Unsure if Your Gold Is Real? Here's How to Check
Gold is more than just a piece of jewellery. It’s a gesture of love, a symbol of value, and often, a meaningful gift. But how can you be sure that your gold is real? Whether you've received a gold pendant as a present or purchased a piece online, knowing how to check its authenticity can save you from costly mistakes. Thankfully, there are a few simple ways to test your gold at home—no special tools required.
Here are four trusted methods to help you tell if your gold is real.
1. Start with the Hallmark
The hallmark is one of the most reliable ways to verify gold. It's a small, stamped marking that indicates the purity of your jewellery. For example, a 916 hallmark means the piece contains 91.6% pure gold, which is also known as 22K gold. Meanwhile, 999 indicates 99.9% purity, or 24K gold. You can usually find the hallmark discreetly stamped on the ring's inner band, near the necklace's clasp, or on the back of a pendant. If the hallmark is missing or unclear, it may be a sign that the item is not pure gold or not gold at all. Every piece at Glamor Gold is hallmarked with care, offering our customers full confidence in their purchase.
Try the Magnet Test
Gold is not magnetic. If your gold item is attracted to a strong magnet, it’s likely made with other metals or is merely gold-plated. You can try this at home using a strong household magnet, like those found in speakers or hardware tools. Simply hold the magnet near your gold piece—if it sticks or shifts toward the magnet, the gold may not be genuine. While this method isn’t conclusive, it’s a useful way to spot imitation metals.
3. Watch How Your Skin Reacts
Another way to tell if your gold is real is by wearing it and observing how your skin reacts. Real gold, particularly high-purity gold like 916, should not stain your skin or cause discolouration. If you notice your skin turning green, grey, or black after wearing a piece, it may indicate that the item contains other metals or is gold-plated. This reaction is especially common in Malaysia’s humid climate. That said, individuals with sensitive skin may still react to the alloy content in lower-karat gold such as 18K or below. But with 916 gold, you’re far less likely to experience any irritation or staining.
4. Do the Water Test
Gold is naturally dense and heavy, which means it should sink when placed in water. To try this at home, simply fill a cup with water and gently drop in your jewellery. If the piece sinks straight to the bottom, that’s a good sign. If it floats or falls slowly, it might be made from a lighter material or be hollow or be gold-plated. While this method alone won’t confirm the purity of your piece, it can offer a quick sense of whether the item is likely to be real gold.
5. Get a Second Opinion
While at-home tests can offer helpful clues, they’re not always definitive. If you're still unsure about your gold's authenticity, it's best to consult a professional. Certified jewellers and licensed pawn shops have the tools and expertise to test your jewellery accurately. Whether you're buying, selling, or just seeking peace of mind, getting a second opinion ensures you're making informed choices.
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Why This Knowledge Matters
Fake gold is more common than you might think, especially when buying second-hand or from unverified sources. Knowing how to identify real gold protects you from financial loss and helps you make purchases with confidence. Whether you're investing in gold for its value or choosing a meaningful gift, it’s worth taking the time to make sure it’s authentic.
Glamor Gold Gurantees Real 916 Gold
At Glamor Gold, we’re committed to crafting timeless 916 gold jewellery you can trust. From personalised pendants to everyday charms, each piece is made with care, hallmarked for purity, and delivered nationwide within three working days. Our customers don’t just wear gold—they wear stories, memories, and meaningful moments, made to last.
To explore our collection or learn more about custom designs, visit our official website https://www.glamorgold.co/ or follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. To inquire about customised 916 gold pendants, charms or other jewelleries, dm us on WhatsApp or email.