Hallmarking is essential for verifying the purity and authenticity of precious metal jewellery. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) ensures that all hallmarked jewellery meets strict standards. However, there are instances when samples may fail the tests conducted by BIS, necessitating corrective actions by jewellers.
Sample failures can occur due to a shortage in fineness or the presence of prohibited elements. For gold jewellery, a shortage of more than 2 parts per thousand (ppt) but up to 5 ppt of the marked fineness, or any prohibited elements, constitutes a failure. For silver jewellery, similar standards apply, with the acceptable fineness being up to 5 ppt of the marked fineness.
Upon receiving an intimation of sample failure, jewellers must submit an explanation and corrective actions to BIS within 90 days. This step is crucial for addressing the deficiencies identified in the failed sample and preventing further non-compliance.
Once the corrective actions are submitted, BIS will draw a random sample from an improved hallmarked lot declared by the registered jeweller. This sample undergoes independent testing to ensure it meets the relevant standards. If the sample passes, normal operation of the certificate continues. If it fails again, a failure report is issued, and the jeweller must provide another explanation and take further corrective actions within 90 days.
Continued compliance with BIS standards is essential. If the re-drawn sample passes the test, the jeweller's operations may continue as usual. However, if the sample fails due to shortage in fineness or the presence of prohibited elements, the process for cancelling the registration is initiated, as per section 7 of the BIS (Hallmarking) Regulations, 2018.
What happens if a sample fails the initial test? The jeweller must submit an explanation and corrective actions within 90 days. A new sample from an improved hallmarked lot is then tested independently.
How can jewellers ensure their samples pass the re-test? By thoroughly addressing the issues identified in the initial test and ensuring that the improved samples meet BIS standards.
What are the consequences of repeated sample failures? Repeated failures can lead to the initiation of the process for cancellation of the jeweller's registration, impacting their ability to sell hallmarked jewellery.
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