How to Test Gold Jewelry in NZ?
Gold jewelry is valuable and so beautiful. But do you know how to confirm if the gold is real? There are several ways of checking your gold in New Zealand. You are buying, selling, or just curious whether your gold jewellery is genuine. These methods can check this for you. Here is How to test gold jewelry in NZ!
Why test gold jewelry?
1. Authenticity
Gold is costly. Sadly, there is also fake gold. Testing will confirm whether it is real gold.
2. Know Its Value
The carat value determines its price. Testing verifies this value.
3. Protect Against Frauds
Testing while buying or selling gold guards you against scams.
4. Keep the Peace of Mind
The quality of gold you possess removes the uncertainty. You can believe what you have.
Gold Purity
Pure gold is rarely 100% pure. It contains some other metals to strengthen it. It measures purity in karats, (K).
24K: Pure gold Soft and Costly.
18K: 75% gold, 25% other metals. Great for jewellery.
14K: 58.3% gold. Strong and commonly used.
9K: 37.5% gold. Cheap and hard.
In New Zealand, you'll see that jewelry is usually labelled with its karat rating. However, marks can be deceptive. That's why testing is essential!
Read more: Are gold nuggets pure gold?
5 Tools You Can Use to Test Gold
1. Gold Testing Kit
A gold testing kit contains acids for various karats. It's inexpensive and convenient to use.
2. Magnet
Gold is not magnetic. A quick magnet test can eliminate fakes.
3. Scale
Weigh your jewelry. Pure gold is dense and heavier than fake materials.
4. Loupe or Magnifying Glass
Examine the jewelry for markings. A loupe helps you see small details.
5. Professional Tools
Electronic gold testers or X-ray fluorescence machines may be used by professionals.
Testing Gold at Home
Step 1: Visual Inspection
Examine your jewelry closely. Inspect for any stamps or hallmarks that indicate its gold purity.
Hallmarks: These are tiny marks stamped on the jewelry, such as "24K," "18K," "14K," or numerical values like "375," "585," or "750."
Manufacturer's Mark: Some may bear the brand or logo of the jeweler, which may help verify authenticity.
Wear and Discoloration: Look for areas where wear is most evident, such as the edges or clasps. If another metal peeks through, it could be gold-plated rather than solid gold.
Note that some of the older or handmade pieces do not have these marks but are still genuine gold.
Step 2: Magnet Test
Gold is not magnetic, so this is a quick way to rule out fake gold made with ferrous metals.
How to Perform
Use a strong magnet, such as a neodymium magnet, for the test.
Hold the magnet close to your jewelry.
Results
Not Magnetic: This suggests the piece might be gold.
Magnetic: The piece likely contains iron or nickel, indicating it is fake or gold-plated.
Tip: Some fake gold pieces are non-magnetic, so combine this test with others for accuracy.
Step 3: Acid Test
The acid test is one of the most precise methods for checking gold purity. A gold-testing kit, available online or in jewellery shops, makes this very convenient.
Materials Needed
Gold testing stone
Different acids for each karat type
Gloves and protective apparel
Procedure
Clear an area: Perform the experiment in a well-ventilated area and with a glove on to avoid any contact with the skin.
Scratch the Gold: Rub the jewelry against the testing stone to ensure an observable scratch.
Add Acid: Place a few drops of the acid onto the scratch. Use an acid that is specific to the karat level being tested.
Observe the Reaction: Pure gold won't react to the acid, while fake gold or lower-purity metals will dissolve or react.
Step 4: Water Density Test
Gold is an extremely dense metal with a 19.3 g/cm³ density. This property makes the water density test a great home experiment.
Materials Needed
A kitchen scale
A container of water
A ruler or graduated cylinder
Instructions
Weigh the Gold: Write down the weight of your jewelry in grams.
Measure Water Volume: Fill a container with a measured amount of water. Write down the starting volume.
Submerge the Gold: Place the gold piece in the water and measure the new volume.
Calculate Density
Use this formula:
Density = Weight of Gold / Water Displacement
Results
19.3 g/cm³: Pure gold.
Lower Density: Probably gold alloy or fake material.
Tip: Remove all non-gold parts, like stones or clasps, for accurate results.
Step 5: Ceramic Scratch Test
This test employs an unglazed ceramic plate to check for gold.
Steps
Locate an unglazed ceramic tile or plate.
Rub the gold piece on the ceramic surface.
Observe the colour of the streak.
Results
Gold Streak: Genuine gold leaves a yellow streak.
Black Streak: Indicates fake gold or other metals.
Note: Be careful, as this test may scratch your jewelry.
Step 6: Inspect Under a Magnifying Glass
Use a magnifying glass or loupe to closely look at the jewelry.
Edges and Corners: Check for uneven plating or wearing.
Fakes: There may be bubbles or finishes that appear rough.
Read more: What is scrap gold worth?
Combine Results
To get an accurate conclusion, use combinations of tests. No individual test is definitive. Example:
A non-magnetic result and a positive acid test indicate that it is likely actual gold.
Water density and eye inspection can confirm purity levels together.
If you still don't get a definitive answer, then proceed to professional testing for a clear answer.
Seek Professional Opinion
If not sure, then get a professional opinion. Jewelers and pawnshops usually offer free testing services.
What to Expect from Professionals
Positive results
Professional use of appropriate equipment
Professional judgment on what the value of the sample is
Who to find in NZ
Local Jewelers
Precious metals dealers
Gold Testing Services in NZ like TJ Gold
Read more: Is gold jewelry a good investment?
Final Thoughts
How to test gold jewelry in NZ? - Testing gold jewelry is important in New Zealand. Whether at home or with a professional, it safeguards your investment. Using simple tools and methods, you can confidently verify your gold's authenticity and value.
In case of uncertainty, consult an expert. Knowing your stuff can ensure buying and selling gold jewelry without fear!
