Gold is a precious metal that is available in various colors and various levels of quality. The value of jewelry or other objects will depend largely on whether the gold in question is pure or gilded. To identify the quality of a metal object, start by looking at its surface. If you're still in doubt, move on to a more in-depth test, such as using vinegar. As a last resort, consider applying acid to the metal and see how it reacts.
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Method 1 of 3: Checking the Surface
Step 1. Look for the sign
Gold metal is usually stamped with a mark indicating its type. A stamp that reads “GF” or “HGP” indicates that the metal is gold plated, and not pure. On the other hand, pure gold jewelry has a “24K” mark or other stamp that indicates its purity. This mark is usually located inside the ring or near the necklace clasp.
- However, be aware that some signs can be faked. This is why you should not use this method as the only way to determine the authenticity of gold.
- The size of this sign can be very small. You may even need a magnifying glass to see it clearly.
Step 2. Look for fading around the edges of the object
Turn on a bright light or spotlight. Hold the metal near the lamplight. Turn it by hand so you can check all the edges of the object. If you notice that the edges of the gold appear to be faded or worn, it is likely gold-plated, which means the jewelery is not pure gold.
Step 3. Look for spots on the surface of the object
If you hold an object under a bright light, do you find white or red dots? These patches can be very small and difficult to see; this is why you need to look for it in bright light and may need a magnifying glass. These dots indicate the gold plate has worn out and the metal behind it is starting to show.
Step 4. Hold the magnet close to the object
Hold the magnet just above the object. Lower the magnet until it almost touches the surface of the object. If a magnet is attracted or repelled, the object is not pure gold. Other metals, such as nickel, respond to magnetism. Pure gold will not respond to magnets because it is non-ferrous (does not contain iron).
Method 2 of 3: Conducting In-depth Testing
Step 1. Rub on the surface of the object and watch for any discoloration
Take a pipette and fill it with white vinegar. Hold the metal object firmly or place it on a flat surface. Pour a few drops of vinegar on the object. If the vinegar changes the color of the metal, it's not real gold. If the color remains the same, there is a possibility that the gold is genuine.
Step 2. Rub the gold against the jeweler's stone
Place the black jeweler stone on the table. Hold the gold firmly. Rub enough gold on the jeweler to leave a mark. If the marks left on the stone look solid and gold in color, it means that the object is real gold. If there are no visible lines or are very faint, the gold is probably plated or not gold at all.
Be careful with this method as you can damage the jewelry. You also have to use the right gemstone to get accurate results. You can get them at a gold or jewelry store, your nearest jeweler, or online
Step 3. Rub the gold on the ceramic plate
Prepare glazed ceramic plates on the table or kitchen table. Hold your gold object. Rub things on the plate. See if any lines appear on the plate. The black line indicates the object is not gold or gilded.
Step 4. Test gold against foundation makeup
Wipe the top with a thin layer of liquid foundation. Wait for the foundation to dry. Press the metal object against the foundation, then pull. Pure gold will leave streaks on makeup. If there is no line, the gold is probably plated or not gold at all.
Step 5. Use an electric gold tester
This small tool is equipped with a pen with a probe on the tip; You can buy this tool online or through a jeweler. To analyze metals, rub a conductive “tester” gel on a metal object. This gel can usually be purchased where you purchased a gold test kit. After applying the gel, rub the probe against the object. The way the metal responds to electricity will determine the purity of the gold.
Use the user guide that came with the tool to determine the exact test results. Gold is a conductive metal so real gold will give a higher yield than plated
Step 6. Put the gold into the XRF machine
This machine is widely used by jewelers to determine the quality of gold samples instantly. Since the price of this tool is not suitable for home testing, don't buy it unless it will be used frequently. To use an XRF scanner, place metal in it, start the machine, and wait for the test results to come out.
Step 7. Take the gold to a professional tester
If you continue to get confusing test results, talk to a jeweler for another professional opinion. The gold examiner will perform an in-depth analysis of the metal content. This option will be quite expensive so you should only do it if it feels feasible.
Method 3 of 3: Performing an Acid Test
Step 1. Purchase an acid test kit to measure the purity of gold more accurately
You can purchase one of these devices through a jeweler's equipment dealer. This kit contains all the required materials along with a detailed instruction set. Make sure you read the instructions carefully before starting and ensure completeness of the equipment before starting.
The price of this device can be quite affordable, if purchased via the internet. The price is around IDR 450,000
Step 2. Check the needle for the carat value label
Your device will contain the number of needles that will be used to test different types of gold. Look for the carat value mark next to the needle. Each needle will also have a gold sample color on the tip. Use yellow needles for yellow gold and white needles for white gold.
Step 3. Make notches with the engraving tool
Flip things over until you find a piece that's quite hidden. Hold the engraving tool firmly, and make small divots (slices) in the metal. Your goal is to expose the inner layer of the associated metal.
Step 4. Put on gloves and protective eyewear
Since you'll be using acid, it's important to wear thick, snug gloves. It's also a good idea to wear protective goggles for extra safety. Try not to touch your face or eyes when handling the acid.
Step 5. Pour a drop of acid on the notch
Choose the right needle type according to the gold type. Then, hold the needle just above the notch. Push the needle plunger down until a drop of acid falls onto the divot.
Step 6. See the result
Pay close attention to the pre-made divot and where you dripped the acid. The acid will react to the metal and change to a certain color. Usually, if an acid turns a metal green, it means that the object is not pure metal, but a plate or a completely different metal. As test kits have different color indications, be sure to read this color guide carefully when interpreting test results.
