How to tell if a gold chain is real?

Gold chains are classical jewels. But what do you know about how to tell if a gold chain is real? In this post, we'll outline several simple methods of testing gold chains to confirm their authenticity, whether purchased new or received as gifts!

1. Examine the Stamp

The stamp or hallmark of the quality gold chains is one of the most important indicators.

What is a hallmark?

One such characteristic is a mark of the purity of the gold, which can be positioned near the joining of the chains and jewelry item and will tell the customers the source of the item and, in certain instances, the name of the refiner.

• Common gold stamps: 24K means that it is pure gold, and 14K and 18K mean that it is mixed.

Assuming that your gold chain has one of these stamps, that is also a sign that it is a genuine one. Nevertheless, have an open mind because the fake ones might have the same markings as well; you should make further checks to ensure that these signs are not painted on fake products.

2. Conduct a Magnet Test

Gold chains do not react magnetically, so one easy way of testing them with magnetism would be using one as part of your inspection procedure.

How to Test

Simply place a magnet close to your chain. When it attracts to it, it means that it must be made of some other metal, but when it does not, it means it must be neutral, and that is a positive sign.

This test, however, cannot be considered to be 100% accurate since some counterfeit chains have non-magnetic metals that will not pass this test.

3. Take an Acid Test

To get more accurate results, consider conducting an acid test.

How it Works

Gold testing kits can be purchased either online or from jewelry stores and come equipped with different acids that enable users to evaluate their purity. By applying some acid directly onto small scratches on chains, these reactions indicate the karat.

This test is more reliable but must be administered carefully or by a trained professional.

4. Consult With Professionals

If in doubt, having your chain checked by an expert jeweler would always be wise.

Why Visit a jeweler?

Jewelers possess the tools and experience necessary to quickly detect real gold. Additionally, they provide certificates certifying your chain as authentic.

At Pompeii3, one can find a great assortment of genuine jewelry pieces, including gold chains, wedding ring sets, cross necklaces, and cross gold engagement rings. Our well-trained personnel would be more than happy to aid in the process of ascertaining whether a chain which you possess is real gold or not.

5. Look Out for Wear

True gold does not fade away with time. When your chain begins to wear out and turn green or black, or when it exhibits any other indications of a fake gold piece, then you can be quite sure that it is probably not actually gold and must not be relied upon as a piece of jewelry.

When the gold chain starts discolouring or fading somewhere close to where it rubs in contact with your skin, then this may be a sign that it might be fake.

6. Measure The Weight

Gold is not light; a real chain of the same is expected to be heavier than a chain of cheaper material.

How to Test

Holding the chain in your hands, touch it; it will have weight. You may find it light, which means that it is not gold.

Final Thoughts

So, how to tell if a gold chain is real? To test a gold chain to determine its genuineness, apply various tests. Test its hallmark; perform magnet and acid tests; see a jeweler. We sell good jewelry at Pompeii3 in the form of wedding ring sets, gold chains and engagement rings so that you can afford to make purchases knowing that our jewelry is genuine.

With these easy tips, it will serve to make sure that you only get the real beauty and worth of gold chain purchases!