Mumbai: After implementing mandatory hallmarking for gold, the Indian government is moving towards ensuring purity standards for silver as well. Starting September 1, 2025, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) will introduce hallmarking for silver under the new Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID) system. Initially, hallmarking for silver will remain optional, but it is expected to become mandatory later—similar to gold jewelry.
Currently, hallmarking is not mandatory for silver or silver artifacts, which has led to rampant adulteration–particularly in silver coins, utensils, and idols. In many cases, the level of adulteration ranges from 20-30% and can go up to 80%. This has resulted in significant losses for consumers, prompting long-standing demands for a hallmarking system for silver as well.
However, due to a lack of sufficient hallmarking centers across the country, it was previouslv difficult to implement such a system. Last year, the central government asked BIS to assess thẹ practical challenges. Now, BIS is set to launch the HUID marking scheme for silver artifacts starting September 2025. According to sources, the rollout will begin on a trial basis and become mandatory later, following the model used for gold hallmarking.
What is Hallmarking?
HUID (Hallmark Unique Identification) is a 6-digit alphanumeric code marked on jewelry by BIS-certified hallmarking centers after verifying the purity of the metal. This code serves as a certificate of authenticity for the amount of pure silver or gold in the item. It ensures that the carat or purity claimed by the seller is accurate. Currently, hallmarking for silver is voluntary, but with the new policy, it will become standardized. Notably, BIS-certified bullion refiners have already started voluntarily hallmarking silver bars and coins.
BIS and its Role
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), established in 1986 under the BIS Act, is a national standards body responsible for setting quality benchmarks for products and services across India.
Why This Matters: Benefits of Hallmarking Silver For Consumers
- Guarantee of Purity: Customers can be assured they’re buying genuine, pure silver.
- Transparency: Hallmarking brings clarity in pricing based on verified purity.
- Trust: Boosts consumer confidence in silver products.
- For Silver Traders: Business Growth: Trust in traders will rise, encouraging more investments in silver.
- Market Reputation: A standardized system enhances credibility and fosters long-term customer relationships.
- Building on Gold’s Success This move follows the successful implementation of mandatory gold hallmarking in June 2021, aimed at protecting consumers and ensuring authenticity in gold products. With silver now being brought under similar regulation, the government seeks to replicate that success and boost trust in silver as both a product and investment.