What is Hallmark Registration?
Hallmark Registration is the process by which a jeweler gets certified by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to sell hallmarked gold and silver jewellery. The hallmark acts as a guarantee of purity and fineness of the precious metal.
Since 2021, hallmarking has become mandatory in many districts across India, and all gold jewellery must now carry a 6-digit alphanumeric Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID) code.
Components of a BIS Hallmark
A valid BIS Hallmark on gold jewellery consists of three marks:
- BIS Logo: Indicates that the purity is verified by a BIS-licensed laboratory.
- Purity Grade: Shows the fineness of gold (e.g., 22K916, 18K750, 14K585).
- HUID Code: A unique 6-digit alphanumeric code that traces the jewellery back to the jeweler and the assaying center.
Benefits of Hallmark Registration
- Consumer Trust: Customers prefer buying hallmarked jewellery as it guarantees purity.
- Legal Compliance: Avoids penalties and legal issues in districts where hallmarking is mandatory.
- Higher Resale Value: Hallmarked jewellery commands better resale value due to assured purity.
- Market Reputation: Enhances the brand image of the jeweler as a seller of quality products.
Eligibility Criteria
Any jeweler involved in the manufacturing, wholesale, distribution, or retail of gold or silver jewellery can apply. The basic requirements are:
- Registered Business: Must have a valid business registration (e.g., GST, Shop Act).
- Physical Premises: Must have a registered office or shop address in India.
- Turnover: While mandatory for those with turnover above ₹40 Lakhs, it is recommended for all to build trust.
Documents Required for Hallmark Registration
- Proof of Establishment: Partnership Deed, Certificate of Incorporation, or Shop Act License.
- Address Proof: Rent Agreement, Property Tax Receipt, or Sale Deed of the business premises.
- Identity Proof: PAN Card and Aadhaar Card of the proprietor/partners/directors.
- Turnover Proof: GST Returns or a CA Certificate certifying the turnover.
- Map: Location map of the business premises.
Registration Process
- Online Registration: Create an account on the BIS Manak Online portal.
- Form Submission: Fill in the application form with business details.
- Document Upload: Upload the required documents in the specified format.
- Fee Payment: Pay the registration fee online based on your turnover.
- Scrutiny: BIS officials verify the application and documents.
- Grant of License: Once approved, the license is granted digitally and can be downloaded.
Fees and Validity
Registration Fee: The fee depends on the annual turnover:
- Up to ₹5 Crore: ₹7,500
- ₹5 Crore to ₹25 Crore: ₹15,000
- ₹25 Crore to ₹100 Crore: ₹40,000
- Above ₹100 Crore: ₹80,000
Validity: The Certificate of Registration is valid for a lifetime, but an annual renewal fee (same as the registration fee) must be paid to keep it active.
