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If you’ve ever wondered whether the gold jewellery you own is as pure as claimed — especially older pieces without a BIS hallmark, or jewellery received as a gift — there are several ways to check. Some methods are simple enough to try at home with basic materials; others require a professional test. Here’s what each method can and can’t tell you.
Start with the hallmark
Look closely at the jewellery for a stamped number — 999, 916, 750, 585 or similar. On BIS-certified jewellery sold in India since 2021, it’s accompanied by a 6-digit HUID code. Verify the HUID on the BIS Care app — that’s the most authoritative confirmation without a lab test. See our hallmark numbers guide and HUID guide.
At-home methods
1. The magnet test
Hold a strong magnet near the jewellery. Pure gold and gold alloys are not magnetic. If the piece is strongly attracted to the magnet, it’s likely plated metal or a base metal alloy. This eliminates obvious fakes but doesn’t confirm gold — many non-gold metals are also non-magnetic.
2. The skin test
Wear the jewellery against your skin for a few hours. Real gold doesn’t leave green, black or blue marks. If your skin discolours where the jewellery touches, the piece contains significant copper or base metals.
3. The float test
Drop the jewellery into a glass of water. Gold is very dense and sinks immediately. If the piece floats or hovers, it’s likely not solid gold. This doesn’t distinguish purity levels — it identifies obvious fakes only.
4. The vinegar test
Apply a few drops of white vinegar. Real gold doesn’t react — no colour change or bubbling. Base metals may darken. This is a rough indicator, not a purity test.
Why at-home tests are limited
All the above methods can identify obvious fakes but cannot reliably tell you the difference between 22K and 18K gold. For any financial decision — selling, pledging for a loan, or verifying a purchase — a professional test is required.
Professional tests
Acid test
A small scratch is made on the piece and nitric acid is applied. Reasonably accurate, available at local goldsmiths for ₹50–₹100. Slightly scratches the jewellery.
XRF machine (most accurate)
XRF (X-ray fluorescence) gives a precise purity reading in minutes without touching the jewellery. Available at professional gold buyers, Muthoot Gold Point and large jewellers — often for free if you’re considering selling.
Browse gold testing and cleaning kits
Browse gold jewellery accessories on Amazon India — including testing kits and cleaning solutions. Also see global options.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I check if my gold is real at home?
Try the magnet test (gold is not magnetic), the float test (gold sinks immediately) and the skin test (no green or black marks). These identify obvious fakes. For any financial purpose, get a professional acid test or XRF test.
What is the most accurate way to check gold purity in India?
XRF machine testing by a licensed gold buyer or BIS assay centre — non-destructive, precise, and quick. Verifying the BIS hallmark + HUID on the BIS Care app is the fastest check for recently purchased hallmarked jewellery.
The bottom line
At-home tests identify obvious fakes. For any financial decision, use an XRF test at a professional gold buyer or BIS assay centre. For recently purchased hallmarked jewellery, HUID verification on the BIS Care app is your fastest and most reliable tool.