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10 DIY Tests To Check If Gold Is Real or Fake

If you have a piece of jewelry or coin and want to know if it’s real gold, there are several easy DIY methods you can try at home. These tests, ranging from the straightforward to the slightly more involved, will help you determine whether your gold is genuine. Here’s how to conduct these checks safely and effectively.

1. Visual Inspection for Markings

1. Visual Inspection for Markings
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The simplest test is a careful visual inspection. Using a magnifying glass or the zoom feature on your smartphone, look for a karat stamp, usually on the inner band of rings or near the clasp of bracelets and necklaces. Stamps like “14K,” “18K,” or “24K” indicate gold purity, while “GF” means gold-filled, which isn’t solid gold. Be cautious, as stamps alone aren’t foolproof, but this check can be a good first step.

2. Magnet Test

2. Magnet Test
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Gold isn’t magnetic, so a strong magnet (like a rare earth magnet) can be useful for weeding out fakes. Hold the magnet near your gold item. If it sticks, the piece likely contains iron or nickel and isn’t real gold. However, some fake pieces are made with non-magnetic metals, so this test isn’t always definitive. Remember to avoid the clasp area on chains since it may contain steel springs.

3. Vinegar Test

3. Vinegar Test
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White vinegar can help determine if gold is authentic. Scratch a small area on the item, then drop it in a container of vinegar or pour a bit on the scratch. If the item changes color or reacts in any way, it’s probably not real gold, as genuine gold won’t react to vinegar. This method is gentle enough not to damage real gold.

4. Bleach Test

4. Bleach Test
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Bleach is a more aggressive test and should be used with caution. First, scratch the item lightly to ensure you’ve broken through any plating. Place a few drops of bleach on the scratch, or leave it in a small container of bleach for about 30 minutes. If the item is fake, you’ll notice a reaction, such as discoloration or bubbling. Be cautious, as prolonged exposure can damage even real gold by corroding its alloyed metals.

5. Touchstone and Acid Kit

5. Touchstone and Acid Kit
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For a more thorough test, you can use a touchstone and acid kit, which are widely available online. This method involves rubbing the gold item on a dark touchstone and applying acids to the mark, starting with a low-karat acid and working up. If the mark dissolves, the item isn’t pure gold of that karat. Handle acids carefully and use gloves, as these chemicals can be harmful if mishandled.

6. Electronic Gold Tester

6. Electronic Gold Tester
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Electronic testers measure the conductivity of the metal and give a reading based on resistance. Attach the tester’s probe to the gold and watch the reading to see if it matches a karat level. Electronic testers are reliable and can distinguish between gold and other metals, though they require a bit of practice to use correctly.

7. Toothpaste Test

7. Toothpaste Test
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An unusual method is to rub a small amount of toothpaste on the gold. After rubbing, wipe off the toothpaste and inspect the item. If it’s gold-plated or fake, you may see discoloration. Real gold is unlikely to react or show changes after exposure to toothpaste, but keep in mind that this method can be somewhat inconclusive.

8. Lemon Juice Test

8. Lemon Juice Test
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Like vinegar, lemon juice is slightly acidic and can be used to check gold’s authenticity. Scratch the item lightly, then apply a few drops of lemon juice on the scratched area. If it reacts or changes color, it’s likely not real gold. This method is gentle and won’t harm real gold but is less precise than others.

9. Liquid Foundation Test

9. Liquid Foundation Test
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This surprising method involves using a liquid foundation as a test for gold. Apply a layer of foundation on your hand, let it dry, and then rub the gold item across it. Real gold will usually leave a darker streak due to its interaction with the makeup’s minerals, while fake gold often won’t leave any mark. While unconventional, this test can give you a quick idea of the gold’s authenticity.

10. Baking Soda Test

10. Baking Soda Test
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For this method, mix baking soda with water until it reaches a syrup-like consistency. Rub the mixture on your gold piece, let it sit for a few minutes, and wipe it clean. If the metal shows any change or discoloration, it’s likely not real gold. Be mindful, as this test may not provide absolute proof but can sometimes reveal if the gold is simply plated.

Not Foolproof

Not Foolproof
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Each of these methods can give you a clue about whether your gold is genuine, but they’re not foolproof. Some pieces may require multiple tests for a clearer answer, especially if they’re gold-plated or contain mixed metals. If you’re unsure or if the piece is valuable, consider bringing it to a professional for a more thorough evaluation. DIY gold testing can be a fun and educational way to inspect your jewelry, but it’s always best to rely on experts when it comes to valuable items.