You think you’re buying sterling silver in Jaipur.
You pay the price.
But you might walk away with a plated trinket or low-grade alloy.
Here’s how to check silver purity before you buy.
Look for the 925 Stamp
Sterling silver = 92.5% silver.
It’s usually marked as:
- 925
- S925
- Sterling
- Sterling Silver
If you don’t see a stamp, ask why.
Many fake items skip this detail.
Check for BIS Hallmark
For Indian-made silver, look for the BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) mark.
It includes:
- The BIS logo
- Purity grade (like 925)
- Year of marking
- Assaying centre’s code
- Jeweller’s ID
Still missing? Walk away.
Simple Visual Clues
Real silver is:
- Slightly dull in shine, not mirror-like
- Cool to the touch
- Not magnetic
- Prone to mild tarnish over time
Plated or fake items:
- Shine too bright
- Peel or flake at edges
- Feel light or hollow
Bring a small magnet. If it sticks, it’s not silver.
Try the Rub Test
Rub the item with a white cloth.
If black marks appear, it’s a good sign.
Real silver tarnishes and leaves residue.
But some fakes can fool this test. Use it only as a quick check.
Ask Directly: Is It Solid or Plated?
Say this clearly:
“Is it solid sterling silver or just silver plated?”
Watch their reaction.
Hesitation means you should double-check or leave.
Bonus Tip: Buy from Trusted Stores
In Jaipur, many tourist shops sell “silver” that’s actually white metal.
Stick to known jewellers, government emporiums, or shops with proper receipts and hallmarking.
Ask Yourself Before Paying:
- Do I see the 925 or BIS mark?
- Is the seller open about purity?
- Can I return the item if it turns out fake?
If the answer to any of these is no, don’t buy.
