How to Verify Gold Hallmark (HUID) on the BIS Care App Before Dhanteras

What is HUID?

HUID stands for Hallmark Unique Identification. It is a six-character code made of letters and numbers, such as AB12C3, laser-marked on each piece when it is tested at a BIS-recognised Assaying and Hallmarking Centre (AHC).

Hallmarking of gold jewellery became mandatory from June 23, 2021. Since April 1, 2023, jewellers may sell only pieces carrying the six-character HUID hallmark. Older four-mark hallmarks are no longer valid for new sales. Small items weighing under 2 grams are exempt.

The three marks to look for

1. BIS standard mark: a small triangle logo.
2. Purity grade: the carat and fineness, for example 22K916 (91.6% gold), 18K750 (75%) or 14K585 (58.5%).
3. HUID: the six-character code.

The marks are tiny. Ask the jeweller for a magnifier. On necklaces they are often near the hook; on earrings, on the stud or back; on bangles, on the inner surface.

How to verify HUID on the BIS Care app

1. Install the right app. Search for BIS Care on the Play Store or App Store and check that the publisher is Bureau of Indian Standards. Ignore lookalike apps.
2. Open "Verify HUID". It is on the home screen. You do not need to log in to verify a code.
3. Enter the code exactly as engraved, letters and numbers together.
4. Search and read the record.

The record should show:

• the jeweller's registration number
• the hallmarking centre's name and registration number
• the type of article (ring, chain, bangle and so on)
• the purity
• the date of hallmarking

What should match

Compare the app with the piece and the bill:

• Article type: a chain should not show up as a ring.
• Purity: the app, the stamp and the bill must all say the same carat.
• Jeweller: the registration should belong to the shop, or to the manufacturer the shop names.

If everything matches, the hallmark is genuine. A stamp can be copied, but a fake code will not have a matching record in BIS's database.

What if the record doesn't match?

• Do not complete the purchase. Ask the jeweller to explain in writing.
• Complain in the app. BIS Care has a Complaints section where you can report a hallmark problem with photos and the bill.
• Already bought? Keep the bill. You can get the piece tested at a BIS-recognised hallmarking centre for a fee and use the report in your complaint.

What about old jewellery at home?

Jewellery you already own without an HUID is still yours to keep, wear, sell or exchange. The HUID rule applies to jewellers selling new pieces. When you exchange old gold, ask the jeweller to test it in front of you and write the purity and weight on the receipt.

Five more checks at the counter

• Ask for a bill that lists the net gold weight, purity, gold rate, making charges and HUID separately.
• GST is 3% on gold and 5% on making charges.
• Compare making charges, which can vary widely between shops.
• Weigh stones separately: you should not pay the gold rate for stones.
• Check the buy-back and exchange policy before you pay.

Our Dhanteras 2026 gold buying guide covers timing, making charges and digital alternatives in more detail.

This article is for information only and is not financial advice.

Common questions

Does HUID apply to silver? Hallmarking of silver is voluntary for now. The mandatory HUID rule covers gold jewellery and artefacts.

Do gold coins need HUID? Bank and mint coins carry their own purity certification. If you buy coins from a jeweller, ask for the hallmark and an invoice with the purity stated.

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