How the Quality of Precious Metals Are Tested
Precious metals testing can help you know the fineness of the alloy used, and if a piece of jewelry is plated or solid. Testing is an essential component of jewelry appraisal and pricing. To an average consumer, a 50% alloy of copper and silver looks like silver. Without standards and testing protocols, so many people would get conned. Here is a list of main precious metals testing types
Color testing
If you observe the color of your jewelry, you will end up learning things that may direct to other tests to prove if the material is original. You can begin by looking if the color distribution is even or it is patchy. Yellow gold should not have a brassy tone. White gold has a slightly yellowish. Platinum does not tarnish, whereas silver may tarnish.
Heft test
A heft test is carried out by carefully tossing or bouncing the material on your hand. If it is weighty, then it is likely to be made out of a precious metal. If the object is hollow, then carrying out this test may be difficult.
Magnetism test
this test is done by holding a magnet to the material and check if there is attraction. It would help if you had a strong magnet to have credible results. Most platinum alloys and gold are not magnetic, but plated objects with a foundation of stainless steel will be.
Electronic testers
You can find electronic testers in most jewelry stores. They can be accurate within two karats. However, some electronic testers may leave marks on objects with low karats.
Float test
It would be best if you had a cup of water to carry out this test. Original gold will sink to the bottom of any liquid. Fake gold will float or hovers slightly above the bottom of the container. Furthermore, genuine gold will not rust.
Some metal consumers invest in complicated testing techniques to identify precious metals. If the tips above don’t work well for you, you can consult a professional metal specialist.
