What happens when the glimmer of gold turns out to be nothing more than a counterfeit? Naturally, the consequences of falling prey to such deception can be financially devastating.
But fear not! Amidst a sea of imitations, there are ways to spot the real deal! Here are some methods to distinguish authentic gold from counterfeit.
1. Look for Hallmarks
Genuine golds are stamped with a hallmarkΒ indicating that they are tested and certified of its stated purity and quality.
Additionally, reputable manufacturers imprint their logo or trademark on their jewellery pieces along with an official hallmark, serving as a testament to their authenticity and craftsmanship.
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2. Perform A Magnet Test
Pure gold is non-magnetic. By using neodymium magnets that are significantly stronger than your regular fridge magnets, it can produce reliable results to determine its authenticity. If the piece of gold jewellery attracts the magnet, it is either not genuine gold or is of sub-par purity.
However, it is best to seek a professional to do the testing for you. Visit any of our outlets for our friendly staff to assist you.Β
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3. Conduct A Chemical Test
Apply a small amount of nitric acid in a controlled environment, to scratch on the metal's surface. If there is no discoloration or reaction, it is likely to be genuine gold.
(DO NOT try this at home as it involves chemicals that are high in acidity - please seek a professional jeweller or head to any of our outlets)
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4. Carry Out A Ceramic Scratch Test
Use an unglazed ceramic plate or tile, and scrape the gold across its surface. Genuine gold will leave a mark, while fake gold will leave a black trail.
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5. Seek A Professional Jeweller
The most reliable way is to consult a professional jeweller. They have the expertise and tools to accurately determine the authenticity of gold.
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With these methods, you can now confidently distinguish genuine gold from counterfeit when purchasing gold jewellery, but we highly advise you to seek a professional jeweller to assist. Always opt for reputable brands to minimise the risk of counterfeit items.
Here at Chip Lee Jewellery, we offer a wide selection of gold jewellery pieces including 916 Gold and 999 Gold, that are officially checked and certified by the Singapore Assay Office (SAO) with the SAO Hallmark stamp. This ensures our customers can purchase with peace of mind, knowing they are acquiring authentic gold jewellery of the highest quality.