Buying gold jewellery on Dhanteras is a tradition many people look forward to. But before you make that purchase, there are a few things your jeweller may not explain unless you ask. One small detail could make a big difference to what you take home. Are you checking everything you should before paying?
With Dhanteras falling on November 6, 2026, jewellery stores are likely to see buyers looking for gold necklaces, rings, coins and traditional designs. Here are five important things to check before purchasing gold.
1. Check Whether Your Gold Jewellery Needs Hallmarking
Under BIS rules, mandatory hallmarking applies to gold jewellery and artefacts in districts covered by the hallmarking order. However, some categories are exempt.
These include:
- Gold articles weighing less than 2 grams.
- Special jewellery designs such as Kundan, Polki and Jadau.
- Gold bullion, including bars and coins.
- Gold watches and fountain pens.
- Certain articles meant for export, exhibitions and industrial or medical purposes.
Jewellers with annual turnover of up to ₹40 lakh are also exempt from mandatory hallmarking. However, they can sell hallmarked jewellery if registered with BIS. Bureau of Indian Standards+1
2. Don’t Confuse Gold Coins With Gold Jewellery
Planning to purchase gold coins instead of jewellery? There is an important difference.
The mandatory hallmarking order for gold jewellery and artefacts does not cover gold bullion and coins. However, gold coins and bullion with 999 or 995 fineness can be hallmarked through BIS-approved refineries and mints.
So, if you are buying a gold coin, ask the seller about its purity, fineness and certification details. Bureau of Indian Standards
3. Look for These Three Marks on Jewellery
If you are purchasing hallmarked gold jewellery, check for all three components:
- BIS logo
- Purity marking, such as 22K916 or 18K750
- Six-digit alphanumeric HUID number
You can verify the HUID using the ‘Verify HUID’ feature in the BIS Care App. This helps buyers check the details of the hallmarked article. Bureau of Indian Standards
4. Check Hallmarking Charges on Your Bill
BIS revised gold hallmarking charges from ₹45 to ₹75 per article, with a minimum charge of ₹200 per consignment, effective September 14, 2026.
However, this is the fee payable by jewellers to recognised Assaying and Hallmarking Centres. It does not automatically mean every customer must pay an additional ₹75 separately.
If hallmarking charges appear on your bill, ask the jeweller for a clear explanation. Gazette Tracker+1
5. Don’t Leave the Jewellery Store Without a Proper Bill
Always collect a proper invoice showing the jewellery description, net weight, purity and applicable charges. If the jewellery is hallmarked, BIS requires these details to be mentioned separately in the invoice.
For jewellery with detachable parts or matching pairs, check that each article and detachable part carries its own hallmark and unique HUID. Bureau of Indian Standards
Before You Buy Gold This Dhanteras
Gold prices, making charges and purity are not the only things to check while shopping for jewellery. Hallmarking rules also matter. Before making your purchase, verify the HUID, check the invoice and ask the jeweller about any additional charges. A few checks at the jewellery counter can help you make a more informed buying decision.
