In a landmark move, the Indian government has approved BIS hallmarking for 9-karat gold jewellery, aiming to provide affordable, certified gold options amid skyrocketing prices and sluggish demand.
What Is 9-Karat Gold?
9-karat gold contains 37.5% pure gold, marked as “375”. It’s more affordable, durable, and lightweight, making it ideal for daily wear, trendy designs, and younger or budget-conscious buyers.
What the 9-Karat Gold Hallmarking Mandate Means
From July 2025, 9K gold jewellery will be mandatorily hallmarked by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), just like 14K, 18K, 22K, and 24K gold. The hallmark will include:
- BIS logo
- “375” fineness stamp
- 6-digit HUID code (Hallmark Unique Identification)
This assures buyers of authenticity and purity, even at lower gold content levels.
Why the Move?
1. Skyrocketing Gold Prices
Gold recently touched ₹99,000–₹100,500 per 10g, pricing out middle-income buyers. In contrast, 9K gold is around ₹37,000 (₹38,100 incl. GST), making certified gold more accessible.
2. Slump in Sales
India’s gold jewellery market witnessed a 60% drop in volume sales in June 2025, the worst since COVID. Industry insiders expect 9K hallmarking to revive demand, especially in festive, rural, and youth markets.
What Industry Leaders Are Saying
- Surat Jewellery Manufacturers Association (SJMA), which pushed for this change, believes 9K gold is perfect for lab-grown diamond settings and lightweight jewellery.
- Senco Gold and IBJA see it as a game-changer for both domestic and export markets, especially as hallmarking builds international credibility.
9-Karat Gold Hallmarking Rollout Timeline
- BIS has already amended the Gold Hallmarking Order (Amendment No. 2 of 2024).
- Infrastructure expansion in hallmarking centres is underway.
- Full-scale implementation to be expected soon.
Hallmarking 9-karat gold is a consumer-first and market-reviving initiative. It ensures transparency, affordability, and trust, key to sustaining India’s gold jewellery ecosystem in an era of high prices.
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