Authentic gold has a shine that never fades. However, the market is flooded with imitations that can deceive an untrained eye. If you want to make sure the jewelry you wear or gift is genuine, this guide will help you easily spot the differences between real gold and fakes.

Look for the hallmark – the first sign of authenticity

One of the simplest and most reliable ways to check if a piece of jewelry is made of genuine gold is to look for the hallmark. All gold jewelry legally sold in Romania and other EU countries must bear an official hallmark, applied by the manufacturer or the consumer protection authority. You can find more details in the article: About Gold or Platinum Jewelry.

What do the hallmarks mean?

585 = 14K gold (contains 58.5% pure gold)

750 = 18K gold (contains 75% pure gold)

916 = 22K gold

999 = pure gold (24K)

Warning! Gold-plated jewelry may look similar, but it will not have such a hallmark or may have a fake one, easily identified by an authorized jeweler.

What does gold-plated mean?

Gold-plated jewelry is made of a base metal – usually copper, brass, or steel – coated with an extremely thin layer of gold through various processes (electroplating, galvanic plating, etc.).

This layer may be just a few microns thick or even thinner. Over time, it can wear off, especially in contact areas, causing the jewelry to lose its original appearance. This is why gold-plated jewelry does not have the value or durability of genuine gold.

Real gold vs. gold-plated – essential differences

Real gold is durable, valuable, and retains its natural color over the years.

Gold-plated items can scratch, tarnish, oxidize, or corrode over time.

Simple test: If the jewelry peels, tarnishes, or changes color after a few wears, it is most likely plated, not genuine.

The weight factor – gold is heavy

Gold has a higher density than common metals. A genuine gold piece will be heavier than a fake of the same size.

If you have a precision scale or another similar gold piece for comparison, you will notice the weight difference.

Magnet test – quick home check

Pure gold is not magnetic. If your jewelry is attracted to a strong magnet, it contains other metals. While not a definitive test, it can be a useful clue alongside other methods.

Acid test or touchstone test

Authorized jewelers use nitric acid or a touchstone to determine gold purity. These methods involve rubbing the jewelry on a special surface and applying a solution that reacts differently depending on the alloy.

Warning! Do not try these tests at home – the substances can be dangerous.

Overall appearance – gold has a unique glow

Real gold has a warm, natural, slightly matte, and uniform shade. Fake or plated jewelry may:

  • have an intense, artificial shine
  • tarnish or discolor
  • show imperfections at joints or edges

Get a professional appraisal

If in doubt, the safest choice is to go to an authorized jeweler or accredited pawn shop. They can verify authenticity using professional tools (XRF spectrometer, chemical test, jeweler’s loupe).

Conclusion: choose authenticity that lasts

When you choose jewelry, you choose more than an object – you choose value, emotion, and durability. A genuine gold piece is an investment in beauty that never fades and elegance that never goes out of style.

At Valmand, every piece is made from certified authentic gold, hallmarked, and carefully delivered – so you wear not just an accessory, but a promise of true refinement.