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Understanding gold hallmark stamps and markings
Gold jewellery often carries small marks or symbols that tell you about its purity. These marks can help you check the quality of gold before buying, selling or using it as collateral for a loan against gold.
In India, gold hallmarking is regulated by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). A hallmark shows that the purity of the gold has been tested under the applicable hallmarking standards.
Understanding these marks can help you make a more informed decision when buying or valuing gold.
What is hallmark stamp?
If you are wondering, "what is hallmark stamp?", it is a mark placed on gold jewellery to indicate that its purity has been tested under the applicable BIS hallmarking system.
A hallmark helps you identify the purity of the gold you are buying. You may see a purity mark such as 22K or 916 on gold jewellery. These marks indicate the gold's purity or fineness.
For example:
- 22K gold is commonly marked as 916, indicating 91.6% purity.
- 18K gold is commonly marked as 750, indicating 75% purity.
Checking the hallmark and purity mark can help you understand the gold content of your jewellery before buying or selling it.
What are gold markings and what do they mean?
If you are asking, "what are gold markings?", they are numbers, letters or symbols found on gold jewellery that provide information about its purity and other identifying details.
The purity marking helps you understand how much pure gold the item contains. For example, 22K and 916 indicate 22-carat gold and 91.6% purity, respectively. Similarly, 18K and 750 indicate 18-carat gold and 75% purity.
You can check these markings along with the hallmark to better understand your jewellery's purity. Higher purity gold generally contains a higher proportion of pure gold by weight, which can affect its assessed value.
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What is the stamp for 18K gold?
The commonly used purity stamp for 18K gold is 750. This means the gold contains 75% pure gold, while the remaining portion consists of other metals used to make the jewellery more durable.
When checking 18K gold jewellery, look for the applicable hallmark and purity marking. The 750 mark helps you identify the gold as 18-carat or 75% pure.
The purity of gold is an important factor when its value is assessed. However, the final value can also depend on factors such as net gold weight and the applicable gold price.
How to identify a hallmark on gold jewellery
You can check your gold jewellery for the applicable hallmark and purity marking to understand its purity. The markings may be small, so you may need to look closely or ask a jeweller to help you identify them.
Common purity markings include:
- 22K or 916 for 22-carat gold
- 18K or 750 for 18-carat gold
A BIS hallmark helps indicate that the gold has been tested under the applicable hallmarking standards. Checking these marks can give you greater clarity about the gold you own or plan to buy.
What are the markings for white gold?
If you are wondering, "what are the markings for white gold?", the markings generally indicate its purity in the same way as other gold jewellery.
For example, 18K white gold may carry a 750 purity mark, indicating 75% gold content. White gold may also have other identifying marks depending on the jewellery and applicable marking requirements.
White gold is an alloy made by combining gold with other metals. Its colour is different from traditional yellow gold, but its purity can still be indicated through marks such as 18K or 750.
You can learn more about white gold and how it differs from other types of gold.
Checking the purity marking and applicable hallmark can help you understand the quality of your white gold jewellery.
Why do hallmark stamps matter when valuing gold?
A hallmark can help confirm the tested purity of gold, which is an important factor when its value is assessed. However, a hallmark alone does not determine the value of your gold.
For a gold loan, the assessed value depends on factors such as the gold's purity, net gold weight and applicable gold price. The eligible loan amount is then determined based on the applicable loan-to-value limit.
This means checking your gold's hallmark and purity markings can help you understand the gold you own, but the final value is determined through the applicable valuation process.
Key things to remember about gold hallmarks
- Check the hallmark and purity marking before buying gold jewellery.
- 22K gold is commonly marked as 916, while 18K gold is commonly marked as 750.
- Gold markings help you understand the purity and gold content of an item.
- White gold can also carry purity markings such as 18K or 750.
- A hallmark helps verify tested purity but does not by itself determine the market value or gold loan amount.
Pro tip: Have idle gold lying at home? You may be able to use eligible gold jewellery, ornaments or coins as collateral for a Bajaj Finance Gold Loan. Apply now to check your eligibility.
How do hallmark stamps and gold markings influence gold loans?
Hallmark stamps and gold markings help lenders check the purity and value of gold when you apply for a loan against gold. A hallmark issued under the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) confirms the purity of gold and helps ensure that it meets the required standards.
The purity of gold can affect the loan amount you may be eligible for and the applicable gold loan rate. Gold markings, such as the carat or purity mark, also help assess the gold’s value and support the gold loan eligibility assessment.
Gold without a clear hallmark or purity mark may require additional verification, as its purity cannot be easily confirmed.
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Why do hallmark stamps matter?
Hallmark stamps are more than just symbols on gold; they are a testament to the metal's authenticity and purity. In a market where gold is both a treasured possession and a significant investment, these stamps provide the much-needed assurance of quality. For consumers in India, hallmark stamps offer peace of mind, knowing that the gold they are purchasing meets stringent standards set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). Moreover, in financial contexts such as gold loans, these stamps play a critical role in determining the value and eligibility of the gold. Without a hallmark, the gold's authenticity can be questioned, potentially leading to a lower valuation. Therefore, whether buying, selling, or using gold as collateral, hallmark stamps are indispensable in maintaining trust and ensuring fair transactions in the gold market.
How to apply for a gold loan
In India, applying for a Bajaj Finance Gold Loan is quick and convenient. Just visit the nearest branch with your eligible gold jewellery, ornaments or coins and valid KYC documents. The team will check the purity and weight of your gold, calculate your eligible loan amount, and process it on the spot. Most of the time, the loan amount is disbursed to your account on the same day, so you can walk out with funds ready when you need them. For added convenience, you can also apply online, vis the Bajaj Finance App or website.
Turn your gold into instant support—handle any expense with ease. Check your gold loan eligibility and access funds when you need them most.
Frequently asked question
Gold Value
Gold Markings
Yes, hallmark stamps can increase the price of gold in India. Hallmarked gold is certified for its purity and authenticity by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), ensuring that it meets specific quality standards. This certification builds trust among buyers, making hallmarked gold more desirable. As a result, it often commands a higher price compared to non-hallmarked gold, as consumers are willing to pay a premium for the assurance of quality and authenticity that hallmarking provides.
Yes, as per BIS regulations, hallmarking is mandatory in India for gold jewellery. Bajaj Finance relies on these markings to ensure transparency and accuracy while evaluating pledged ornaments.
Yes, with wear and tear, gold markings may fade. However, Bajaj Finance uses non-destructive assaying techniques to assess purity even if the original stamp is unclear or partially worn out.
A hallmark stamp is an official mark certifying the purity and authenticity of gold and other precious metals, issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). It typically includes the BIS logo, purity grade, jeweller's identification mark, and hallmarking centre's mark. This stamp is crucial as it guarantees the metal's quality, ensuring buyers receive what they pay for. In India, hallmarking builds trust, prevents fraud, and plays a significant role in the valuation of gold.
Gold markings indicate the purity and authenticity of the gold. Common markings include "24K" for 99.9% pure gold, "22K" for 91.6% pure gold, and "18K" for 75% pure gold. Another marking, "916," also represents 22-carat gold. These markings help buyers verify the gold's quality and value. Additionally, hallmark stamps from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) include the BIS logo, the jeweller’s identification mark, and the hallmarking centre’s mark, ensuring the gold meets prescribed purity standards.
When examining white gold, look for specific markings that indicate its purity and authenticity. These include the carat weight, such as "18K" or "750," signifying the gold's purity, with "18K" meaning 75% pure gold. Additionally, look for stamps like "WG," which stands for white gold, and possibly a manufacturer's mark. Ensure that the piece also carries a hallmark stamp from an authorised body like the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to guarantee quality and authenticity.
Gold markings are stamps or engravings on gold ornaments that indicate the purity of gold, such as 22K or 18K. These help verify the gold’s authenticity during the valuation process when applying for a Bajaj Finance gold loan.
White gold typically carries the same purity markings as yellow gold, like 18K or 750, along with possible manufacturer or BIS hallmarks. Bajaj Finance accepts white gold for valuation if it meets purity and documentation criteria.
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Bajaj Finance Limited (BFL) has the sole and absolute discretion, without assigning any reason to accept or reject any application as per BFL policy. *