How pawn shops spot plated metal — quick myths and facts

That shiny necklace might be a bargain or a fake. You need to know which before you pay.

Myth vs Fact: Hallmarks tell the whole story

Myth: If a piece has a stamp like 10K or 14K it's definitely solid gold.

Fact: Stamps are a good sign but not proof. Sellers can stamp plated items or rub off real marks. A stamp tells you to test more, not to stop testing.

Myth vs Fact: The color test is enough

Myth: Real gold keeps the same colour everywhere, so any colour change means plated metal.

Fact: Colour clues help but can mislead. Bright yellow can be gold, but some gold-filled or heavy plated pieces look very similar. Wear, sweat and cleaners change look too. Use colour as one clue among several.

Myth vs Fact: Weight and sound are foolproof

Myth: Solid gold feels heavy and makes a dull sound if tapped; plated items are lighter and ring more.

Fact: Weight and sound can guide you, but they are not absolute. Alloys and dense non-gold cores can mimic weight. A small earring or thin chain won’t give you a clear audio cue. Treat these tests as rough, not definitive.

Myth vs Fact: Acid tests always save you

Myth: An acid test will instantly tell if a piece is plated or real.

Fact: Acid tests are useful but require care. They can damage delicate items and give false results on some gold alloys. Pawn shops use acids alongside other tools and experience. If you’re not trained, avoid destroying the finish.

Micro-moment

You meet a seller at a market and examine a bracelet under a lamp. You rub a tiny, hidden spot with a coin and watch for colour change. Then you ask for the hallmark and a short story of where it came from.

Fast check before you pay

• Look for clear hallmarks and check they match the style and age of the piece

• Inspect edges, clasps and backs for colour change or thin plating lines

• Hold the item on a magnet; strong magnets pull non-gold metals but not gold

• Compare weight to a similar known-gold item of the same size

• If in doubt, ask for a professional assay or a nitric acid test from a pro

When to get professional testing

If the item is costly, sentimental, or you plan to resell it, pay for a proper test. Professionals can do an XRF scan (x-ray fluorescence) that reads metal content without harm. A bench jeweller can also test in small, safe spots. Paying a small fee can save a lot of hassle.

Red flags that scream "plated"

Thin edges that show a different metal beneath are obvious. Flaking, green skin stains on the wearer, or a very bright yellow finish on cheap fittings are also signs. If the seller avoids close photos or refuses a simple magnet check, be suspicious.

Bottom line: combine quick checks and expert help

No single home test is perfect. Use hallmarks, colour, magnet and weight together. If the piece matters, invest in professional testing. That way we both avoid bad buys and unfair offers.

Stones can add value, but only when they’re verified — don’t let "maybe" inflate the number.

Today’s takeaway: Trust multiple small checks, and get a pro test for anything worth real money.