How to tell if your jewellery is real gold
Gold jewellery has been treasured for centuries, but not every gold-coloured piece is made from genuine gold. Whether you have inherited jewellery, found an old piece, or are considering selling unwanted items, it is important to know how to identify real gold. Fortunately, there are several simple ways to determine this.
- Check for hallmarks
One of the easiest ways to identify real gold is by looking for a hallmark. In the UK, genuine gold jewellery is usually stamped with a mark indicating its purity. Common hallmarks include:
- 375 (9ct gold)
- 585 (14ct gold)
- 750 (18ct gold)
- 916 (22ct gold)
These marks are often found on clasps, inside rings, or on the back of pendants. While hallmarks can be a good indicator, it is worth remembering that older pieces may have worn stamps, and counterfeit hallmarks do occasionally exist.
- Look for signs of wear
Real gold does not tarnish, rust, or corrode. If your jewellery has areas where the gold colour has worn away to reveal a different metal underneath, it may be gold-plated rather than solid gold. Pay particular attention to edges, clasps, and areas that experience regular friction. However, some genuine gold items contain alloys that can show slight wear over many years, so visual inspection alone is not always enough.
- Perform a magnet test
Gold is not magnetic. A simple household magnet can provide a useful clue. If your jewellery is strongly attracted to a magnet, it likely contains other metals and may not be solid gold. That said, this test is not definitive. Some non-gold metals are also non-magnetic, so passing the magnet test doesn’t automatically confirm authenticity.
- Check the weight
Gold is a dense metal and generally feels heavier than costume jewellery of a similar size. If a piece feels unusually light, it may be made from a cheaper metal or simply be gold-plated. Experienced jewellers and gold buyers can often identify potential gold items by weight and feel alone, although professional testing is always recommended for an accurate assessment.
- Consider professional testing
The most reliable way to determine whether jewellery is real gold is through professional testing. Reputable gold buyers like ourselves use specialist equipment, including acid testing and X-ray fluorescence technology, to accurately measure gold purity without damaging the item. Professional testing can also identify the exact carat value, helping you understand the true worth of your jewellery before deciding whether to sell it.
Many people are surprised to discover that old, broken, or unwanted jewellery contains genuine gold and can be worth more than expected. Even damaged chains, single earrings, or pieces may have significant value based on their gold content. If you are unsure whether your jewellery is real gold, getting a professional valuation can provide clarity.
Here at Devon Gold Jewellers, we offer honest, transparent gold valuations backed by decades of experience industry. Whether you visit us in person or use our secure postal service, we are happy to assess your items and provide a no-obligation valuation.