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Gold testing methods / How to check gold purity

Here are some ways to test the purity of gold at home for Indian users:

1. Magnet Test

  • What to Do: Hold a magnet near the gold item.
  • What to Check: Pure gold is non-magnetic, so if the item is attracted to the magnet, it likely contains other metals.
  • Caution: This test only checks for magnetic metals like iron or nickel. Non-magnetic metals, like copper, won’t show a reaction either.

2. Float Test

  • What to Do: Drop the gold item into a glass of water.
  • What to Check: Pure gold is dense and will sink to the bottom. If it floats or hovers, it’s likely fake or mixed with lighter metals.
  • Caution: This test isn’t definitive for distinguishing between pure and impure gold but can identify heavily adulterated gold.

3. Ceramic Scratch Test

  • What to Do: Rub the gold item across an unglazed ceramic plate.
  • What to Check: If it leaves a gold streak, it’s likely real gold. If it leaves a black mark, the gold may be fake or of low purity.
  • Caution: Be gentle to avoid damaging your gold item.

4. Vinegar Test

  • What to Do: Place a few drops of vinegar on the gold item or soak it in vinegar for a few minutes.
  • What to Check: Pure gold won’t react to vinegar. If the metal changes color or tarnishes, it’s not pure gold.
  • Caution: Use this test cautiously to avoid damaging other metals in the item.

5. Nitric Acid Test

  • What to Do: Apply a small drop of nitric acid to the gold item.
  • What to Check: Real gold won’t react to nitric acid. Fake or impure gold may turn green or black, indicating a reaction.
  • Caution: Nitric acid is a strong chemical; use protective gear and perform this test outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.

6. BIS Hallmark Check

  • What to Do: Check for the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) hallmark on the gold item, usually in a tiny, stamped symbol.
  • What to Check: The hallmark certifies that the gold meets purity standards in India. Look for the BIS logo, purity in karats (e.g., 22K), and year of hallmarking.
  • Caution: Be familiar with what the BIS hallmark looks like to ensure it’s authentic.

7. Gold Density Test

  • What to Do: Weigh your gold item on a scale and then measure its volume by submerging it in water.
  • What to Check: Pure gold has a density of around 19.3 g/cm³. You can calculate density by dividing the mass by the volume (water displacement).
  • Caution: This test requires accurate measurement equipment to get precise results.

These methods can give a reasonable indication of gold purity at home, but for highly accurate results, a professional jeweler or testing center would be more reliable.


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