As a subject matter expert in materials science with a focus on precious metals, I can provide you with several methods to determine if a metal is real gold. Here's how you can tell:


1. Visual Inspection: Real gold has a distinct yellow color that's difficult to replicate. However, this method is not foolproof as other metals can be gold-plated or painted.


2. Magnet Test: Gold is not magnetic. If a magnet attracts the metal, it's not gold.


3. Density Test: Gold is one of the densest elements, with a density of 19.3 g/cm³. You can measure the density by weighing the object and then calculating its volume when submerged in water.


4. Acid Test: This involves using a gold testing kit with different acids. Real gold will not react with these acids, while fake gold will.


5. Hallmark or Stamp: Genuine gold items often have a hallmark indicating their purity, such as 10K, 14K, 18K, 22K, or 24K.


6. Professional Appraisal: For the most accurate assessment, take the item to a professional jeweler or a gold assay service.

7.
Electronic Devices: Some devices can measure the electrical conductivity and other properties that are characteristic of gold.

8.
X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF): This is a non-destructive testing method that can identify the elemental composition of a metal.

Remember, while these methods can provide good indications, the only surefire way to determine the authenticity of gold is through professional testing.

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To perform this test to check if gold is real, make a light, tiny scratch on the item using a small nail file. Choose a spot that is not noticeable if possible. Use a dropper to apply a small drop of nitric acid to the scratch. If there is no reaction, then the piece is probably made from real gold.read more >>