To the eye of the layman, the colors platinum, silver, and sterling look the same. However, with a little practice, you can spot the difference!
Step
Method 1 of 4: Checking Jewelry
Step 1. Check for distinguishing marks on the jewelry
This mark is usually engraved on the metal. If the jewelry has a clasp, there may be markings on it. Jewelry can also have a marked metal label hanging from the end. Finally, find the largest piece of jewelry.
If the jewelry doesn't have markings, it's probably not very valuable
Step 2. Look for silver jewelry marks
Some coins or jewelry have a stamp that reads the number “999”. This number indicates the metal is made of pure silver. If you see a stamp that reads the number “925” followed by the letter “S”, you likely have sterling silver. Sterling silver contains 92.5% pure silver mixed with another metal, usually copper.
- For example, a stamp that reads “S925” indicates sterling silver jewelry.
- Pure silver jewelry is very rare because pure silver is very soft and easily damaged.
Step 3. Find the mark on the platinum jewelry
Platinum is a very expensive metal. Therefore, all platinum jewelry is marked to indicate its authenticity. Look for the words “Platinum”, “PLAT”, or “PT” followed or the numbers “950” or “999.” This number refers to the purity of the platinum, with the number “999” indicating the purest platinum.
For example, genuine platinum jewelry may have a stamp that reads “PLAT999”
Step 4. Hold the magnet close to the jewelry
Most precious metals are not magnetized. So, if you try to get closer to the magnet and see the movement of the jewelry. However, don't panic if platinum jewelry reacts with magnets. Pure platinum is a soft metal so it is strengthened with other metals, such as cobalt because of its hardness. Cobalt is a metal that can react with magnets.
- Platinum/cobalt alloys are usually stamped with PLAT, Pt950, or Pt950/Co.
- Copper metal is most often used to strengthen sterling silver. If you have sterling silver jewelry with a.925 stamp that reacts to magnets, see a trusted jeweler to make sure it's authentic.
Method 2 of 4: Using an Acid Scratch Testing Kit
Step 1. Use an acid test kit on jewelry that is difficult to determine authenticity
If you can't find a stamp or have any doubts about the origin of the jewelry, use a test kit to determine the material of the jewelry. You can buy this device online or at a jewelry store. The kit includes an emery stone and some bottled acid.
- Buy a device that can test for silver and platinum. Read the label on the bottle to find out which metals can be acid-tested.
- Purchase gloves if the kit is not provided. Acid can burn your skin.
Step 2. Rub the jewelry on the stone
Place the black stone on a flat surface. Rub the jewelry carefully in a back and forth motion to create a line. Draw 2-3 lines on the stone or one for each test acid to be used. For example, to test platinum, silver and gold, you need to make 3 lines.
- Choose an inconspicuous piece of jewelry and rub it against the stone. This stone will scratch and damage small parts of the jewelry.
- Spread a towel under the stone so you don't scratch the work area.
Step 3. Drop the acid on the dissimilar metal line
Select the test acid from the device and carefully drop it onto one of the lines. Make sure not to mix different acids so as not to affect the results.
- Most testers have a specific acid for silver. However, you can also use an 18 ct gold test acid on pure silver and sterling.
- Always wear gloves when using acid.
Step 4. Watch the acid reaction
This reaction can occur within seconds to minutes. If the line completely dissolves, your test fails. For example, if you drip acid for platinum on a line on your jewelry, and the line then dissolves, it means your jewelry isn't made of platinum. On the other hand, if the line does not dissolve, the jewelry metal is genuine.
- If you use acid for 18-karat gold, the color of the stripes will turn milky white. This means that your jewelry is pure silver or sterling.
- If you have doubts about the results of the tests performed, test again to be sure.
Method 3 of 4: Using the Test Solution Directly on Silver
Step 1. Use a silver-testing solution on large, hard pieces of jewelry
Do not use this acid for fragile and detailed jewelry. The acid will corrode the parts it touches. If you purchased an acid scratch test kit, use the test solution that comes with it. You can also buy this solution online or at a jewelry store.
Step 2. Jewelry test
Drop a small amount of the test solution on the jewelry. Select a hidden area in the jewelry as a testing ground. For example, if you are testing a bracelet, drip a solution on the inside. If the jewelry being tested is a necklace, drip acid on the back of one part of the necklace.
- Wear gloves to protect your hands and spread out a towel to protect your work surface.
- Do not drip acid on the buckle or other important parts. Acids can damage small details in jewelry.
Step 3. Monitor the acid reaction
At first the acid will look brown or clear, and then change color. This new color will signify the purity of the metal. For example, if the liquid turns dark or bright red, the metal is at least 99% pure silver.
- If the solution turns white, it means the metal contains 92.5% silver, aka sterling silver.
- If the color turns turquoise, the jewelry is made of copper or another lower quality metal.
Step 4. Remove the acid from the jewelry
Wipe the acid with a clean cloth and throw it away. Rinse the jewelry in cold water to get rid of any residual acid. Plug your sink to prevent jewelry from getting into the drainage. Let the jewelry air dry before putting it back on.
Method 4 of 4: Testing Jewelry with Hydrogen Peroxide
Step 1. Soak the jewelry in hydrogen peroxide
First, fill a glass bowl or cup with hydrogen peroxide. Next, put the jewelry into the bowl. Jewelry should be completely submerged. Otherwise, add hydrogen peroxide.
Hydrogen peroxide can be purchased at most supermarkets or pharmacies
Step 2. Watch the reaction on the jewelry
Platinum is a strong hydrogen peroxide catalyst. If your jewelry is real platinum, the hydrogen peroxide will start to bubble right away. Silver is a weaker catalyst. If bubbles don't appear right away, wait a minute and look for bubbles around the metal.
Hydrogen peroxide will not corrode jewelry
Step 3. Rinse the jewelry well
Rinse the jewelry in cold water to remove the hydrogen peroxide. Plug the sink or use a strainer while washing to prevent jewelry from entering the drain. Let the jewelry air dry before putting it back on.
