In a landmark move for India’s jewellery sector, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has announced that hallmarking of silver jewellery will become mandatory across the country starting September 1, 2025. The initiative, aimed at ensuring quality assurance and consumer protection, marks a significant step toward formalising and regulating the silver jewellery trade.
Hallmarking for gold has been mandatory in India for several years, and the extension of this requirement to silver comes amid growing consumer demand for transparency and authenticity in precious metal purchases.
Hallmarking Framework for Silver
According to BIS, the hallmarking process will apply to various silver purity grades, including 800, 900, 925, and 990. Each item will carry a 6-digit Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID) code, ensuring product traceability and establishing the purity of the silver.
Initially, the move may begin as a voluntary program, giving jewellers time to adapt, but will ultimately become compulsory. All registered jewellers will be required to hallmark their silver jewellery and artefacts through BIS-authorised hallmarking centres.
Industry Responds to the Move
While many in the industry see the decision as a long-overdue step toward standardisation, concerns around implementation remain. The India Bullion & Jewellers Association (IBJA) has appealed to BIS to allow self-hallmarking, similar to provisions in other global markets.
Jewellers argue that self-hallmarking could ease operational challenges, especially for small and medium-sized businesses, and avoid additional compliance costs. As of now, no official response has been issued by BIS regarding this proposal.
What It Means for Consumers and Retailers
For consumers, this new mandate means greater confidence in the quality of silver jewellery bought across India. For jewellers, it requires compliance readiness, including:
- Registering with BIS
- Coordinating with hallmarking centres
- Updating product labels and documentation
The move is also expected to bring more accountability into the silver market, reduce fraudulent sales, and align Indian hallmarking standards with international best practices.
A Shift in India’s Jewellery Landscape
This development comes as India’s jewellery market continues to evolve — with increased digital adoption, transparency initiatives, and rising demand for certified products. With silver increasingly becoming a lifestyle and investment choice for younger demographics, mandatory hallmarking is expected to boost market confidence.
JewelBharat.com will continue to monitor this space closely and bring exclusive insights, updates, and industry responses in the weeks ahead.
📌 Have thoughts on silver hallmarking or how it will impact your business? Write to us at editorial@jewelbharat.com.
This article is based on publicly available information from BIS and multiple industry news reports as of August 2025.
