Got Gold Jewelry?
Have you inherited or discovered some jewelry and are unsure if it’s real gold or just costume?
In this blog, I’ll share with you five easy tips to quickly determine if you’re sitting on a hidden treasure or just a fun piece of fashion jewelry.
Interestingly, all you need to determine the authenticity of your bling are your senses.
Watch the video or read on to find out and do it for yourself:
Tip #1: Use your Eyes
The first clue often lies in the markings. Genuine gold jewelry typically features a hallmark indicating its karat purity. Look for stamps like 10K, 14K, 18K or even higher.
These are usually found on or near the clasp for necklaces or bracelets, on the post or backings of earrings, and on the bail (where the chain slides through) or back of pendants.
If there’s no stamp or it appears suspicious, it might be time to investigate further.
Special Note: Often times handmade or custom made may not be stamped since they are one of a kind and not mass manufactured.
Tip #2: Watch for Wear and Tear
Here’s a fun fact: real gold doesn’t tarnish, corrode, or change color over time.
If your jewelry has green marks, discoloration, or is revealing a different metal underneath, it’s probably not pure gold.
Special Note: If it’s too shiny and super smooth, it could be a sign that it’s just coated, not solid gold.
Tip #3: Feel it’s Weight
Your hands can help distinguish between silver, costume gold, and platinum. This is known as heft.
Genuine gold feels slightly heavier than silver or costume jewelry of comparable size.
Platinum, being a dense metal, feels heavier than gold and all the other metals.
Special Note: If a piece is definitely gold, but feels unusually light, it could be a sign that it’s hollow rather than solid.
Tip #4: Smell it
The nose KNOWS!
Real gold doesn’t smell. So, if your jewelry has a metallic smell, it could be an imposter.
Special Note: It’s normal for jewelry to smell like perfume, hair spray, moisturizer or other bodily odors, so don’t let that throw you off!
Tip #5: Use Common Sense
Finally, think about how much you paid for it.
Real gold is pricy. If the deal seemed too good to be true, it probably was.
When buying gold, always go for reputable sellers.
Special Note: Go to a professional to know for sure.
Need more help?
As a professional jeweler and appraiser, I have a few more tricks up my sleeve to tell if gold is real. If you’re still not sure, or need some help, book your free consultation. I’d love to help you out!
It’s easy, just click the blue button below if you have any questions or need any help, I would love to chat with you!
If you have old jewelry, you can redesign it into your new custom piece! You can get some amazing Inspiration Ideas, Click the Button Below to get my Free Jewelry Redesign Inspiration Kit:
And remember, sharing is caring. If you found this article helpful, don’t forget to share it with others who might also benefit from learning about these comfortable and adjustable ring designs. Until next time, stay sparkly!
