a purity mark and the HUID.
- HUID stands for Hallmark Unique Identification, a six digit alphanumeric code.
- Enter it in the BIS Care app to see the jeweller, testing centre and purity.
- Match the app details to your bill before you leave the shop.
The three marks to look for
According to the Department of Consumer Affairs, as cited by Millennium Post, hallmarked jewellery carries the BIS logo, a symbol showing purity and fineness, and the HUID. A small magnifier helps, because the marks are tiny.
Purity is usually written as a carat and fineness pair. For example, 22K916 means 22 carat gold with 91.6% pure gold. Similarly, 18K750 means 18 carat gold.
Steps for a HUID hallmark check on BIS Care
- Download the BIS Care app. The report says it works on Android through the Play Store.
- Enter the six digit HUID printed on your piece.
- Read the details the app returns.
The app shows the jeweller who hallmarked the piece and their registration number. It also shows the assessing centre’s name, number and location, the item details, the hallmarking date and the purity of the gold.
Why the check matters
The app was built after complaints about impure gold. One official said some customers were sold 18 carat gold at the price of 22 carat. So matching the purity on the app to your bill protects you from paying for gold you did not get.
What to ask your jeweller
Ask for a bill that lists the purity and the HUID of each piece. Then run the check in the shop, not later. If the details do not match, ask for an explanation, and keep the bill if you need to complain.
Also, the same habit works beyond jewellery. Our guides to the pressure cooker ISI mark and to checking an FSSAI licence number show how to verify other everyday purchases.
A simple checklist for the shop
Before you pay, run through four quick checks. First, look for the BIS logo, the purity mark and the HUID on each piece. Second, ask the jeweller to write the purity and HUID on the bill. Third, enter the code in the BIS Care app while you are still at the counter. Fourth, compare every detail with the bill.
Also, notice small things. The hallmarking date on the app should make sense for the piece, and the jeweller’s name should match the shop or its registered supplier. If something looks odd, ask politely before you complete the purchase.
After you buy
Keep the bill, and take a photo of the hallmark on each piece. Store them together, because you may need both if you sell, exchange or insure the jewellery later. In addition, avoid scratching or polishing the marks off when you clean the piece at home.
Common mistakes
People often check only the carat stamp and skip the HUID. Others forget that each piece has its own code, so a set of earrings and a necklace need separate checks. In short, verify every item, every time.
FAQ
What is a HUID number on gold jewellery?
It is the Hallmark Unique Identification, a six digit alphanumeric code. It links your piece to the jeweller and testing centre that hallmarked it.
How do I verify gold purity with BIS Care?
Open the BIS Care app and enter the HUID printed on your jewellery. It shows the purity, hallmarking date, jeweller and assessing centre.
What does 22K916 mean?
It means 22 carat gold with a fineness of 916, or 91.6% pure gold. Compare it with the purity on your bill.
