Pawn shops test gold using a combination of methods, including visual inspection, magnet testing, acid testing, and electronic testing (XRF analysis). These methods help determine whether an item is genuine gold and identify its karat value, such as 10k, 14k, 18k, or 24k. Reputable shops like Empire Loan combine several of these techniques to ensure accurate, fair offers for customers. Continue reading below to learn more about the different methods for gold testing, or get in touch with our team at Empire Loan today to sell or pawn jewelry in New England!
What Methods Do Pawn Shops Use to Test Gold?
Pawn shops typically rely on a mix of the following methods, often using more than one for accuracy:
Visual Inspection
The first step in any gold test is a close visual inspection. Experienced pawnbrokers look for hallmark stamps, which are small engravings indicating karat value (such as “14K” or “585,” a numerical stamp representing 58.5% purity). They’ll also check for signs of wear, discoloration, or plating that may indicate the item isn’t solid gold.
While hallmarks provide a useful starting point, they aren’t foolproof. Stamps can be forged or worn away over time, which is why visual inspection alone is never used to make a final determination.
Magnet Testing
Gold is not magnetic, so a simple magnet test can quickly rule out certain fakes. If a piece of “gold” jewelry sticks strongly to a magnet, it’s a sign that the item contains iron or steel and likely isn’t genuine gold.
That said, this test has limitations. Some counterfeit items use non-magnetic metals like brass, so a magnet test is typically just an initial screening step rather than a definitive verification method.
Acid Testing
Acid testing is one of the most common and reliable methods used in pawn shops. Here’s how it works:
- The pawnbroker makes a small scratch on the gold item or uses a separate testing stone.
- A drop of nitric acid (or a specific karat acid solution) is applied to the scratch.
- The reaction, or lack thereof, indicates the gold’s purity. Genuine gold shows little to no reaction, while lower-karat gold or fake gold reacts more visibly, often changing color or dissolving.
Pawnbrokers use different acid solutions calibrated to specific karat levels (10k, 14k, 18k, and so on) to narrow down the exact purity of the piece.
Electronic Testing (XRF Analysis)
For the most precise results, many pawn shops, including Empire Loan, use X-ray fluorescence (XRF) technology. This non-destructive method uses an electronic gold tester that analyzes the metal’s composition down to the exact percentage of gold, silver, copper, and other elements present.
XRF testing is fast, highly accurate, and doesn’t damage the item in the process, making it a preferred method for jewelry buyers who want to give customers a reliable, honest evaluation.
Weight and Density Testing
Gold has a distinct density (19.3 grams per cubic centimeter for pure gold), so some pawnbrokers use a density test as an additional verification step. By measuring an item’s weight and volume, they can compare the results against known gold density values to help confirm authenticity.
How Do Pawn Shops Determine Karat Value?
Once a pawnbroker confirms an item is genuine gold, the next step is determining its exact karat value. This is where testing methods, like acid tests and XRF analysis, come together to identify the gold’s purity percentage. Here’s a quick breakdown of common karat values and what they represent:
- 10k gold: 41.7% pure gold. This is the most durable and affordable option, commonly used in everyday jewelry.
- 14k gold: 58.3% pure gold. A popular middle ground offering a nice balance of durability and gold content.
- 18k gold: 75% pure gold. This option has a richer color and higher value, often used in fine jewelry.
- 24k gold: 99.9% pure gold. This is the purest form of gold, but it’s soft and less commonly used for jewelry meant for daily wear.
Pawn shops calculate the item’s value using the karat, the item’s weight, and the current market price of gold. This ensures the offer they make you accurately reflects what the item is genuinely worth, not just its appearance or brand.
Contact Empire Loan to Sell Gold in New England!
If you have any questions about the gold testing process or are interested in selling gold, please contact Empire Loan today or visit any of our eight locations in New England! We are proud to be New England’s most trusted & reliable gold buyer, with locations throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island! Contact us today at your local Empire Loan location or call us toll-free at +1 800 375-PAWN!