Learn how to read hallmarks and stamps on gold jewelry in the UAE. Understand purity marks, assay office stamps, and country codes to confirm authenticity before you buy.
When you buy gold in the UAE, hallmarks and stamps are your best tool for confirming authenticity.
But do you know how to read them?
Here’s a quick guide.
1. Purity Marks
Every gold item in the UAE must carry a karat stamp.
- 24K – Pure gold
- 22K – Most common for jewelry in Dubai
- 21K – Popular for traditional designs
- 18K – Preferred for diamond and gemstone jewelry
Check if the karat mark matches what you paid for. If a bangle is sold as 22K, you should see “22K” or “916” engraved on it.
2. Assay Office Stamps
UAE law requires jewelry to be tested and stamped by government-approved assay offices.
- Look for official marks issued by Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah assay centers.
- These confirm that the gold has passed purity checks.
Without this stamp, the jewelry isn’t legally certified.
3. Maker’s Mark
Every jeweler in the UAE must stamp their unique identification mark.
- This tells you which store or workshop made the piece.
- If you ever sell or repair the item, this stamp helps trace its origin.
4. Country of Origin Codes
Imported jewelry often carries a country code.
- Example: “750 ITALY” means 18K Italian gold.
- Many Indian, Turkish, and Italian pieces in Dubai carry these codes.
5. Practical Tips for You
- Always check the inside of rings and bangles. That’s where stamps are usually placed.
- Use a magnifying glass if the engraving is too small.
- Compare the hallmark with the invoice. Both must match.
- Ask the jeweler to show you the HUID verification on the BIS Care App if you’re buying Indian-made jewelry sold in the UAE.
When you understand hallmarks and stamps, you shop with confidence.
The next time you walk into Dubai Gold Souk or a mall jewelry store, will you be able to decode the tiny marks on your gold piece?
A beginner’s guide to understanding hallmarks and stamps on gold jewelry in the UAE. Learn what purity marks, assay office stamps, and country codes mean so you can confirm authenticity when shopping.