With Diwali and Dhanteras approaching, many buyers plan to purchase silver items such as coins, jewelry, utensils, or puja articles. However, experts advise not to decide based solely on price or design. It is crucial to check the purity, hallmark, and purchase bill to avoid buying fake or low-quality silver products.
Understanding Silver Purity Marks
Silver is sold in different purity levels, commonly marked as 999, 925, and 800. These numbers indicate the amount of pure silver present per 1,000 parts. For example, 999 silver contains 99.9% pure silver and is usually used for investment coins and bars due to its high purity.
On the other hand, 925 silver, also called sterling silver, has 92.5% silver, with the remaining 7.5% typically made up of copper or other metals. This blend strengthens the silver, making it more suitable for everyday jewelry. Meanwhile, 800 silver has 80% purity and is traditionally used in anklets and certain puja items.
What Does Hallmarking Mean for Silver Buyers?
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) recognizes several purity grades for silver, including 800, 835, 900, 925, 958, 970, 990, and 999. Though higher purity may not always be better for every item since pure silver is softer and prone to scratches or deformation. Hallmarking helps verify this purity by stamping a certificate on the item.
Unlike gold, hallmarking of silver is currently voluntary, which means silver products without a hallmark can still be legally sold in the market. However, buyers should look for hallmark signs such as the BIS logo, the word SILVER, the purity number (800, 925, or 999), and a 6-digit HUID (Hallmark Unique Identification) code. From September 1, 2025, a revised hallmark standard will require all silver hallmarked items to have this unique code.
Checking Silver Hallmark via BIS CARE App
Consumers can verify the authenticity of their silver purchases by using the BIS CARE app. The process involves downloading the app, selecting the HUID verification option, entering the six-digit HUID code printed on the silver item, and matching the displayed details with the product.
According to Mahendra Bhargava, an experienced business and automobile journalist currently associated with TV9 Bharatvarsh, understanding these purity marks and why hallmarking matters is key for safe Diwali purchases. His expertise adds perspective on the importance of verifying silver quality amid festive buying.
Following these guidelines can help shoppers avoid counterfeit silver products and make informed decisions. Careful verification ensures buyers get genuine, high-quality silver items valued both for investment and traditional purposes.
