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Understanding the Consequences of Failing Sample Tests in Hallmarking: Cancellation of Registration Process

Maintaining the highest standards of purity and fineness is essential in the jewellery industry. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has set stringent guidelines to ensure that hallmarked jewellery meets these standards. When a sample drawn for testing fails to meet the required purity, it can lead to serious consequences, including the cancellation of the jeweller's registration. This article explores the procedures and implications of such failures.

Conditions Leading to Cancellation

A jeweller's registration can be at risk if a sample drawn for testing shows a shortage in purity or fineness. Specifically, if the sample fails with a significant deviation in the declared fineness, the BIS will initiate the process for cancellation of the registration. The criteria include:

• Purity/Fineness Shortage: If a sample shows a shortage in fineness above 2 ppt (parts per thousand) up to and including 5 ppt.
• Presence of Prohibited Elements: For silver jewellery, a shortage in fineness up to 5 ppt or the presence of prohibited elements can also trigger this process.

Process for Improved Sample Testing

Before cancelling the registration, the BIS allows jewellers an opportunity to offer an improved sample. The steps include:

• Notification: The jeweller is notified about the failure and given a chance to submit an improved sample.
• Re-Testing: The improved sample is drawn and sent for independent testing.
• Outcome: If the improved sample passes, the registration remains valid. If it fails again, the process for cancellation is initiated.

Initiating the Cancellation Process

If the improved sample also fails, the BIS will proceed with the cancellation of the jeweller's registration. The steps involve:

• Formal Notice: Issuing a formal notice to the jeweller about the initiation of cancellation.
• Corrective Actions: Reviewing any corrective actions taken by the jeweller.
• Final Decision: Making a final decision based on the test results and the jeweller's compliance with the guidelines.

Common Questions and Answers

What happens if a sample fails the purity test? If a sample fails the purity test, the jeweller is notified and given a chance to offer an improved sample. If the improved sample also fails, the registration cancellation process is initiated.

How can jewellers offer improved samples? Jewellers can submit an improved sample for re-testing as per BIS guidelines. This involves notifying the BIS and providing a new sample from a different batch or lot.

What are the consequences of repeated failures? Repeated failures to meet the purity standards can lead to the cancellation of the jeweller's registration, impacting their ability to sell hallmarked jewellery legally.