How to Check Gold Purity at Home: 5 Methods Explained

How to Check Gold Purity at Home: 5 Methods Explained

Before selling gold, many people want to estimate their gold‘s purity at home before visiting a buyer. Several methods exist – from simple magnet tests to density calculations. Each has different accuracy levels and limitations.

This guide covers all 5 home testing methods, what they can and cannot tell you, and why the XRF machine test at a reputable gold buyer remains the only definitive answer.

At a Glance

Method 1: Check the BIS Hallmark (Most Reliable Home Method)

Look for the BIS hallmark stamped on your jewellery. Since 2021, all gold sold in India must carry a 6-digit HUID (Hallmark Unique ID). The hallmark includes the purity code: 999 = 24K, 916 = 22K, 750 = 18K, 585 = 14K.You can verify the HUID on the BIS Care mobile app (available on Android and iOS). This is the most reliable home check – though it applies only to hallmarked jewellery bought after 2021.

Method 2: Magnet Test

Hold a strong magnet near your gold. Pure gold is not magnetic – it will not be attracted to the magnet. If your jewellery is attracted to the magnet, it likely contains iron or steel and is not solid gold.Important limitation: this test only tells you if something is definitely NOT gold. It cannot distinguish between 24K, 22K and 18K. Brass, copper and silver are also non-magnetic but are not gold.

Method 3: Float/Density Test

Gold is very dense (19.3 g/cm³). Drop your piece into a glass of water. Real gold should sink immediately. Fake gold (plated brass or hollow pieces) may float or sink slowly.Limitation: most gold jewellery has some hollow sections or alloys that can affect the result. This test is a rough indicator, not a reliable purity test.

Method 4: Acid Test (Home Kit)

Gold acid test kits are available online (typically ₹200–500). You make a small scratch on a touchstone, rub the gold on it, and apply acid. The colour reaction indicates approximate karat range.Accuracy: ±2–3K (approximate range, not exact). The acid test also scratches the touchstone and can slightly damage the piece surface. Home kits are less accurate than professional acid testing at a lab.

Method 5: Electronic Gold Tester

Handheld electronic gold testers (available online, ₹1,500–5,000) apply a small electrical signal to the piece and estimate purity based on conductivity. They are quick (10–20 seconds) but accuracy is limited – typically ±3–5K.They can also give false readings on plated gold, heavily alloyed pieces and soldered sections.

Why Home Tests Are Not Enough for Resale

The Only Definitive Answer: XRF at Attica Gold

XRF (X-ray fluorescence) testing at an Attica Gold branch gives the exact elemental composition of your gold in 30–60 seconds – accurate to ±0.1%. It is free, non-destructive and definitive.After any home estimate, always confirm with XRF before selling. The difference between 22K (91.6%) and 20K (83.3%) is significant: on a 20g piece, that gap is worth over ₹14,000.

Why Choose Attica Gold Company

Attica Gold Company is ISO 9001:2015 certified with 200+ branches across Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Pondicherry. Your wait is over.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I check if my gold is 22K or 18K at home?

The most reliable home check is the BIS hallmark: look for 916 (22K) or 750 (18K) stamped on the piece. For definitive confirmation, visit any Attica Gold branch for free XRF testing.

Does a magnet test tell me the karat of my gold?

No. The magnet test only tells you if something is NOT gold (if it attracts a magnet). It cannot distinguish between 24K, 22K and 18K.

Can I use the BIS Care app to check my gold?

Yes. If your gold has a 6-digit HUID hallmark, you can verify purity on the BIS Care app. This applies to hallmarked jewellery bought in India after 2021.

Is the acid test accurate?

The acid test gives an approximate range (±2–3K), not an exact reading. It is better than nothing but not reliable enough for resale pricing.

How accurate is a home electronic gold tester?

Typically ±3–5K accurate. Better than a magnet test but less reliable than XRF. Not recommended for resale price estimation.

Is XRF testing free at Attica Gold?

Yes. XRF testing is free at all Attica Gold branches – no charge.

What if my gold has no hallmark?

No hallmark is fine. XRF testing determines exact purity regardless. Bring your piece to any Attica Gold branch.