How to Identify Real Gold Jewellery at Home

By Dhirsons Jewellers, Karol Bagh | Trusted Since 1965

Whether you’ve inherited a family heirloom or bought jewellery recently, knowing if your gold is real is essential. While a BIS Hallmark is the ultimate sign of purity, here are some quick ways to check at home — shared by our experts at Dhirsons Jewellers Karol Bagh.

1. Look for the BIS Hallmark

BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) hallmark is the most reliable indicator of genuine 22kt gold. It includes:

BIS logo
Purity grade (e.g., 22K916)
Assaying centre’s mark
Jeweller’s unique code

At Dhirsons, every piece we sell is 100% BIS Hallmarked.

2. The Magnet Test (Quick But Limited)

Real gold is not magnetic. If your jewellery is attracted to a magnet, it may be fake or mixed with other metals. This isn’t foolproof but a helpful starting point.

3. The Float Test (For Small Items)

Drop your item in a cup of water. Real gold is dense and will sink immediately. Fakes or gold-plated pieces may float or sink slowly.

4. The Rub Test (Look for Discoloration)

Gently rub your gold on a clean white cloth. If black or green marks appear, it may be gold-plated or fake.

5. Vinegar or Acid Test (Use with Caution)

Drop a little white vinegar on the item. Real gold remains unaffected, while fakes may discolor. Avoid this method on delicate jewellery or pieces with stones.

Need to Be Sure? Visit Dhirsons Jewellers Karol Bagh

Home tests are quick checks — but not always accurate. At Dhirsons, we offer:

Free BIS Hallmark verification
Free cleaning & polishing
Expert inspection of old jewellery

Visit us at our flagship store in Karol Bagh and let our trusted in-house experts inspect your items for free.

“Since 1965, families across Delhi have trusted Dhirsons for honest pricing, ethical practices, and authentic gold.”

Why It Matters

With gold prices rising and counterfeits becoming smarter, it's more important than ever to verify your jewellery before gifting, selling, or storing it. Dhirsons Jewellers is always here to help — no purchase required.

Need a Second Opinion?

Share a photo of your jewellery on WhatsApp or visit our showroom at 2652-53, Bank Street, Karol Bagh. Let our experts do a free verification and cleaning.