How can you tell if gold is real?
Direct Answer: The most reliable way to verify real gold is to look for a hallmark stamp (10K, 14K, 18K, 585, 750) and have it tested by a professional jeweler using an acid test or XRF spectrometer.
- Hallmark stamp: Look for karat markings (10K, 14K, 18K) or millesimal fineness (417, 585, 750) stamped on the piece
- Acid test: A jeweler applies acid to a small scratch — real gold does not react
- XRF spectrometer: Non-destructive professional test that identifies metal composition precisely
- Magnet test: Real gold is not magnetic — if it sticks to a magnet, it is not solid gold
At-home tests are indicative but not definitive. For certainty, have the piece tested by a certified jeweler.
What are the signs of fake gold?
Direct Answer: Fake gold — or gold-plated base metal — shows discoloration, green skin staining, magnetic attraction, and visible base metal at wear points. Real solid gold shows none of these signs.
- Discoloration: Color change at wear points (edges, clasps, inner bands) indicates plating wearing off
- Green skin staining: Caused by copper in base metals reacting with skin moisture — solid gold does not cause this
- Magnetic attraction: Real gold is not magnetic — attraction to a magnet indicates base metal
- No hallmark: Legitimate solid gold jewelry always carries a karat stamp
See our solid gold vs. gold-plated guide →
Does real gold change color?
Direct Answer: No — solid gold never changes color. Color change is always a sign of plating wearing off to reveal the base metal beneath, not a property of solid gold.
- Solid 14K and 18K gold maintains its color permanently — no fading, no discoloration
- Gold-plated jewelry changes color as the thin gold layer wears through to the base metal
- If your jewelry is changing color, it is gold-plated, not solid gold
- Solid gold can be professionally polished to restore its original surface shine
Related: Complete Gold Jewelry Guide → | Gold Jewelry FAQ → | Gold Basics FAQ → | Buying Decisions FAQ →