How to Tell if Your Gold Is Real — A Beginner’s Guide

How to Test if Gold Is Real at Home (And When to See a Professional)

Not All That Glitters Is Gold

With so many gold-plated, filled, and imitation pieces out there, it can be tricky to know whether what you have is real gold. Before you toss old jewelry into a drawer or, worse, sell it for less than it’s worth, take a few minutes to learn how to spot genuine gold.

Simple Ways to Test at Home

While professional testing at GoldWiser is always free and accurate, there are a few easy methods you can try first:

  • Look for Hallmarks: Check the inside of rings or clasps for marks like 10K, 14K, 18K, or 24K. You might also see “GF” (gold-filled) or “GP” (gold-plated).
  • The Magnet Test: Real gold isn’t magnetic. If your piece sticks to a magnet, it likely contains other metals.
  • The Skin Test: Wear the jewelry for a bit, real gold doesn’t discolor your skin.
  • The Float Test: Drop it gently into water. Real gold is dense and should sink right away.

When to Get a Professional Test

These home tests can give you clues, but they’re not foolproof. Only a professional appraisal can confirm exact purity and weight and that’s what determines your payout.

At GoldWiser, our team uses state-of-the-art testing tools to ensure your gold’s true value is revealed and that you get paid what it’s really worth.

Get Paid for What’s Real

Don’t rely on guesswork or outdated methods. Bring your gold to any GoldWiser location for a free, accurate evaluation. You’ll know instantly what’s real, what’s not, and how much your items are worth.

Visit us today:

The Woodlands – 24910 Kuykendahl Rd, The Woodlands, TX 77375
Conroe – 1235 N Loop 336 W, Conroe, TX 77301
Spring – 1122 Spring Cypress Rd, Spring, TX 77373


📞 (713) 568-2468 | 🌐 goldwiser.com