Buyer Beware: How to Spot Fake Silver Jewelry and Ensure Authenticity

That silver payal gifted during Raksha Bandhan, the kada you buy before a wedding, or the shiny bowl used for prasad, silver has always held a special place in Indian homes. But while silver jewellery and items remain timeless, the sad truth is that the market is flooded with fakes. Many sellers mix in cheap alloys that not only reduce value but can also cause skin allergies and rashes. With festive shopping and gifting so common in India, knowing whether your silver is pure has never been more important.According to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), hallmarking is still the most reliable way to ensure purity. In fact, recent updates in hallmarking laws are meant to protect buyers, yet counterfeit items continue to slip into local markets and even online stores.So how do you make sure the payal, bangle, or chain you buy is authentic? The answer lies in learning how to identify real silver jewellery with a mix of hallmark checks and simple home tests that anyone can try.When you shop for silver, knowing how to identify real silver jewellery can save you money and protect your health. Here are five reliable tests to help you distinguish genuine silver from imitations.The most dependable way to confirm authenticity is to check for a hallmark. BIS-certified silver jewellery comes with a hallmark that includes the BIS logo, a purity grade such as 925 (indicating 92.5 per cent silver), and the jeweller’s identification mark. These symbols guarantee that the piece has passed official purity checks. Without hallmarking, even the shiniest silver could turn out to be fake or low in purity. If you truly want peace of mind, always buy hallmarked jewellery from trusted sellers.Genuine silver is not magnetic. When you place a magnet near your jewellery, it should not stick or show strong attraction. If it does, it is likely made with other metals such as iron, nickel, or steel. While this test is simple, remember that some fake pieces may use non-magnetic alloys, so the magnet test works best when combined with other methods.One of the easiest ways to know how to identify real silver jewellery is by observing tarnish. Real silver reacts with air and sulphur over time, leading to a dull or blackened appearance. This tarnish can be polished away with a soft cloth, revealing the shiny silver underneath. Fake silver often does not tarnish naturally, and if it does, polishing will not restore the original shine. If your piece regains its sparkle after polishing, it is more likely to be genuine.Authentic silver jewellery has a distinctive sound when tapped gently. If you strike it lightly with another piece of metal, real silver will produce a clear, ringing tone that lingers for a few seconds. Fake or plated jewellery often makes a dull, short sound. While this test requires a bit of practice, it is a classic way jewellers and collectors identify real silver jewellery.Silver has one of the highest thermal conductivities among metals, which means it transfers heat and cold very efficiently. To try this at home, place an ice cube on your silver jewellery. If it begins to melt quickly, your piece is likely genuine. Fake metals do not conduct heat as well, so the ice will melt much more slowly. This is a fun and practical way to identify real silver jewellery without damaging it.While home tests are useful, experts and the BIS emphasise that hallmarking is the gold standard for authenticity. It ensures purity, prevents fraud, and helps customers get fair value for their money. Since 2021, hallmarking has been made mandatory in many parts of India, making it easier than ever to shop confidently. If you are unsure about how to identify real silver jewellery, always start by looking for the hallmark before performing any at-home tests.Learning how to identify real silver jewellery is an essential skill for anyone who loves buying ornaments or gifts. From hallmarking to simple checks like magnet and ice cube tests, you now have multiple ways to verify authenticity. Counterfeit silver is becoming more common, but by staying informed and checking for hallmarks, you can protect both your money and your health. The next time you admire a shiny bracelet or pair of earrings, remember these simple tips before you buy.Disclaimer: The information in this article is intended for general awareness only and should not be taken as professional or legal advice. While the tips shared can help you understand how to identify real silver jewellery, the most reliable way to confirm purity is through BIS hallmarking or testing by an authorised jeweller. Always consult certified sellers or experts before making significant purchases.Also read| Jeff Bezos backs Sydney Sweeney's new lingerie line brand for global fashion success: Report