Is Hallmarking of 9 Karat Gold Now Mandatory?
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Synopsis
The BIS has made a significant move by mandating hallmarking for 9 karat gold starting in July 2025. This decision not only enhances consumer trust but also appeals to younger buyers seeking affordable gold. With additional districts being brought into the hallmarking fold, this initiative promises to transform the gold jewellery market.
Key Takeaways
- Mandatory hallmarking for 9 karat gold begins in July 2025.
- Hallmarking increases consumer trust in gold purchases.
- Over 40 crore gold items have been hallmarked with a unique HUID.
- The initiative aims to reduce chain-snatching incidents.
- More districts are being included in the hallmarking process.
New Delhi, July 18 (NationPress) - The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) declared on Friday that, starting from July 2025, hallmarking of 9 karat gold will become mandatory. Hallmarking, which is regulated by the BIS Act of 2016, verifies the percentage of precious metals in jewellery and artifacts, allowing consumers to ascertain purity before making a purchase.
The updated mandatory hallmarking grades now include 9K, in addition to the existing categories of 14KT, 18KT, 20KT, 22KT, 23KT, and 24KT gold.
Jewellers and hallmarking centres must adhere to this new regulation regarding 9 karat gold, as stated by the All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council in a post on X.
According to the council, “Nine Karat Gold (375 ppt) is officially included in the mandatory hallmarking as per BIS Amendment No. 2. All jewellers and hallmarking centres are required to comply.”
This initiative to make hallmarking mandatory for 9-karat gold jewellery is largely influenced by the increasing demand for affordable gold jewellery among younger consumers, as well as the aim to reduce incidents of chain-snatching by making gold items easier to trace.
Consumers are increasingly opting for 9K-karat gold as higher-grade gold has become prohibitively expensive. Moreover, it offers greater flexibility in jewellery design.
Over 40 crore gold jewellery items have been assigned a unique HUID, which enhances trust and transparency for consumers in the marketplace.
The Bureau of Indian Standards will commence the fourth phase of mandatory hallmarking under the Hallmarking of Gold Jewellery and Gold Artefacts Amendment Order, 2024 starting November 5, 2024.
During this phase, hallmarking centres have been established in an additional 18 districts, bringing the total districts under mandatory hallmarking to 361.
The BIS previously initiated the first phase of mandatory hallmarking on June 23, 2021, covering 256 districts. The second phase began on April 4, 2022, adding 32 districts, followed by the third phase, which was launched on September 6, 2023, incorporating 55 newly added districts.
Point of View
I see the BIS's decision to include 9 karat gold in mandatory hallmarking as a timely response to consumer demand for affordable gold jewellery, particularly among younger demographics. This initiative reflects a commitment to transparency and consumer protection, ensuring that all transactions in the gold market are trustworthy.
NationPress
21/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is hallmarking for gold?
Hallmarking is a certification process that verifies the purity of gold in jewellery and artifacts, ensuring consumers know what they are purchasing.
Why has 9 karat gold been included in hallmarking?
The inclusion of 9 karat gold aims to cater to the growing demand for affordable gold jewellery and enhance consumer trust.
When will the mandatory hallmarking for 9 karat gold begin?
The mandatory hallmarking for 9 karat gold will begin in July 2025.
How many districts are now covered under mandatory hallmarking?
A total of 361 districts are now covered under mandatory hallmarking.
What is the significance of the unique HUID?
The unique HUID assigned to gold jewellery enhances transparency and trust for consumers in the market.
