Buying gold and silver items during Dhanteras and Diwali is considered auspicious in many Indian households. Along with jewellery, coins and utensils, Lakshmi-Ganesha idols are also popular purchases for festive worship.
These idols are available in different options, including 925 sterling silver and solid 22-karat gold. Silver idols are generally a more affordable choice, while gold idols are preferred by buyers with a higher budget.
However, before purchasing a precious-metal idol, buyers should understand whether BIS hallmarking rules apply to it. Knowing how to identify a genuine hallmark and verify its details can help avoid confusion while shopping.
Is BIS Hallmarking Mandatory for Gold and Silver Idols?
According to the BIS hallmarking scheme brief released on October 1, mandatory hallmarking of gold jewellery and artefacts was introduced on June 23, 2021, in 256 districts. Following subsequent amendments, the coverage has expanded to 392 districts.
The mandatory gold hallmarking framework recognises seven purity grades under IS 1417. These include 9K (375), 14K (585), 18K (750), 20K (833), 22K (916), 23K (958) and 24KS (995). Certain articles are exempt under specified conditions, including gold items weighing less than two grams and particular Kundan, Polki and Jadau articles.
Silver hallmarking, on the other hand, remains voluntary. Under the revised IS 2112:2025 standard, silver articles hallmarked through the BIS scheme must carry a six-character Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID) code from September 1, 2025.
The eight permitted silver purity grades are 800, 835, 900, 925, 958, 970, 990 and 999.
How to Identify a Genuine Hallmark on an Idol
Before purchasing a hallmarked gold or silver idol, buyers should check three important details.
- BIS Standard Mark: Look for the official BIS logo on gold articles. For silver, the standard mark is accompanied by the word ‘SILVER’.
- Purity or fineness mark: This indicates the metal’s purity. For example, 22K916 represents 22-karat gold, while 925 indicates silver with 92.5% purity.
- HUID: A unique six-character alphanumeric identification code assigned to each hallmarked article.
Checking these markings can help buyers understand the metal quality and confirm whether the article carries the required hallmark details.
How to Verify HUID Using the BIS Care App
Consumers can check the HUID of a hallmarked article through the free BIS Care mobile application.
First, download the BIS Care app and select the ‘Verify HUID’ option on its home screen. Enter the six-character alphanumeric code mentioned on the article and submit it.
The application displays the registered purity, article information, jeweller’s details and information about the assaying and hallmarking centre. Buyers can use these details to verify the hallmark information before completing their purchase.
Important Things to Check Before Buying Lakshmi-Ganesha Idols
Apart from hallmarking, buyers should carefully examine a few other details before paying for a gold or silver idol.
Confirm the metal and purity: Ask the jeweller whether the idol is made from solid gold, solid silver or gold-plated silver. Prices should reflect the actual metal used, as a gold-plated silver idol should not be valued like a solid gold article.
Check the weight: Confirm the net weight of the precious metal and whether the idol is solid or hollow.
Examine the workmanship: Inspect the faces of Lakshmi and Ganesha, including the eyes, trunk, crown and other detailed features.
Look at the finishing: Make sure the idols have a proper finish and are free from chips, cracks, breakage or other damage, particularly if they are intended for Diwali puja.
Understand the making charges: Request a clear price breakdown covering the metal value, making charges and applicable taxes.
Ask about the buyback policy: Before purchasing, understand the jeweller’s exchange and buyback conditions, including any deductions that may apply.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes only. Hallmarking requirements may depend on the applicable BIS rules and exemptions. Buyers should check the markings and verify HUID details through the official BIS Care app before purchasing precious-metal articles.