How to Check if Your Gold Jewellery is Real (10 Easy Methods)
Gold jewellery carries both monetary and sentimental value, making authenticity an important consideration. Knowing whether your pieces are genuine helps protect your investment, preserves resale value, and provides peace of mind. Whether it’s a ring, chain, or necklace, the following tests will help you determine if your jewellery is real gold.
For those seeking high-quality, authentic pieces, explore our Yellow Gold Jewellery Collection to discover expertly crafted designs that are made to be cherished for a lifetime.
How to Check if Your Gold Jewellery is Real (Rings, Chains & Necklaces)
Gold can be easily tested at home using simple methods or verified by professional jewellers for more accurate results. Here are 10 reliable methods you can try, starting with simple home checks and moving towards advanced professional tests.
Examine for Hallmarks or Stamps
Look for hallmarking and karat stamps such as 18K or 22K, which indicate authenticity. Ensure the markings are clear, legible, and not faded. This applies whether you’re testing a ring, a chain, or a necklace.
Check Letter Markings
Some jewellery may carry markings such as GF (gold-filled), GP (gold-plated), or HGP, which signify that the piece is not pure gold. Gold-filled items have a layer of real gold over a base metal, while gold-plated items have an even thinner coating. Recognising these markings ensures you understand the actual composition of your jewellery before buying or selling.
Magnet Test
Real gold is not magnetic, so if your jewellery is attracted to a magnet, it likely isn’t real gold. Use a small, strong magnet and hold it close to your jewellery. This method works as a quick home test to detect base metals beneath gold plating.
Float Test
Real gold is dense and heavy. Drop your jewellery into a glass of water—genuine gold will sink immediately. If the piece floats or hovers, it may contain other metals. This simple test is best used in combination with different methods for enhanced accuracy.
Makeup Test
Apply a small amount of foundation to your jewellery and rub gently. If black streaks appear, it may indicate that the piece is fake or plated. This method works best on smooth surfaces and is non-invasive, making it safe for most jewellery.
Scratch Test
Lightly scratch your jewellery on a testing stone and apply acid to the scratch mark. Real gold will resist the acid, while fake gold may react and change colour. This test is effective but can damage delicate pieces, so it should be used with caution.
Vinegar Test
Pour a few drops of vinegar on your jewellery. Real gold will not react, while base metals in fake jewellery may discolour or bubble. Always rinse the piece thoroughly afterward, as vinegar can leave a residue or cause minor discolouration.
Lighter Test
Gently heat the jewellery with a lighter for a few seconds. Real gold remains unchanged, while fake gold or gold-plated pieces may discolour, burn, or produce smoke. This test should be performed carefully, away from flammable materials.
Nitric Acid Test
Nitric acid reacts differently with real and fake gold. When applied, genuine gold will resist the acid, while counterfeit pieces will show visible reactions such as bubbling, discolouration, or green residue. Because of the chemical risks, this test should only be conducted by professionals.
Consult a Professional Jeweller
For the most reliable verification, visit a trusted jeweller. At Love & Co., our experts can confirm whether your jewellery is genuine gold using professional-grade testing equipment. We also provide guidance on care, maintenance, and assurance of authenticity, giving you complete confidence in your jewellery pieces.
Final Thoughts on Checking Real Gold Jewellery
Knowing how to check if your gold jewellery is real is essential for protecting your investment and enjoying your pieces with confidence. Each method—from examining hallmarks and letter markings to performing magnet, float, and acid tests—offers insights into the authenticity of your gold bracelet, ring or chain.
For best results, combining several tests increases accuracy and helps confirm your jewellery's genuineness. While simple home checks provide a quick guide, professional verification adds an extra layer of certainty.
At Love & Co., every piece of gold jewellery is crafted to meet the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Explore our collections of genuine gold jewellery gifts today and discover designs made with care, precision, and timeless beauty—perfect for celebrating life’s most cherished moments.
