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24K Gold Purity Guide: 999 vs. 995 & The Truth About 'HPM' Markings
Are you buying 24-Karat gold? Don't get scammed by non-standard markings.
24-Karat gold is the highest purity standard, but not all markings are equal. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) mandates strict rules to protect your investment. This guide simplifies the difference between 999 (Investment Grade) and 995 (Hallmarking Standard) and explains why you must avoid the unauthorized "HPM" mark.
Why Follow BIS Standards? Key Benefits
- ⏱️Instant Verification: Use the BIS CARE App to verify the 6-digit HUID code instantly. You verify the purity and the jeweler in seconds.
- ?️Guaranteed Purity: Buying BIS-hallmarked 24K (995) ensures you are getting exactly 99.5% pure gold, tested by independent labs.
- ⏳Durability & Integrity: 995 fineness is slightly harder than 999, allowing the gold to hold the laser-etched HUID code without bending or fading.
- ?️Risk Protection: By avoiding "HPM" and other fake marks, you protect yourself from buying unauthorized, untraceable, or impure gold.
- ?Resale Value: Only correctly hallmarked gold with a valid HUID guarantees full market value and liquidity when you decide to sell.
Technical Specifications: 24K Standards
| Fineness Standard | Details & Typical Use |
|---|---|
| 999.9 (Four Nines) | 99.99% Purity. Extremely soft. Used for premium investment bullion/bars. |
| 999 (Standard 24K) | 99.9% Purity. Very soft. Common for investment coins and bullion. |
| 995 (BIS Standard) | 99.5% Purity. The official BIS standard for hallmarked items. Strong enough for laser stamping. |
| Chemical Group | Precious Metal (Au - Aurum) |
| HPM Mark | NON-COMPLIANT. Not recognized by BIS. Often confused with agricultural brands. |
| Toxicity Label | Non-Toxic (Biologically Inert) |
How It Works: The HUID Verification System
The old system of hallmarking is gone. Today, traceability is key. Here is how the modern HUID (Hallmark Unique Identification) system works to protect your money:
- Traceability: Every piece of jewelry gets a unique 6-digit alphanumeric code (the HUID). Think of it as a digital fingerprint for your gold.
- Transparency: This code links the item to the specific Assaying & Hallmarking Centre (AHC) that tested it and the jeweler who sold it.
- Validation: You can enter this code into the BIS CARE app to instantly confirm if the gold is genuine or fake.
Mandatory Hallmark Components (Post-2023)
| Component Symbol | Purpose & Validity |
|---|---|
| BIS Logo | The triangular symbol confirming the item is certified by the Bureau of Indian Standards. |
| Purity Grade (e.g., 24K995) | Guarantees the gold content. Must show "995" or "999". |
| HUID Code | Mandatory. A 6-digit alphanumeric code (e.g., H12345) for tracking and anti-counterfeiting. |
Risk Assessment: The 'HPM' Mark
The Golden Rule: Never accept "HPM" as a proof of purity. "HPM" is NOT a BIS-recognized standard.
Why You Should Reject 'HPM' Marked Gold
| Acronym Context | Industry Association | Official Status | Risk Level | Action Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HPM (Agriculture) | Fertilizers / Chemicals | Brand Name (e.g., HPM Gold) | High Confusion | Ignore for gold. |
| HPM (Jewelry Mark) | Local / Obsolete | Unauthorized | High Risk | Treat as unhallmarked. |
| HUID (BIS) | Precious Metals | Mandatory Legal Standard | Zero Risk | Verify in App. |
*Action Required: If you own HPM gold, take it to an accredited Assaying Centre for testing immediately.
How to Buy Safely: Best Practices
- Check for HUID: Since April 2023, the 6-digit alphanumeric code is mandatory. Do not buy without it.
- Look for 24K995: Ensure the purity mark says "995" or "999". This confirms the percentage of gold.
- Get the Bill: Ensure your invoice contains the description of the jewelry, the gross weight, the net weight, and the HUID code.
- Safety: If a jeweler offers "HPM" gold at a discount or refuses to show the HUID, walk away. This is a sign of potential fraud.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does the "HPM" mark mean on gold?
"HPM" is not a recognized BIS standard. It may refer to an old local jeweler's mark or simply be a confusing brand name from the agricultural sector. Gold with this mark is considered unverified.
2. Is 995 gold less pure than 999 gold?
Technically, yes, but intentionally so. 995 gold is 99.5% pure, whereas 999 is 99.9% pure. The 995 standard is used for hallmarking because it is slightly more durable, ensuring the hallmark stamp stays legible.
3. How can I check if my gold is real?
Download the "BIS CARE" app on your phone. Enter the 6-digit HUID code etched on your gold item into the "Verify HUID" section. It will show you the jeweler's name and purity.
4. Can I sell gold that has the "HPM" mark?
Yes, but it will likely be treated as "unhallmarked" gold. The buyer will need to melt it or test it to verify purity, which means you might get a lower price or pay testing fees.
5. Is the HUID code mandatory for 24K gold coins?
Yes. All gold artifacts and jewelry sold under the BIS hallmarking scheme must carry the HUID code for traceability and authenticity.
Safety & Disclaimer
Always read and follow the instructions on the official product label and BIS guidelines. The information provided here is for guidance only. Investors are advised to independently verify gold purity through BIS-recognized Assaying and Hallmarking Centres (AHC).
