How to check if gold is real: hallmarks and simple tests

By the Ezetrad team · Updated 13 November 2026 · 2 min read

Before paying for gold, or before selling it, you want to know it is what the seller says. Here is what actually helps.

1. Look for a hallmark

A hallmark is a stamp showing purity, usually as a number: 999 (24K), 916 (22K), 875 (21K) or 750 (18K). In India the BIS hallmark adds a unique 6-character HUID code you can check in the BIS Care app. In the UK an assay office mark is required by law. In Pakistan hallmarking is less common, so the receipt matters even more.

2. Get a detailed receipt

A proper receipt lists the weight, karat, gold rate used, making charges and any stones (whose weight should not be charged as gold). Keep it: it helps when you sell or exchange.

3. Simple home checks (limited)

• Magnet: gold is not magnetic. If a piece sticks strongly to a magnet it is not solid gold, but a non-magnetic piece can still be fake.
• Discolouration: green or black marks on skin, or worn spots showing a different metal, suggest plating.

Avoid scratch, bite or acid tests at home; they damage the piece and are unreliable.

4. Professional tests

An XRF (X-ray fluorescence) machine reads the metal content in seconds without damage; many jewellers and assay centres offer it for a small fee. A fire assay is the most accurate but destroys a small sample, so it is used for bars and large lots.

5. Check the price makes sense

If an offer is far below the gold value, be suspicious. Compare with today's gold rate and work out the gold content with our calculator.

This guide is educational and is not financial advice.

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