Buying and selling gold is increasingly in demand by many people as a safe and profitable form of investment. However, not a few are deceived by fake gold sold at tempting prices. For this reason, it is important for you to know the difference between real and fake gold so that you are not easily fooled. By knowing the characteristics of real gold, you can be more careful in choosing and buying gold, both for investment and as jewelry.

Real gold has guaranteed quality and a higher price compared to fake gold. In contrast, fake gold is usually made from a mixture of other metals that have low value. To help you avoid fraud, here are 5 differences between real and fake gold that you need to know.

1. Marks and Stamps on Gold

One of the easiest differences between real and fake gold is the stamp or mark on the gold. Real gold usually comes with a stamp or logo from the manufacturer as well as a clear gold content. For example, gold bars or jewelry usually have karat markings such as “24K” or “22K”, which indicate the purity level of the gold.

Counterfeit gold, on the other hand, often does not have a clear stamp or only has a stamp that is not up to standard. An incorrectly stamped or missing stamp is an indication that the gold is not genuine. You can use this mark to ensure that the gold you are buying is real gold and not counterfeit.

2. Test the Weight and Density of Gold

Real gold has a distinctive weight and density. One way to tell the difference between real and fake gold is to weigh and test the weight. Real gold has a higher density compared to other metals, so it will feel heavier when held.

If you are holding gold that feels lighter than it should, it is most likely fake gold. To test the density of gold, you can use a more precise weight measuring device or compare the weight of the gold with real gold of a similar size. This way, you can find out whether the gold you have is real or fake.

3. Check with a Magnet

Magnets are one of the easiest ways to tell the difference between real and fake gold. Real gold will not be attracted by a magnet due to its non-magnetic nature. However, fake gold is often made of a mixture of other metals such as iron or nickel that can cause the metal to be attracted by a magnet.

You can try this simple method by bringing the magnet closer to the gold you want to test. If the gold is attracted or sticks to the magnet, it is a sign that the gold is fake. However, if the gold is not attracted, then it is most likely genuine. This is a practical and easy way to ensure the authenticity of your gold.

Also Read: 5 Reasons Digital Gold is the Safest Investment – Treasury

4. Note the Color and Luster of Gold

Real gold has a distinctive color, which is bright yellow and shiny, especially in 24 karat gold. The color and luster of real gold will be maintained even if it has been used for a long time. Real gold also has resistance to oxidation and corrosion, so it still looks new and shiny.

In contrast, the difference between real and fake gold in color can be seen if the gold is faded, dull, or even blackish. This usually happens to fake gold made from a mixture of other metals that are easily oxidized. You can also try rubbing the gold on a smooth surface, as real gold will not scratch or lose its luster.

5. Do the Acid Test or Nitric Acid Test

One of the most accurate ways to tell the difference between real and fake gold is to use the acid test. You can bring the gold you want to test to a laboratory or jewelry store that provides acid test services. This test involves dripping nitric acid on the surface of the gold, and if the gold is genuine, no significant reaction will occur.

Fake gold, on the other hand, will experience discoloration or other chemical reactions when nitric acid hits its surface. Although this method is more complicated and requires specialized tools, the results are very accurate and reliable to confirm the authenticity of gold. If you have any doubts, having an acid test done at a trusted place will be very helpful.

Recognizing the difference between real and fake gold is very important so that you are not deceived when buying gold, either for investment or personal collection. By knowing the characteristics of real gold, such as clear marks and stamps, the right weight, resistance to magnets, distinctive color and luster, and conducting acid tests, you can ensure that the gold you buy is genuine and has the right value.

Not only that, digital gold is also guaranteed authenticity without worry. Digital gold, such as those available in trusted applications, are stored safely and transparently, so you can invest without fear of getting fake gold. By understanding the differences between real and fake gold, you can invest with peace of mind and get maximum benefits.