What does gold purity mean?
Purity tells you how much real gold is in the item. It is shown as karat (K) and as a 3-digit number: the parts of pure gold out of 1,000.
The rest is other metal, added to make the gold stronger. Higher karat means purer but softer gold.
| Karat | Purity number | Gold content |
|---|---|---|
| 24K | 995 / 999 | 99.5% – 99.9% |
| 23K | 958 | 95.8% |
| 22K | 916 | 91.6% |
| 20K | 833 | 83.3% |
| 18K | 750 | 75% |
| 14K | 585 | 58.5% |
What is a hallmark?
A hallmark is a small official stamp that proves the gold's purity. Here is what each of its marks means[R2].
- BIS logo. The triangle logo of India's official standards body.
- Purity. Karat and purity number together, for example 22K916.
- HUID code. Letters and numbers mixed, different for every piece.
For example, a 22 karat yellow gold ring should be stamped 22K916.
Can a gold coin still be certified?
Yes. Some coin makers choose BIS certification even though the law does not require it. A certified coin's pack shows its purity, maker, weight and a serial number[R4].
Which gold coin weights can I buy?
Coins are sold by weight. Common sizes run from 0.5 g up to 100 g; exact sizes depend on the brand.
| Weight | Best for |
|---|---|
| 0.5 g, 1 g, 2 g | Small budget, puja, gifting |
| 5 g, 8 g, 10 g | Regular saving, wedding gifts |
| 20 g, 50 g, 100 g | Larger, long-term savings |
Example: 24 karat 999 purity 1 gram gold coin.
Gold coin vs gold jewellery
| Point | Gold coin | Gold jewellery |
|---|---|---|
| Usual purity | 24K | 22K or 18K |
| Hallmark by law | Not required | Required |
| Making charges | Low | Higher, depends on design |
| Wearable | No | Yes |
Buying for saving or puja? A 24 karat coin is the simplest choice. Want something to wear? Choose 22 karat hallmarked jewellery.
How to choose: checklist at the counter
- Ask for a magnifying glass. Hallmarks are tiny; every BIS-registered shop must keep one.
- Verify the HUID. Enter it in the free BIS CARE app (Verify HUID) to see the item and seller details[R3].
- For coins, keep the pack sealed. Check that it shows the certification details listed above.
- Read the bill. It must show the item, net gold weight, purity and hallmarking charge[R5]. Ask for making charges to be written too.
- Keep the bill and pack. You need them to resell or to make a claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 999 and 995 gold?
Can I get my gold tested for purity?
My old jewellery has no HUID. Is it still valid?
Does each earring in a pair need its own hallmark?
Does very light jewellery need a hallmark?
References
JioMart is a Reliance Retail platform. Product links are examples, not recommendations, and availability varies by pincode. Gold prices change daily, so check the product page.