If you’re looking to invest in gold, the next step is often to buy it. But with so many brands and reports out there claiming that they have the best, purest, or most beautiful gold on earth, how do you know which one is right for you? Here’s a guide to understanding the difference between real gold and fake gold.
How to tell if gold is real?
The first and most important step is to determine if gold is real. To do this, you’ll need to look for certain clues. The three main telltale signs that gold is not fake are its weight, color, and luster.
Gold typically weighs more than other metals – meaning it has a higher value due to its scarcity. So, if the gold seems too light or thin, it’s probably not real. Gold also tends to have a slightly greenish hue, while gold that’s been plated with other metals may be more silver-colored. Gold also has a very high degree of luster – meaning it sparkles – which is not common in other metals. If the metal seems too matte or dull, it’s probably not real gold.
Gold is usually purer and more valuable than any other type of metal, so it ‘s common to see only gold coins and bars when buying gold. However, there are a few exceptions – such as .9999 fine gold bullion that is used in jewelry. Other forms of real gold include brass (a copper alloy), platinum, and silver.
Test With Nitric Acid
If you’re not sure if the gold you’ve bought is real, you can test it with nitric acid. This powerful chemical reacts with other elements in metals to reveal whether they are natural or artificial. Gold will turn a deep red color with nitric acid, while other metals will not. To confirm that the gold is really gold, do not touch it after touching the acid.
Test the Density
Another way to detect if gold is real is by testing its density. Gold tends to be denser than other metals, meaning a greater weight in terms of grams per inch3 (g/in3). Testing the density will not always confirm that gold is real, but it’s one method you can use to verify its authenticity.
Check Letter Mark
Gold that is stamped with a letter “A” or “Z” (as opposed to just the coin’s face) is usually real gold. Gold coins that are not stamped may be silver, copper, or another metal. If you have any other questions about buying gold or testing its authenticity, don’t hesitate to ask a jeweler.
Test Against a Ceramic Tile
If you’re still not sure if the gold is real, you can test it against a ceramic tile. Gold will not stick to a ceramic tile, while other metals may. If the gold does stick, it’s probably not real and should be returned to the store.
XRF Spectrometer
If you want to be absolutely certain that the gold is real, you can use an x-ray fluorescence spectrometer. This machine will identify any elements other than gold in the metal and show it on a screen.
The Size and Weight Test
Another way to confirm the authenticity of gold is by checking its size and weight. Gold should be round, heavy, and relatively small in comparison to other metals. It should also maintain a consistent weight when handled. If any of these criteria aren’t met, it’s probably not real gold and you should return it to the store for a refund or exchange.
Vinegar Test
Gold that has been exposed to vinegar will turn black and lose its shine. This test is not 100% accurate, but it can be used as a secondary method of verification.
Magnet Test
If you’re still not sure if the gold is real, you can test it using a magnet. Gold will be attracted to magnets while other metals will not. If the gold is real, it should remain attached to the magnet even after being pulled away.
Conclusion: How to tell if gold is real. Many people have been fooled by fake gold, so how can you tell the difference? First of all, make sure that the seller is a licensed dealer and that they are selling gold in its original form. Secondly, check out their history on the Internet and make sure they have no negative reviews.
