20 February

How to recognize if gold is 14 Carat?

The recognition of a real 14K gold is important, especially when buying jewelry. Here the main ways to verify its authenticity:

1. Check marking (PROBATION)

✅ Printing "585" or "14K" - All 14K gold jewelry should have a marking, usually on the inside of the rings or clasp of necklaces and bracelets.

📌 Other designations:

"14KP" - carat gold (plated), means pure 14K.
"GF" (gold filled) or "GP" (gold plated) - means that the jewel is gold plated and not solid gold.

2. Magnet test

✅ Gold is not magnetic - Real 14K gold is not attracted by a magnet. If the jewelry sticks to a magnet, it probably contains other metals or is simply gold plated.

3. Ceramic tile test

✅ Carefully wipe the jewel onto an unpainted ceramic tile.

Real gold will leave yellow trace.
Fake gold or gilt will leave grey or black trace.

4. Test with vinegar or lemon

✅ Drop a few drops of vinegar or lemon juice on the jewel.

The real gold will not change colour.
The fake gold will darken or it will change color.

5. KISSELINE TEST (Nitrate test)

📌 A professional method used by jewelers:
✅ Drip special acids on gold - 14K acid should not corrode it.

6. Test by weighing and density

✅ Gold is a heavy metal - solid gold is significantly heavier than gold plated jewellery of the same size.
✅ 14K gold has a density of about 12.9-14.6 g/cm³ - can be measured with water.