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  1. Home

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  3. How to Check Gold Purity: A Complete Guide for Buyers

How to Check Gold Purity: A Complete Guide for Buyers

by Stephanie Kim ・ 03 Sep 2023 ・5 min read

Understanding gold purity, and how to actually verify it, is the difference between buying what you think you're buying and finding out later you didn't.

 

How is Gold Purity Measured?

 

Gold purity is measured in karats (K or KT), the proportion of gold in an alloy. Pure gold is 24K, at 99.9% gold. Other karats blend gold with additional metals for durability and to shift the color:

  • 24K: 99.9% pure gold
  • 18K: 75% pure gold, 25% alloy metals
  • 14K: 58.3% pure gold, 41.7% alloy metals
  • 10K: 41.7% pure gold, 58.3% alloy metals

For how each karat affects color and finish specifically, see Gold Purity & Gold Colors: 24K, 18K, 14K & 10K Gold Explained.

 

Check the Hallmark

 

A gold hallmark is a stamp indicating purity and often the manufacturer or country of origin: numeric values like "18K" or "750," alongside symbols identifying the maker. It's typically engraved on the piece itself or attached by tag.

 

If you can't find one, ask the retailer directly. A brand confident in its metal should be able to point to the mark without hesitation.

 

gold purity hallmark guide

Sterling silver carries its own version of this: see Silver Hallmarks & Stamps for how those markings work. If you're also weighing solid gold against plated, filled, or vermeil options, our breakdown of the differences covers durability and long-term value across each.

 

AURÉV Signature 18K Gold Pieces

Signature Curb and Paperclip Chain

Signature Curb and Paperclip Chain

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Interlocking Eternity Twist Ring

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Paperclip Chain Necklace

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Signature Hoops

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Professional Testing Methods

 

Determining purity precisely requires proper testing:

  • Acid testing: a small sample reacts to acids of varying strength; the reaction indicates purity.
  • X-ray fluorescence (XRF): non-destructive, fast, and precise; widely used for both jewelry and bullion.
  • Electronic testing: measures electrical conductivity against known standards for a quick reading.

These require precision equipment and should be left to professionals.

 

Check the Price Against Spot Gold

 

Gold's market price is public and updates daily. A piece's price should roughly track the spot price for its weight and purity, plus a reasonable craftsmanship margin. A price well below what the metal alone should cost is a signal worth questioning.

 

Get It in Writing

 

A proper receipt should state the fineness and weight of the gold, not just a description like "18K gold ring." If a dispute ever comes up over what you bought, this is your strongest evidence. For the wider question of trusting a brand generally, see how to know if a jewelry brand is legit and men's fine jewelry vs fast fashion.

 

How AURÉV Verifies Purity

AURÉV uses 18K solid gold and premium sterling silver, verified through XRF testing on select pieces, and free from nickel or brass. Every piece carries hallmark and purity markings on clasps, earring backs, or ring interiors.

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