Gold has always held emotional and financial value in Indian households. It is not just jewellery but a symbol of security, tradition, and long-term investment. Whether you inherit gold or buy it yourself, making sure it is genuine is extremely important. With the rise of gold-plated ornaments and counterfeit pieces in the market, knowing how to check gold authenticity at home can help you avoid losses.
Although professional testing at certified jewellery stores is the most reliable option, there are a few simple home methods that can give you a basic idea about whether your gold is real or fake.
Why Checking Gold Authenticity Matters
Gold is often purchased during weddings, festivals, and as a savings asset. Even a small mistake in identifying fake gold can lead to significant financial loss. Home tests cannot guarantee 100 percent purity, but they can help you spot obvious signs of imitation before you make a purchase or sale.
1. Check the BIS Hallmark
In India, genuine gold jewellery usually carries a BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) hallmark. This tiny stamp indicates that the gold meets official purity standards.
Look for:
- The BIS logo
- The purity mark (such as 22K or 916)
- The jeweller’s identification mark
Use a magnifying glass and good lighting to inspect the hallmark clearly. Absence of a hallmark does not always mean the gold is fake, but its presence adds trust.
2. Try the Magnet Test
Gold is not magnetic. If your jewellery gets attracted to a magnet, it likely contains other metals.
How to test:
Hold a small household magnet close to the gold item.
If it sticks strongly, it is probably not pure gold.
If there is no reaction, it may be real, but further testing is still needed.
3. Perform the Water Test
Gold is a dense metal and sinks quickly in water.
Steps:
Fill a bowl with water.
Drop the gold item into the bowl.
Real gold will sink immediately to the bottom.
If it floats or takes time to settle, it could be gold-plated or made from lighter metals. This test alone is not conclusive but can support other results.
4. Observe Skin Reactions
Pure gold does not react with your skin.
Wear the jewellery for a few hours and check for:
- Green marks
- Black stains
- Skin irritation
Such reactions usually indicate the presence of other metals mixed with the gold.
5. Use the Ceramic Plate Test
An unglazed ceramic surface can help you identify fake gold.
Gently rub the gold item on an unglazed ceramic tile.
If it leaves a golden-yellow streak, it may be real gold.
A black or dark streak usually suggests the item is not genuine.
Be careful not to scratch delicate jewellery while performing this test.
6. Try the Vinegar Test
Gold does not react to vinegar.
Place a few drops of white vinegar on the jewellery or soak it for 10 to 15 seconds.
If the metal changes colour or becomes dull, it is likely not pure gold.
If there is no change, the piece may be genuine.
7. Use the Make-Up Test
This is a simple trick using liquid foundation.
Apply liquid foundation on your skin and let it dry.
Rub the gold item lightly over the area.
If it leaves a black mark, the jewellery may not be real gold.
Final Advice
These home tests can give you a basic idea about gold authenticity, but they are not a substitute for professional testing. If you are making a large purchase, planning to sell gold, or want complete peace of mind, always consult a BIS-certified jeweller or use professional gold testing machines.
