How to distinguish gold from silver and imitations

Start with the description

Check the invoice, metal description, karat or fineness mark and whether a coating is declared. White gold and silver can look similar; colour, shine, smell or marks on skin do not reliably identify a metal.

Simple tests have limits

Non-attraction to a magnet does not prove gold. Plating, hollow construction and mounted stones complicate testing. Professional methods have different strengths and limitations, including whether they assess the surface or the interior.

Avoid damaging experiments

Do not bite, burn, scratch or apply household acids to jewellery. Ask a qualified jeweller or assay professional for a suitable examination, especially before buying an expensive piece or selling inherited jewellery.