Do you want to know how to spot real gold from fake? Gold is the most important precious metal on Earth prized due its certain unique properties. Due to its valuable nature, a number of rogue gold traders are out there who try to sell counterfeited gold to the public. It is extremely important that you buy gold from reliable gold traders. However, even then you should know for yourself the techniques to differentiate real gold from fake.
Detecting fake gold bars allow you to invest in the real deal. Here we present some of the common gold testing methods you can perform yourself to identify real gold from fake.
1. Look for Visual Cues When Gold Testing
Before buying gold, you should inspect the gold visually through magnifying glass in order to determine its authenticity. Check for discoloration around the edges and in areas that face constant friction. Fake gold wears away with time and shows different metal beneath the surface.
2. Testing Gold with Nitric Acid
Nitric acid test is a reliable technique to gauge the authenticity of gold jewelry. The acid solution comes in 9kt, 14kt, 18kt, and 22kt according to the karat of gold jewelry you are appraising.
To perform this test, scratch a small inconspicuous area of gold with a nail file. Now using a dropper, apply a small amount of nitric acid over the area. If there is no reaction, it is probably real gold. On the other hand, if the gold turns milky or discolors than it could be counterfeit.
3. Touch Stone Testing
Touch Stone Testing is similar to nitric acid test with the difference that here you first rub the gold with a small touch stone, and then apply a drop of acid to the stone. If the mark on touchstone remains the same color, then the gold is real otherwise it is fake.
4. Ultrasonic Technology
Ultrasonic test is a reliable test to detect fake gold including tungsten-filled gold bars. The test sends an ultra sonic pulse through the gold bar to detect any anomaly with the gold. The ultrasonic equipment will show whether the gold bar bullion or coin is really made of gold or is a counterfeit. The price of the equipment runs in thousands of dollars, but it is a foolproof way to ensure that you are getting the real gold.
