Summary
Buying silver in Jaipur can be tricky. Many items sold as sterling silver are plated or low-quality alloys. This 2-minute guide shows you how to verify silver purity using stamps, BIS hallmarking, visual clues, simple tests, and trusted store practices. Protect your money and ensure you get genuine silver.
You think you’re buying sterling silver in Jaipur. You pay the price. But sometimes, you might walk away with plated trinkets or low-grade alloys.
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 the seller 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:
- BIS logo
- Purity grade (like 925)
- Year of marking
- Assaying centre’s code
- Jeweller’s ID
Still missing? Walk away. Learn more about BIS hallmarking for jewelry.
Simple Visual Clues
Real silver is:
- Slightly dull, not mirror-like
- Cool to the touch
- Non-magnetic
- Prone to mild tarnish over time
Fake or plated 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.
Black marks indicate real silver tarnish.
Some fakes can fool this, so use only as a quick check.
Ask Directly: Solid or Plated?
Ask clearly: “Is it solid sterling silver or just silver plated?”
Hesitation may mean double-checking or leaving the item.
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 transparent about purity?
- Can I return the item if it’s fake?
If the answer to any is no, don’t buy.
See Also: On the Jaipur jewelry category on Saju Elizamma.
Explore More Here: BIS hallmarking
FAQ Section
Q1: How do I know if silver is real without a stamp?
Look for visual clues: dull shine, cool to touch, non-magnetic, and mild tarnish.
Q2: What is the BIS hallmark on silver?
It’s an Indian standard mark showing purity, year, assaying centre code, and jeweller ID.
Q3: Can the rub test alone confirm silver?
No. Some fakes leave black marks too. Use it along with stamps and BIS hallmarking.
Q4: Where should I buy real silver in Jaipur?
Stick to reputable jewellers, government emporiums, and stores with receipts and hallmarking.
