Introduction:
Gold has been a symbol of wealth, prosperity, and tradition for centuries. Whether it's a wedding, festival, or investment, buying gold jewellery is always a significant decision. However, with the increasing availability of gold in various forms, it is crucial to ensure that the gold you buy is pure and authentic. Fake or impure gold can lead to financial loss and disappointment. So, how do you identify pure gold while buying jewellery? Here’s a detailed guide to help you make an informed purchase.

1. Check the Hallmark Certification
The BIS Hallmark is the most reliable way to check gold purity in India. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certifies gold based on its purity level. A hallmark indicates:
BIS Logo – Confirms the gold is certified.
Purity in Karats & Fineness – Example: 22K916 (22 Karat gold with 91.6% purity).
Assaying Centre’s Mark – The authorized lab where the gold was tested.
Jeweller’s Identification Mark – The manufacturer or seller's registered mark.
Year of Hallmarking – A letter code represents the year of certification.
When buying gold jewellery, always look for the BIS Hallmark to ensure authenticity.
2. Understand Karats & Purity Levels
Gold purity is measured in karats (K), and different karat values indicate different levels of gold content:
24K Gold (99.9% Pure) – Soft, not ideal for jewellery.
22K Gold (91.6% Pure) – Perfect for traditional jewellery, slightly mixed with other metals.
18K Gold (75% Pure) – Durable, often used in modern and diamond-studded jewellery.
14K Gold (58.3% Pure) – Ideal for lightweight and contemporary jewellery.
3. Perform a Magnet Test Pure gold is not magnetic. If a piece of jewellery gets attracted to a magnet, it contains other metals like iron or nickel. However, this test alone is not enough, as some non-magnetic metals are also mixed with gold.