How to identify gold?

Real golden jewelry usually has a hallmark, that is a sign printed on its surface that indicates the number of gold carats. The most common are the eagle or owl’s head for 18-carat gold, a shell for 14-carat and clover for 9-carat gold.The hallmark tells us the amount of gold in the jewel, which can be expressed in thousandths (from 1 to 999, the most common being 750 thousandth gold) or in carats (from 9k to 24k). If you do not find a hallmark, it is likely that your gold bracelet, or jewelry, is not authentic gold. Note that for antique jewelry or jewelry that are worn very often, it may be that the hallmark is no longer visible. On the other hand, although the hallmark is mandatory in France, this is not the case in all countries.

Hallmark
Carats	24K	18K	14K	9K
Content in thousandths	1000	750	585	375
% Gold Titration	100	75	58,5	37,5

So, how can you identify a jewel made up of pure gold? Other methods are possible.
- Identify it by color: this consist of checking if there is a difference in color between the center of the ring and its edges, which are more exposed to friction. If so, it is possible that your ring is gold plated and not pure gold.
- Identify it using a magnet: this is a fairly simple method. All you need to do is find a pretty powerful magnet like those used for purse closures. Gold being a metal that does not react to magnetic fields, if your jewelry is attracted to the magnet, then it is not gold.
- Identify it using ceramics: this is a method to apply with caution. Rub your jewel against a bathroom tile or unglazed ceramic plate (do not use valuable items that could get bad). If it leaves a golden trail, it is a jewel in gold, if the trail is black it is a fake.
- Have the jewelry authenticated. Finally, you can seek the expertise of a jeweler who will undoubtedly identify the precious metal without doubt.