How Do I Verify Gold Purity Before Selling?

If you’re thinking about selling your gold, one of the most important steps is making sure you know exactly what it’s worth. The purity of your gold, measured in karats, plays a major role in determining how much you’ll get for it. At The Pawn & Jewelry Exchange, we help customers in Greensburg and nearby Hempfield Township understand how gold purity works and how to verify it before selling.

Here’s what you need to know to make sure you’re getting a fair and accurate offer.

Why Gold Purity Matters

Gold purity is measured in karats (K), with 24K representing 100% pure gold. The higher the karat, the greater the gold content, and the more valuable the item. Common purities include:

• 24K: Pure gold, typically used in coins or investment bars

• 22K: 91.6% pure, often used in high-end jewelry

• 18K: 75% pure, popular for fine jewelry

• 14K: 58.3% pure, durable and commonly used in everyday jewelry

• 10K: 41.7% pure, affordable and durable but lower in gold content

  
  

Understanding the purity helps you estimate your item’s true market value before visiting a pawn shop or gold buyer.

How to Check Gold Purity at Home

While professional testing is always recommended, there are a few simple methods you can use at home to get an idea of your gold’s purity.

1. Look for Hallmarks

Most genuine gold jewelry is stamped with a small marking that indicates its purity, such as “10K,” “14K,” “18K,” or “24K.” Sometimes, European markings like “585” (for 14K) or “750” (for 18K) are used instead.

Check near the clasp, inner band, or underside of your jewelry. Keep in mind that older or customized pieces may not have visible stamps.

2. Perform a Magnet Test

Gold is not magnetic, so if your item is attracted to a magnet, it likely contains other metals. However, this test isn’t foolproof; some alloys or gold-plated items may still pass, which is why it’s best used as a quick check, not a final verification.

3. Try the Float Test

Fill a cup with water and drop your gold item in. Real gold is dense and should sink immediately. Fake or hollow items may float or settle slowly. Again, this method provides a rough indication, not a definitive answer.

4. Use a Nitric Acid Test (With Caution)

Acid testing kits can reveal gold purity, but they require careful handling. A small scratch is made on the gold’s surface, and drops of acid are applied. The reaction (or lack of one) helps determine whether the gold is genuine and what karat level it is.

If you’re unsure how to perform this safely, it’s best to let a professional handle it.

Professional Gold Testing Methods

When you bring your gold to The Pawn & Jewelry Exchange, we use advanced, non-destructive testing methods to ensure accurate results without damaging your item.

Electronic Gold Testing

We use electronic testers to measure the electrical conductivity of your gold, providing quick and precise results for karat level.

X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) Testing

This advanced method determines metal composition using X-ray technology, giving exact percentages of gold and other alloys in your jewelry. It’s one of the most accurate and reliable testing methods available.

Acid Testing (Professional Application)

Our experts use controlled acid testing when needed for additional verification. Because it’s done carefully and precisely, there’s no risk to your item.

These professional tests ensure transparency and accuracy, so you always know exactly what you’re selling.

Why Work With a Licensed Pawn Shop

Choosing a licensed and reputable Greensburg pawn shop like The Pawn & Jewelry Exchange guarantees that your gold will be tested and appraised fairly. Licensed shops follow Pennsylvania state regulations and provide documentation for every transaction.

We make sure you understand each step, from testing to final offer, so you can make informed decisions about selling your gold.

Tips Before Selling Your Gold

If you’re planning to sell gold jewelry, coins, or scrap, here are a few tips to help you get the best value:

• Clean your items gently before bringing them in for testing.

• Separate items by karat if possible to make the evaluation easier.

• Bring any certifications or receipts if you have them.

• Check current gold market prices to understand what your items might be worth.

• Sell to a trusted shop that specializes in gold buying and appraisals.

  
  

At The Pawn & Jewelry Exchange, we use up-to-date gold market data and expert testing to make sure our offers are competitive and honest.

Get a Free Gold Evaluation Today

At The Pawn & Jewelry Exchange, we make selling gold easy, safe, and transparent. Whether you’re selling jewelry, coins, or scrap gold, our experts will test your items, explain the results, and provide a fair cash offer on the spot.

If you’re in Greensburg, Hempfield Township, or nearby areas and want to verify your gold purity before selling, visit us or call today. We’ll help you understand exactly what your gold is worth, with no pressure, no obligation, and no hidden fees. Contact The Pawn & Jewelry Exchange at (724) 836-7296 and sell your gold with confidence.