India’s Gold Hallmarking Fee Rises 67%: What Jewellery Buyers Need to Know

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India’s mandatory gold hallmarking fee has risen by approximately 67%, increasing from ₹45 to ₹75 per gold article. The revised charge took effect on September 14, 2026, ahead of the country’s peak festive and wedding buying season.

Gold hallmarking fee rises to ₹75

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) introduced the revised rates under the Hallmarking Amendment Regulations. The fee applies to gold articles submitted to licensed Assaying and Hallmarking Centres, with a minimum charge of ₹200 per consignment.

Jewellery stocks react

Retail jewellery shares came under pressure in early trading. PC Jeweller declined as much as 8%, while Senco Gold fell 3%, Thangamayil Jewellery slipped 2.8%, and Kalyan Jewellers declined 1.67%.

The All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council has appealed for an immediate review, arguing that the flat ₹30 increase may disproportionately affect small manufacturers and lightweight jewellery lines.

What hallmarking certifies

Hallmarking is the official testing and laser engraving of precious metals to certify fineness and purity. Gold is alloyed with metals such as copper, silver, or zinc because pure gold is too soft for most jewellery designs.

Modern BIS-certified gold jewellery carries three key markings:

BIS logo: confirms testing at a recognized centre.
Purity and karatage: 22K916 indicates 22-karat gold with 91.6% fineness.
HUID code: a unique six-character alphanumeric identity for the individual article.

How HUID verification works

The HUID code links each ornament to a BIS database record. Consumers can enter or scan the code in the BIS CARE App to verify the item independently.

Operational rules for jewellers and buyers

Mandatory gold hallmarking currently covers 392 districts.
Commercial grades include 14K (585), 18K (750), 20K (833), 22K (916), 23K (958), and 24K (995/999).
Articles under 2 grams, pure bullion bars, export jewellery, and raw manufacturing components are exempt under the stated rules.
Silver hallmarking remains voluntary nationwide; hallmarked silver items must carry a HUID under IS 2112:2025.

What it could mean for shoppers

The final consumer impact will depend on whether retailers absorb the revised fee or reflect it in making charges. Buyers should continue checking the BIS logo, purity marking, and HUID before completing a purchase.

Sources

Business Today, Livemint, Hindustan Times, and Zee News. Source links were supplied with the original article.

This article is for general information and does not constitute investment or legal advice.