How to Check Gold Purity at Home: Simple & Trusted Methods

Gold jewellery is a valuable investment, and ensuring its purity is extremely important. While laboratory testing gives accurate results, there are several simple methods to check gold purity at home that can help you identify genuine gold jewellery.

1. Check the BIS Hallmark

The BIS Hallmark is the most trusted indicator of gold purity in India.

A BIS hallmarked gold jewellery piece includes:

BIS logo

Purity mark (22K / 916 or 18K / 750)

Jeweller’s identification mark

Year of hallmarking

If your jewellery has these markings, it is certified for purity.

2. Magnet Test – Quick Gold Purity Check

Gold is not magnetic.

How to do it:

Bring a strong magnet close to the jewellery

If it sticks, the jewellery is likely not pure gold

⚠️ Note: This test only detects fake metals, not purity percentage.

3. Water Float Test

Pure gold is dense and sinks quickly.

Steps:

Drop the jewellery into a bowl of water

Real gold sinks immediately

Fake gold may float or move slowly

4. Skin Test (Colour Change Test)

Wear the jewellery for a few hours.

If it leaves green or black marks, it may contain other metals

Pure gold does not react with skin

5. Ceramic Plate Test

Rub the jewellery gently on an unglazed ceramic plate.

Gold streak → likely real gold

Black or grey streak → fake or plated jewellery

⚠️ Use this test carefully to avoid scratches.

6. Understanding Gold Purity Marks

Common gold purity stamps:

916 → 22K gold

750 → 18K gold

585 → 14K gold

These numbers indicate gold purity percentage.

7. When to Visit a Jeweller

Home tests are helpful but not 100% accurate. For complete assurance:

Visit a BIS-certified jeweller

Use XRF gold testing (non-damaging)

Get a purity certificate

Conclusion

Knowing how to check gold purity at home helps you avoid fraud and make confident jewellery purchases. While basic tests offer quick insights, always rely on BIS hallmarked gold jewellery for guaranteed purity.

At Manha Jewels, every piece is BIS certified, ensuring purity, trust, and timeless beauty.