India may soon introduce mandatory hallmarking for silver and silver artifacts, as per Food and Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi. Speaking at the 78th Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Foundation Day event, Joshi urged the BIS to explore this possibility, citing rising consumer demand for quality assurance in silver products.

India's Food and Consumer Affairs Minister has proposed making hallmarking mandatory for silver, following growing consumer demands for greater quality assurance. The move aligns with the government's ongoing efforts to enhance transparency and build trust in the precious metals market. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is set to deliberate on the feasibility and implications of extending its hallmarking system to silver products, potentially mirroring the success seen with gold hallmarking. If implemented, this step could ensure consistent quality standards, protect consumer interests, and boost confidence in the authenticity of silver items in the market.

Currently, hallmarking is compulsory only for gold jewelry and artifacts. The hallmarking system uses a unique six-digit alphanumeric code, known as HUID, to certify the purity and authenticity of gold. Extending this system to silver could mark a significant step forward in ensuring consumer trust and enhancing India’s quality standards for precious metals.

What is Hallmarking?

Hallmarking certifies the purity and quality of precious metals like gold and silver, ensuring they meet regulatory standards. A hallmark typically includes:

• BIS Standard Mark: Certification by the Bureau of Indian Standards.
• Purity/Fineness Grade: Indicates the metal's purity, such as 22K or 916 for 22-karat gold.
• Assaying and Hallmarking Centre’s Mark: Identifies the center that tested the metal's purity.
• Jeweller’s Identification Mark/Code: Points to the manufacturer or jeweler.

What is the Role of the BIS - The Bureau of Indian Standards 

The BIS, operating under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, is India’s national standards body. It sets benchmarks for product safety, quality, and reliability, offering certifications to ensure compliance.

If implemented, mandatory silver hallmarking could strengthen consumer protection and align India’s standards with international practices. The initiative is expected to boost trust among buyers while promoting transparency and accountability in the silver industry.