How To Tell If Gold Is Real | 5 Simple Tests | BullionByPost

How to Tell if Gold is Real

Determining whether gold is genuine is an essential skill for anyone buying or selling gold coins, or bars. Whilst professional assaying provides absolute certainty, there are several basic tests you can perform at home to help identify fake gold. Understanding these methods can help you avoid counterfeit pieces and make informed decisions when purchasing precious metals. Whilst these methods can be useful in spotting fake gold, professional assessment is always recommended.

Test the Size and Weight

This test applies primarily to bullion coins and simply involves checking the size and weight of your coin. Bullion coins are made to a set of specifications, giving you a reference point to test the authenticity of your gold. Gold is one of the densest metals on the planet, with physical properties that are incredibly hard to replicate. This means that any metal used to copy a gold coin will likely be much less compact, and it would take more of it to replicate a certain weight of gold.

A fake one ounce Britannia, for example, would therefore need to be wider and/ or thicker to match the weight of a real one. Similarly, a fake gold Britannia with the same thickness and diameter as a real one would be noticeably lighter. Knowing the specified weight, diameter, and thickness of your gold coins will allow you to easily identify a fake.

Check for Gold Hallmarks

Authentic gold items typically bear hallmarks or stamps indicating their purity. UK gold hallmarks typically include the fineness mark (such as 375 for 9 carat, 585 for 14 carat, or 750 for 18 carat), the assay office mark, the date letter, and the maker's mark. These stamps are usually found on the inside of rings, the clasp of necklaces, or the back of earrings. However, be aware that hallmarks can be faked, so this should be your starting point rather than your only test. Foreign gold may use different marking systems, such as "10K", "14K", or "24K" commonly seen on American pieces.

Even when gold is genuine, it's crucial to verify that the carat grade matches what's been stated or stamped on the piece. Gold is frequently misrepresented – a piece stamped as 18 carat might be 14 carat or lower, significantly impacting its value. Since the price difference between 9 carat (37.5% pure gold) and 18 carat (75% pure gold) is substantial, unscrupulous sellers may apply false hallmarks or stamps to increase their profit margins. This is particularly common with imported jewellery and items from unregulated markets. The density test described below can help verify carat weight, as different purities have distinctly different densities. For valuable pieces, professional XRF analysis can determine the exact gold content, ensuring you're paying a fair price for the actual purity you're receiving. Never assume a stamp is accurate, especially when making significant purchases.

The Density Test

Gold is exceptionally dense, with a specific gravity of 19.3, which is significantly heavier than most other metals. You can test the density of gold at home with a precise scale and a graduated cylinder or measuring jug. First, weigh your gold item in grams. Then, fill a container with water and note the water level. Submerge the gold completely and measure how much the water level rises in millilitres. Divide the weight by the volume displaced. Pure gold should yield a result close to 19.3 grams per millilitre. For 9 carat gold (37.5% pure), expect around 11-12 g/ml, whilst 18 carat (75% pure) should measure approximately 15-16 g/ml.

The Magnet Test

Gold is not magnetic, making this one of the simplest preliminary tests. Hold a strong magnet (neodymium magnets work best) near your gold item. If the piece is attracted to the magnet, it's either not gold or contains a significant quantity of magnetic metals. However, passing the magnet test doesn't guarantee authenticity, as many gold-plated items or pieces made from non-magnetic metals like copper or brass will also not react to magnets. This test is most useful for quickly eliminating obvious fakes.

The Ceramic Scratch Test

This simple test can provide quick results but will leave a mark on your item. Find an unglazed ceramic plate or tile. Gently drag the gold across the ceramic surface. Real gold will leave a golden or slightly yellow streak, whilst fake gold or gold-plated items will typically leave a black or grey streak. The darker mark indicates base metals beneath any plating. Whilst this test can damage the item slightly, the mark is usually minimal and the test is quite reliable for distinguishing real gold from common fakes.

The Nitric Acid Test

Testing gold with nitric acid is a highly accurate method of determining if a coin or bar contains genuine gold. By applying a small drop of nitric acid to an inconspicuous area of the item (such as the inside of a ring). Real gold will not react to nitric acid and should remain unchanged. Gold-plated items will show green discolouration as the acid reacts with the base metal underneath. Items made entirely of base metals will fizz or turn green immediately.

The Skin Discolouration Test

Whilst not definitive, this test can offer clues. Hold the gold firmly in your hand for several minutes, then examine your skin. Real gold should not leave any discolouration on your skin. If you notice green or black marks, the item likely contains significant amounts of copper or other base metals. However, this test has limitations – some people's skin chemistry reacts differently to metals, and lower carat gold (which contains more alloy metals) may occasionally cause slight discolouration even when genuine.

The Sound Test

Experienced gold dealers can often identify real gold by its sound. When dropped onto a hard surface, pure gold produces a distinctive high-pitched ringing sound that lasts for a second or two. Base metals tend to produce a duller, shorter sound. This test works best with gold coins and requires practice to distinguish the subtle differences. It's most reliable when you can compare the sound to a piece of gold you know to be genuine.

Professional Gold Testing

Professional testing is always recommended to ensure the gold you invest in is genuine. Bullion dealers use sophisticated equipment including X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysers that can determine the exact composition of metal without damaging the item. These advanced machines can identify the precise purity and composition within seconds, providing certainty that home tests simply cannot match.

Investment Considerations

For those purchasing gold as an investment, buying from an established, professional bullion dealer is the most reliable way to ensure authenticity from the outset. Look for dealers who are members of professional trade associations such as the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA), which require adherence to strict standards and codes of conduct.

At BullionByPost, our gold bars come from LBMA-accredited refineries or national mints. We offer free, fully insured delivery and transparent pricing based on live gold prices, giving you complete confidence in your purchase.

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