How can I tell if something is real gold?

Answer by  Qadoc (37)

An easy way to tell if something that looks like gold is real or not is to test its malleability. Gold is a soft metal and is easily bent and dented. That is why old westerns show someone biting into a gold coin to see if it is real. Though there are different karats, all gold is generally soft.

Answer by  boylen (168)

The easiest way to tell if something is real gold is to take it to your local jeweler. They will be able to tell you if your gold is real or fake and what karat weight it is. They may even offer to buy it from you!

Answer by  Roland27 (16334)

Most real gold items have a mark on them somewhere indicating the amount of gold. It may say something like "10 Karat" or just a "10". You are more likely to find these marks on rings, chains and bracelets. If you still aren't sure you can take your jewelery to a local jeweler to get it appraised.

Answer by  Spazman667 (259)

Well naturally gold is a very heavy object compared to other materials so that is a starting idea for the question but the best policy is to take it to a jewelry store and have them examine it.

Answer by  crane3 (90)

The most common way to tell real gold from fools gold is to use an acid test on a small piece.