How to tell if gold is real?

Discussion in 'Gold' started by unfunkable, Feb 7, 2011.

  1. Kirk

    Kirk Member

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    that's very expensive - would hate to test each shipment/order using that method
     
  2. Byron

    Byron Guest

    Is there any way you could tell apart a sovereign made with 14k gold as opposed to 22k?

    Would it weigh more, have a larger diameter?
     
  3. Dwayne

    Dwayne New Member

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    It would weigh less, or be larger/thicker (or both)
     
  4. razoo

    razoo New Member

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    The specific gravity test sounds quite effective for gold. What are the limitations and risks when using SG?
     
  5. BullionNZ

    BullionNZ New Member

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    The SG test would be as accurate as the control measures put in place so their could potentially be some 'user introduced' inaccuracies. With chemical analysis there is no debate; it is what it is. Each to their own in terms of what comfort blanket they need/desire.


    Disclaimer: I am directly associated with BullionNZ
     
  6. rbaggio

    rbaggio Active Member Silver Stacker

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    Regarding the specific gravity test involving water...

    I recently bought a medallion, seller believed it is bronze, however I believe it may be 18k gold:
    http://www.taxfreegold.co.uk/1972debeersdiamondresearchlaboratorysilverjubileegoldmedallion.html
    (Google can't find any references to bronze versions of this medallion)

    Can the sg test help me to determine if the medallion I received is 18k gold? Wouldn't this require I know what the alloy consists of?

    Or would an XRF test be better here?

    Thanks!
     
  7. LTEK4NZ

    LTEK4NZ Member Silver Stacker

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    XRF for alloys

    unless its stirling and your willing to bet its just copper added.
     
  8. Dirtbikepilot

    Dirtbikepilot Active Member

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    [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pj76xSFNK6c[/youtube]
     
  9. rbaggio

    rbaggio Active Member Silver Stacker

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    Thanks LTEK4NZ
     
  10. Eureka Moments

    Eureka Moments Well-Known Member Silver Stacker

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    Buy nuggs from me.
     
  11. Guest

    Guest Guest

    Bite!

    [​IMG]
     
  12. Peter

    Peter Well-Known Member

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    I suppose 24 k gold (kuges) is harder to counterfeit ,in terms of density,than 18k.
    (I.e sovereigns,koalas,..)
    Does any realistic mix approach 18k?
    Might be why the Asian demand 24k.
     
  13. Alfie

    Alfie Active Member

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    If Kuges = Krugerrands they are 22ct, or 916 not 24K
     
  14. Peter

    Peter Well-Known Member

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    Yep,my sorry.Sov ,etc are 22k as well..
    I suppose coin used as currency coins are,at a max.
    They can't be too soft.
    Collector coins and bars can be 999.
    Maples are 999.
    Still the question remains.
    Does the difference in density make 90% much difference in terms of counterfeitablity.
     

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