Gold testing questions, answered

Any single method can be misled. Acid reads only the surface, magnets miss non-ferrous fakes, and weight alone cannot separate gold from tungsten. Two independent methods agreeing is the standard to aim for.

Ask before you test. Acid marks the piece, so a seller must consent. Electronic and density checks are non-destructive and rarely refused by an honest seller.

Testing acids degrade. Keep them capped, cool and out of sunlight, and replace them yearly or whenever readings drift on a known reference sample.

Plated is a microns-thin layer; gold-filled is a bonded layer that is far thicker and can pass a surface acid test. Gold-filled is the reason an electronic tester matters.

For insurance, probate or a high-value single piece, yes. Home testing tells you the metal; an appraisal documents value with authority a buyer will accept.

No. We publish educational material about verifying precious metals. Some links on this site are paid placements.