Why Purity Verification Matters Even at Trusted Brands
Malabar Gold and Diamonds is a reputable chain with strong quality controls, but verifying purity is good practice regardless of the brand. Every BIS-hallmarked piece now has a unique HUID code that lets you independently confirm its purity — a right you should always exercise before making a significant gold purchase.
Step 1: Look for the BIS Hallmark on the Piece
All gold jewellery sold by Malabar Gold complies with mandatory BIS hallmarking. The hallmark stamp on your jewellery will include:
- The BIS logo (an equilateral triangle).
- A purity number: 999 (24K), 958 (23K), 916 (22K), 875 (21K), 750 (18K), or 585 (14K).
- A 6-digit HUID code — a unique alphanumeric identifier for that specific piece.
The hallmark is typically stamped on the clasp, inside a ring band, or on a tab attached to the piece. Use a magnifying glass if needed — the marks are small.
Step 2: Verify the HUID on the BIS Care App
- Download the BIS Care app (Android and iOS — search “BIS Care” on the Play Store or App Store).
- Open the app and select Verify Hallmark.
- Enter the 6-digit HUID code or scan it if the app supports QR scanning at your device.
- The app will display: the metal (gold/silver), the purity, the hallmarking centre, and the date of certification.
- If the HUID does not appear in the system or the purity shown differs from what is stamped on the piece, raise a concern with the store immediately.
Step 3: Check the Invoice
A legitimate Malabar Gold purchase will include a detailed GST invoice showing:
- Jewellery description (type, karatage, weight)
- HUID number
- Gold rate per gram applied
- Making charges (flat or percentage)
- GST breakdown (3% on gold, 5% on making charges)
Always match the HUID on your invoice with the HUID physically stamped on the jewellery before leaving the store.
What the Hallmark Numbers Mean on Malabar Jewellery
- 916 = 22 Karat = 91.6% pure gold (most common for traditional jewellery)
- 750 = 18 Karat = 75% pure gold (used for diamond jewellery)
- 999 = 24 Karat = 99.9% pure gold (rare; used for gold coins and bars)
Full hallmark guide: 916, 750, 585 gold hallmarks explained.
Also read: What BIS hallmark on gold means in India.
What If the Hallmark Doesn’t Verify Correctly?
- Do not complete the purchase until the issue is resolved.
- Ask the store manager to re-verify the piece and provide documentation.
- If unsatisfied, you can file a complaint with BIS at biscare@bis.gov.in or through the BIS Care app itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Malabar Gold guarantee 100% purity on all pieces?
Malabar Gold claims BIS-certified purity on all jewellery. The BIS hallmark is the formal certification — once you verify the HUID and it matches, the purity has been certified by an accredited testing centre, not just by Malabar Gold itself.
Can I get Malabar Gold re-tested independently?
Yes. Any BIS-accredited Assaying and Hallmarking Centre (AHC) in India can test your jewellery for purity. Search for your nearest AHC on the BIS website. The test fee is typically ₹100–₹200 per piece.
Is 18K Malabar gold purer than 22K Malabar gold?
No. 22K (916) is purer — it contains 91.6% gold. 18K (750) contains 75% gold. The remaining percentage in both cases is alloy metals. 18K is used for diamond jewellery because it is harder and holds stones better.