Silver payal (anklets) are a beautiful blend of tradition, elegance, and wellness benefits. However, with so many fake and impure silver products in the market, it’s essential to know how to identify pure silver payal before making a purchase. In this guide, we’ll help you distinguish real silver from imitations so you can buy with confidence.
1. Check for Hallmark and Purity Stamp
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Authentic silver jewelry in India carries a BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) Hallmark.
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Look for a 925 stamp, indicating 92.5% pure sterling silver, which is the standard for high-quality silver payal.
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Some sellers may use “999” for fine silver (99.9% purity), but it is softer and less durable for anklets.
2. Conduct a Magnet Test
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Pure silver is not magnetic.
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If a silver payal is attracted to a magnet, it may contain other metals like iron or nickel.
3. Perform an Ice Cube Test
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Silver has high thermal conductivity and melts ice faster than other metals.
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Place an ice cube on the payal—if it melts quickly, the silver is likely pure.
4. Use the Sound Test
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Tap the silver payal with a metal object.
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Pure silver produces a clear, high-pitched ringing sound, while fake silver has a dull or tin-like sound.
5. Check for Tarnishing
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Real silver tarnishes over time due to oxidation, forming a blackish layer.
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If the payal doesn’t tarnish at all, it may be silver-plated rather than pure silver.
6. Try the Nitric Acid Test (For Experts)
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Place a drop of nitric acid on the silver. If it turns green, it is fake; if it turns milky white, it’s pure silver.
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This test should only be performed by a jeweler to avoid damaging the payal.
7. Buy from Trusted Sellers
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Always purchase from reputable jewelers or certified online stores like SilverAdda.
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Ask for a purity certificate or invoice mentioning the silver quality.
Conclusion
Investing in pure silver payal ensures durability, beauty, and health benefits. By following these simple tests—such as checking for hallmarks, performing a magnet test, and buying from trusted sellers—you can confidently purchase authentic silver payal without getting scammed.