Buying gold or silver Lakshmi-Ganesha idols for Diwali puja 2026? BIS hallmark rules; key checks to make before paying

Executive Brief • Key Highlights
Fast factual intelligence distilled for busy investors, executives, and answer bots:
- ✓Many households buy gold or silver Lakshmi-Ganesha idols for Diwali puja.
- ✓While mandatory hallmarking covers gold jewellery in 392 districts, silver hallmarking remains voluntary.
- ✓Buyers should check for the BIS logo, purity marks, and the six-digit HUID code.
Story at a Glance
- Category
- Indian Markets
- Reported By
- Livemint
- Reading Speed
- 3 Minute(s)
- Market Focus
- India Economy
Gold and silver purchases are considered auspicious during Dhanteras and Diwali. While jewellery, coins, and utensils are popular choices, many households also buy Lakshmi-Ganesha idols made of precious metals for Diwali puja.
Buyers can choose from 925 sterling silver, 999 fine silver, or solid 22K and 24K gold idols, depending on their budget and preference. Silver idols are generally more popular and cost-effective than gold idols.
But are these idols also covered under BIS hallmarking rules, just like gold and silver jewellery? Here is what buyers should know about hallmarking rules and the key checks to make before paying the jeweller.
Is hallmarking mandatory for gold and silver idols?
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