Got a piece of jewelry collecting dust in your drawer? Maybe you inherited a few coins or found an old gold chain in the back of your jewelry box. Whatever it is, you may be wondering: “Is this real gold?” At KK’s Pawn, with locations in McMinnville, Manchester, and Tullahoma, we help people across Middle Tennessee get answers—and cash—for their gold every day. Here’s how you can tell if your gold is real, and what to do if you’re not sure.
1. Check for a Hallmark
Most real gold jewelry will have a small stamp indicating its purity—often on the clasp or inside a ring band. These marks include numbers like 10K, 14K, 18K, or 24K, and sometimes you’ll see percentages (like 585 for 14K). No stamp doesn’t always mean it’s fake, but it’s a good starting point.
2. Try the Magnet Test
Gold is not magnetic. If a strong magnet pulls your item, it’s likely mixed with or made of other metals. This test isn’t perfect, but it’s a fast at-home method to rule out obvious fakes.
3. Look for Discoloration
Real gold doesn’t tarnish or turn green. If you see flaking, peeling, or discoloration—especially near the edges—your piece might be gold-plated or costume jewelry.
4. Feel the Weight
Gold is dense. If your piece feels unusually light for its size, it might not be real. While this test is subjective, experienced buyers (like the team at KK’s Pawn!) often notice a difference right away.
5. Visit KK’s Pawn for a Free Appraisal
We get it—home tests can only go so far. That’s why we offer free, professional appraisals at all KK’s Pawn locations. Our experts use industry-grade tools and years of experience to test your items and give you a fair, honest offer.
We buy:
- Gold jewelry (broken or whole)
- Gold coins and bullion
- Dental gold
- Scrap gold
- Gold watches
- And more!
Whether you’re looking to sell your gold for cash or just curious about what it’s worth, we’re here to help.
Stop Wondering. Start Cashing In.
Gold prices have stayed strong, and now might be the perfect time to turn unused items into something useful. Come visit any of our Middle Tennessee locations in McMinnville, Manchester, or Tullahoma for a free gold evaluation today.