Reading a Hallmark Before You Buy

A BIS hallmark on gold jewellery records its purity — 22K, 18K, and so on — verified by an assaying centre rather than by the shop selling it.

Two things are worth doing on any purchase. Look for the mark on the piece itself, and keep the bill, which should state the weight, the purity and the making charges separately. Making charges are where two quotes for "the same" piece most often differ.

Ask. Any jeweller worth buying from will explain their figure without being pushed.