The government of India has announced that the hallmarking of gold jewellery is mandatory, but it is still to be implemented by many small retailers. Even though the government is trying its best to create awareness and acceptance among the consumers, but there is often reportage of fake hallmarking of jewellery. As a result of this, there is
regular scrutiny and surprise inspection is done by the Bureau.
At present, there are 750 hallmarking centres in the country and as per reports, 100 more are there in the pipeline. The testing of the jewellery is approved and done in these approved hallmarking and assaying centres. In case of any discrepancy found in the purity, a complaint can be raised and the centre can even be shut.
What is the Process to Complain?
Remember when you are buying hallmarked jewellery, there are four essential components engraved in it- from the BIS logo, the purity of gold, the logo of the assaying centre to the logo of the jeweller. These signs will help the BIS Bureau to track down the culprit when you raise a complaint.
Sometimes, jewellers discourage consumers to not take bills citing reasons that it will be expensive for them. But a consumer should always ask for a bill against any purchase so that tomorrow if you come to know that the gold which you purchased is not 22 Karat, but 18 Karat, you will have proof.
Sometimes, it may happen that you have purchased hallmarked jewellery, but you are not convinced of the authenticity. In this case, you can approach any of the 750 hallmarking centres in the country or in BIS; two referral laboratories, where hallmarking tests are done. The cost for testing in the referral laboratories is only Rs 35 and if you go to the BIS
centres will be free of cost.
If there is any discrepancy found in the purity, strict action is immediately taken by BIS. The Bureau will immediately derecognise the centre involved in such malpractices. (Interlinking of Hallmarking articles wherever required)
