How to Spot Fake Gold: Tips for Avoiding Scams From Our Scottish Gold Dealers
Gold has been a symbol of wealth and security for centuries, but with its popularity comes the risk of counterfeit pieces. Whether you’re buying gold jewellery, coins, or bullion, it’s crucial to know how to identify genuine gold to protect yourself from scams.
At Pharaohs Bullion, we pride ourselves on offering only authentic, high-quality gold in Motherwell and Edinburgh. In this guide, we’ll share expert tips to help you spot fake gold and make informed purchasing decisions.
Why Fake Gold is a Growing Concern
Counterfeit gold is more common than many people think, with scammers using sophisticated methods to deceive buyers. Fake gold can come in the form of:
Gold-plated jewellery
A thin layer of gold over a base metal like copper or brass.
Gold-filled pieces
A thicker layer of gold bonded to another metal but still not solid gold.
Tungsten-filled bars
Some counterfeiters use tungsten, which has a similar density to gold, to make fake gold bars.
Mislabeled alloys
Some metals, like brass or bronze, can resemble gold but have no real gold content.
Knowing how to distinguish real gold from imitations can save you from financial loss and disappointment.
How to Test for Real Gold
Here are some tried-and-tested methods to verify if your gold is genuine:
1. The Hallmark Test
Hallmarks are official stamps indicating the gold’s purity. In the UK, all gold above 1 gram must be hallmarked by an Assay Office. Look for:
375 (9ct gold)
585 (14ct gold)
750 (18ct gold)
916 (22ct gold)
999 (24ct gold, pure gold)
A missing or unclear hallmark could indicate fake gold. However, older or foreign jewellery may not always have a hallmark, so additional testing is recommended.
2. The Magnet Test
Gold is not magnetic, so if your item sticks to a magnet, it is likely not real gold. However, some counterfeiters use non-magnetic metals, so this test alone isn’t foolproof.
3. The Acid Test
Using nitric acid, jewellers can determine gold purity. Real gold does not react, but base metals will change colour or dissolve. This test should be done by a professional to avoid damaging your jewellery.
4. The Float Test
Drop your gold into a glass of water:
Real gold is dense and will sink immediately.
Fake gold or gold-plated items may float or hover due to their lighter weight.
5. The Ceramic Scratch Test
- Gently rub the gold item on an unglazed ceramic plate:
- Real gold leaves a gold streak.
- Fake gold leaves a black or grey streak.
Be cautious, as this test may slightly scratch the item.
6. The Sound Test (Ping Test)
Gold has a distinct high-pitched ringing sound when tapped against another metal. Fake gold produces a duller sound. This method is often used for testing gold coins.
7. Professional Testing
For complete peace of mind, visit our trusted gold dealer in Motherwell or Edinburgh, where our experts use electronic gold testers and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) machines to verify authenticity.
Common Red Flags When Buying Gold
To avoid scams, watch out for these warning signs:
🔴 Suspiciously Low Prices – If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Real gold has a high market value.
🔴 No Hallmarks or Certification – Always buy from a reputable seller who provides proof of authenticity.
🔴 Lack of Documentation – Legitimate gold sellers should provide receipts, certificates, or assay reports.
🔴 Unknown or Unverified Sellers – Be cautious when buying from online marketplaces or individuals without reviews or accreditation.
Where to Buy Genuine Gold in Motherwell & Edinburgh
If you’re looking for authentic gold jewellery, coins, or bullion, Pharaohs Bullion is your trusted local expert. We guarantee:
Fully Hallmarked Gold – All our gold meets UK hallmarking standards.
Expert Verification – Our team uses advanced testing methods to ensure authenticity.
Transparent Pricing – Competitive rates based on live gold market prices.
Buy & Sell Services – We buy gold at fair market prices, ensuring you get the best value.
Whether you’re investing in gold or searching for the perfect piece of jewellery, we are here to help.
Speak to Our Scottish Gold Dealers Today
Fake gold scams can be costly, but with the right knowledge, you can confidently identify genuine gold. By checking hallmarks, conducting simple tests, and purchasing from trusted dealers like Pharaohs Bullion, you can ensure your investment is safe.
Need professional gold authentication? Visit Pharaohs Bullion gold experts in Motherwell or Edinburgh today!