Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID) Number

Context:

From April 1, the sale of gold jewellery will not be allowed without a Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID) number.

Image Source: The Indian Express

About HUID Number:

HUID is a unique six-digit alphanumeric code given to every piece of jewellery and artefact at the time of hallmarking.
It is given to every piece of jewellery at the time of hallmarking, and is a unique identifier for each gold item.
The jewellery is stamped with the unique number manually at the Assaying & Hallmarking centre.

Why is hallmarking of gold jewellery important?

“Hallmark is a mark on gold jewelry which is affixed by an entity recognised by Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to assure its fineness and purity.
Since the quality of the jewellery is guaranteed, that piece will fetch a higher price when re-sold.
Also, Banks are likely to give loans on better terms if the mortgaged jewellery is hallmarked,
The three categories of hallmarked jewelry are:
- “22K916 means that it is a 22 carat gold and the piece of jewellery has 91.6 percent gold.
- 18K750 means that it is an 18 carat gold and the piece of jewellery has 75 percent gold.
- 14K585 means that it is 14 carat gold and the piece of jewellery has 58.5 percent gold.

Benefits:

It is aimed at ensuring the purity of Hallmarked jewellery and checking any malpractice.
HUID is a secure system and poses no risk to data privacy or security. HUID-based Hallmarking is a win-win for everyone.
It brings about transparency, ensures consumers’ rights and obviates the chances of Inspector Raj.