Gold & Silver Testing Guide – Hallmarks, Acid Testing, Fakes & Melt Value

Stop relying on appearance alone when checking gold and silver.



This practical beginner-friendly guide explains the basic methods used to investigate precious metals and recognise some of the warning signs associated with plated, filled and fake items.

Learn how several different tests can be combined to build a better picture of what you're examining.

Inside the guide:

• Gold and silver hallmarks explained
• Magnet testing and its limitations
• Touchstone and acid-testing principles
• Recognising plated and gold-filled items
• Common fake and scam warning signs
• Silver screening methods
• Weighing precious metals
• Calculating approximate gold melt value
• Specific-gravity testing explained
• Why no single test proves authenticity
• Chemical-testing safety

Test the metal — not the story.

Ideal as an introduction for collectors, resellers and anyone interested in learning the fundamentals of gold and silver testing.

Important: This is an educational guide. Precious-metal testing methods have limitations and chemical testing can be hazardous and destructive. Always follow the instructions and Safety Data Sheet supplied with your specific testing products. For valuable items or uncertain results, consider professional authentication.