Top 10 Methods to Identify Fake Gold

Identifying real and fake gold is essential, especially in the UK, where authenticity protects your investment and builds trust. Fake gold can lead to significant financial losses, whether you’re buying jewelry or investing in bullion.

This risk is increased when purchasing from private sellers or less reputable dealers. To ensure peace of mind, always buy from trusted sources. 

At NextDayBullion, our gold bullion bars are manufactured by LBMA-approved refiners, and our coins are carefully checked for weight, metal content, and authenticity, guaranteeing the gold you purchase is genuine. 

Methods to Identify Fake Gold

Here are some simple methods to verify if your gold is real, ranging from quick at-home tests to advanced professional techniques.

Quick Visual Checks for Authenticity

When checking if gold is real, there are a few quick visual checks you can do. Here are some important things to look for:

1. Look for Hallmarks

In the UK, gold items have hallmarks that show they are genuine. These hallmarks are regulated by Assay Offices, which are organizations that test and mark precious metals. The main Assay Offices in the UK are in Birmingham and London.

UK-Specific Hallmarks:

• Birmingham Assay Office: Look for the anchor symbol. This office tests and marks gold and silver items.
• London Assay Office: This hallmark features a leopard’s head and is another trusted source for marking precious metals.

Purity Stamps:

• “750”: This stamp indicates the gold is 18K, meaning it contains 75% pure gold and 25% other metals. Higher numbers (like “999”) indicate higher purity, while lower numbers (like “585”) indicate lower purity.

2. Inspect for Letter Markings

Letter markings on gold jewelry can indicate the type and quality of the gold.

• “GF” (Gold Filled): Indicates a layer of gold bonded to a base metal. It contains some gold but is not solid gold and has less value.
• “GP” (Gold Plated): This means the item has a thin gold layer over another metal. This layer may wear off, exposing the base metal.
• “EPNS” (Electroplated Nickel Silver): Indicates a decorative gold finish over nickel silver, with no real gold content.

These markings help you distinguish real gold from lower-quality alternatives.

3. Examine Wear and Tear

Authentic gold has unique physical properties that can be identified by observing how it wears over time.

• Signs of Real Gold:

• Gold is a soft metal and will show dents or scratches but will not flake or peel.
• Even with wear, the color remains consistent because gold is uniform throughout.

• Signs of Fake Gold:

• If the surface wears off to reveal a silver or copper color underneath, it is plated and not solid gold.
• Flaking or peeling is common in items that are gold-plated rather than solid gold.

Simple At-Home Tests

Here are some easy tests you can do at home to check if your gold is real:

4. Magnet Test

Gold is non-magnetic, so it will not be attracted to a magnet. To perform this test:

• Use a strong neodymium magnet (not a regular kitchen magnet) to check your gold item.
• If your gold item sticks to the magnet, it’s not real gold. Note that clasps or fasteners on jewelry might include magnetic metals, so focus on the main body of the piece.

5. Skin Test

The skin test is based on how certain metals react with human skin:

• Hold the gold item in your hand for a few minutes to let your skin perspire.
• If you notice green or bluish marks, the item is likely an alloy with copper or nickel. Real gold is inert and won’t discolor your skin. This method is effective for identifying gold-plated items.

6. Ceramic Scratch Test

This test uses the streak left by gold on an unglazed ceramic surface:

• Obtain an unglazed ceramic tile or plate.
• Gently rub the gold item on the ceramic surface.
• If the streak is golden, the item is likely real gold. A black streak indicates it is not pure gold or is a counterfeit. Be cautious, as this test might leave marks on both the gold and the ceramic.

These methods are simple and effective, but combining multiple tests will give you more reliable results. For higher-value items, consider professional evaluation.

Chemical Tests for Gold

Here are two chemical tests you can use to check if your gold is real. Remember to take safety precautions when handling chemicals.

7. Vinegar Test

• Place a few drops of white vinegar on your gold item.
• Real gold will not change when exposed to vinegar. It will remain the same color and will not show any reaction. If the gold item changes color or shows any discoloration, it is likely not genuine gold.

8. Nitric Acid Test

Warning: This test involves using nitric acid, which is a strong chemical. Always wear gloves and safety goggles, and work in a well-ventilated area. Keep the acid away from your skin and eyes.

• Place a small drop of nitric acid on your gold item.
• Real gold resists corrosion, so it will not react with nitric acid. If the item is fake, you may see bubbles or discoloration where the acid touches it. This reaction indicates that the item contains metals that do not withstand the acid.

Professional and Advanced Methods for Testing Gold

For more accurate verification of gold authenticity, professional methods can be used. Here’s an overview of some advanced testing techniques:

9. Density Test

The density of gold can be measured using water displacement.

Steps:

• Measure the Volume of Water: Fill a graduated cylinder with a known volume of water (e.g., 100 mL).
• Submerge the Gold Item: Carefully place the gold item in the water. Make sure it is fully submerged without touching the sides.
• Measure the New Water Level: Note the new water level (e.g., 105 mL).

Calculate Density:

• Volume of Gold (V) = New Water Level – Original Water Level
• In this example: V = 105 ml−100 ml = 5 ml

Density Formula:

Density = MassVolume

Example: If the gold item weighs 15 grams, then:

          Density =   15g5ml = 3 g/l

Real gold has a density of approximately 19.3 g/mL. If your calculated density is significantly lower, the item may not be real gold.

10. Electronic Tester or XRF Spectrometer

Professional tools like electronic testers and XRF (X-ray fluorescence) spectrometers are used to analyze gold.

How They Work:

• XRF Spectrometer: This device uses X-ray technology to determine the composition of the metal. It can accurately measure the purity of gold and identify any other metals present.
• Electronic Tester: This handheld device can provide a quick reading of gold purity based on electrical conductivity.

These tools are commonly used by UK dealers and professionals for precise testing. They provide reliable results and can help ensure the authenticity of gold items.

Important Tips for Buyers in the UK

When purchasing gold or precious metals in the UK, it’s essential to take steps to ensure that you are buying authentic products. Here are some important tips to help you make informed decisions:

Buy From Reputable UK Dealers

• Trusted Sources: Always buy from reputable dealers to minimize the risk of counterfeit products. Consider trusted dealers like NextDayBullion, which provides high-quality gold with guaranteed authenticity.
• Obtain Receipts and Certificates: Always ask for receipts and certificates of authenticity when you make a purchase. These documents serve as proof of your transaction and can be crucial if you need to verify the authenticity of your gold later on. They also help establish the item’s provenance, which is important for resale or insurance purposes.

Seek Professional Verification

If you have any doubts about the authenticity of your gold, seek verification from an expert jeweler or an Assay Office. 

Professional verification can provide peace of mind and confirm the quality and purity of your purchase. Assay Offices in the UK are authorized to test and certify precious metals, ensuring that you are getting what you pay for.

FAQs

Why is a hallmark important for UK gold?

Hallmarks ensure that the gold has been independently tested and meets legal standards for purity, helping buyers trust the authenticity of their purchase.

What is the easiest way to check if gold is real?

Simple visual checks, such as looking for hallmarks or performing a magnet test, can quickly help determine if gold is genuine.

Can I test white gold with these methods?

Yes, many of the same methods used for yellow gold, such as the magnet test and density test, can also be applied to white gold.

How can I tell if my gold jewelry is plated or filled?

Look for letter markings like “GF” (Gold Filled) or “GP” (Gold Plated) to identify lower-quality gold items.

How does the density test work for identifying fake gold?

The density test measures how heavy an object is compared to its volume using water displacement; real gold has a specific density that can help confirm its authenticity.

What sound should real gold make when tapped?

Real gold produces a distinct, clear ringing sound when tapped, which lasts longer than sounds made by fake or lower-quality metals.

Are electronic testers reliable for checking gold authenticity?

Yes, electronic testers and XRF spectrometers are professional tools that provide accurate assessments of gold purity without damaging the item.