Hallmark
Look for numbers like 375, 585, 750, 916 or markings like 14K, 18K. Markings like GP, GF, HGE or RGP indicate plating or gold-filled, not solid gold.
A missing hallmark does not rule it out, and an existing hallmark is no proof.
- GP — gold plated
- GF — gold filled
- HGE — hydro-gold electroplated
Home tests
Gold is not magnetic. If the jewelry is strongly attracted to a magnet, it likely has base metal in it. However, other non-magnetic metals exist, so the test only filters.
Wear in friction areas that reveals a different color underneath is a sign of plating. Do not scratch and do not use acids at home.
Professional test
In a professional test, a touchstone and acids of various concentrations are used, or analytical equipment. The test determines the actual purity and identifies plating.
This is the stage where the proposal is determined.
Plating, filling, and hollow gold
Gold plated jewellery is a base metal with a very thin layer of gold. Gold filled is a thicker layer that is mechanically soldered, but still most of the weight is not gold. In both cases, the gold value is very small relative to the weight.
Hollow gold is real gold, but thin and empty inside. It looks large and weighs little. Here there is no problem of reliability but of expectations: the value is determined by the weight.
What not to do at home
Do not dip jewellery in acid, do not scratch it on a tile, and do not try to heat it. Such actions may ruin an item with sentimental or collectible value, and in some cases, can also be dangerous.
If in doubt, simply mark the item as "unknown" and bring it for inspection along with the rest.
Before reaching out
Photograph the hallmarks and worn areas. If you have any doubt about an item, mention it. If you are in Ofakim, Beer Sheva, Netivot, or anywhere else — let us know where you are contacting us from, and we will check together if and how an inspection can be arranged. We do not guarantee a specific service area in advance.
The calculator will help understand the magnitude before the test.