How to Tell if Your Gold or Silver is Real
Gold and silver have been prized for centuries, not just for their beauty, but also for their value. If you’ve ever come across a chain, ring, or coin and wondered, “Is this real?”, you’re not alone. At Worldwide Jewelry & Pawn, we’re asked this question every day.
Here’s a guide with simple at-home checks, the professional tests we use, and what to look for before you sell or pawn.
Check for Hallmarks or Stamps
The easiest way to start is by looking for a hallmark, a small stamp that indicates purity.
- Gold may be marked with numbers like 10K, 14K, 18K, or 24K.
- Silver often carries marks such as 925 (sterling silver), 800, or the word “STERLING.”
Keep in mind: Some jewelry is plated, and while it may have a stamp, it’s always best to confirm with further testing.
The Magnet Test
Gold and silver are non-magnetic, so they shouldn’t stick to a magnet. If your item does, it’s likely not pure, although some clasps and small parts may contain other metals that react.
This is a quick test, but not foolproof. Fake pieces sometimes pass, so don’t rely on this alone.
The Water Test (Silver)
For silver coins or jewelry, the drop test is a classic. Drop a small piece onto a flat surface: real silver makes a distinct, high-pitched “ping” sound, while fakes often sound dull.
Another option is the ice test: silver has high thermal conductivity, so an ice cube placed on silver will melt faster than on most other metals.
Acid Testing
Professional jewelers and pawn shops use acid tests to confirm authenticity. A small scratch is made on a testing stone, and a drop of acid reveals whether the metal reacts as true gold or silver.
At WWJP, we use this method daily, it’s reliable, quick, and accurate.
Weight and Density
Real gold and silver are dense metals. If a piece feels unusually light for its size, that’s a red flag. Pawn professionals often use precision scales and water displacement tests to check density.
What WWJP Looks For
When you bring your gold or silver to WWJP, here’s what we check:
- Hallmarks or identifying stamps
- Magnetic reaction
- Weight and density
- Professional acid testing
- Current market value (since prices fluctuate daily)
This ensures you get a fair, accurate offer based on the real value of your piece.
Final Thoughts
At-home tests can give you clues, but nothing beats a professional evaluation. Whether you’re cleaning out old jewelry, inheriting items, or just curious, bring your gold and silver to Worldwide Jewelry & Pawn. Our experts will test your items, explain the process, and make you a fair offer, no guessing, no hassle.
Stop by one of our six locations in South Bend, US933, Goshen, Elkhart, Mishawaka, or Kokomo to find out what your items are really worth.