Don't Get Cheated When Buying Gold, There's an App for That:

Buying gold is a big deal in India, especially during festivals like Dhanteras and Diwali. It's not just a beautiful accessory; it's an investment and often carries deep emotional value. But with so much money at stake, how can you be absolutely sure that what you're buying is the real deal?

We all look for the hallmark stamp on jewellery, but let's be honest, most of us don't really know what those tiny symbols mean. What if the hallmark itself is fake? It’s a worry that can take the joy out of a special purchase.

Thankfully, you don't need to be a gold expert or carry around a special kit anymore. All you need is your smartphone and a free app from the Government of India that can instantly give you peace of mind.

Introducing the BIS Care App

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), the government body that sets the quality standards for products in India, has a super useful mobile app called "BIS Care." This app is designed to empower you, the consumer, to check the authenticity of all kinds of certified products, including your precious gold jewellery.

Since June 2021, hallmarking on gold jewellery is mandatory in most parts of the country, and every hallmarked item comes with a unique 6-digit alphanumeric code known as the HUID (Hallmark Unique Identification) number. This code is the key.

How to Use the App in 3 Simple Steps:

It's incredibly easy to use and can be done right there at the jeweller's counter before you make a payment.

Download the App: First things first, go to the Google Play Store or Apple App Store and download the "BIS Care" app. It's a free official government application.
Find the 'Verify HUID' Feature: Once you open the app, you'll see several options. Look for the one that says "Verify HUID." It’s usually very prominent on the home screen.
Enter the Code and See the Magic: Ask the jeweller to show you the HUID code engraved on the piece of jewellery you're about to buy. It's usually very small, so you might need to use your phone's camera to zoom in. Carefully type that 6-digit code into the app and hit 'Go' or 'Search.'

What Happens Next?

In seconds, the app will connect to the official BIS database and pull up all the details associated with that specific piece of jewellery. It will show you things like:

The name and address of the jeweller who got the item hallmarked.
The Assaying and Hallmarking Centre where it was tested.
The purity of the gold (e.g., 22K916).
The type of jewellery (e.g., ring, bangle, necklace).

If the details on the app match the item in your hand and the jeweller selling it, you can be confident that you're buying authentic, properly hallmarked gold. If the HUID is invalid or the details don't match, it's a major red flag.

So next time you're out shopping for gold, take a moment to use this simple tool. It’s a small step that gives you complete control and ensures your hard-earned money is being spent on the real thing.