Let’s face it, buying antique jewellery can feel a little like treasure hunting. There's the thrill of discovery, the beauty of craftsmanship... and sometimes, that little voice in your head wondering, “Is this real gold?”
Well, wonder no more.
We’ve invested in a Niton DXL XRF analyser, a super-smart (and super-fast) machine that tells us exactly what a piece of jewellery is made of. It uses X-ray fluorescence to test gold, silver, platinum, and other precious metals without damaging the jewellery at all. That means no scratches, no acid, no stress, just accurate results in seconds.
Why It Matters: The Rise of Convincing Fakes
Unfortunately, fake gold is everywhere these days and some of it looks VERY convincing. We’re talking gold-plated pieces with fake hallmarks, base metals disguised as solid gold, or jewellery that feels heavy and “right” but totally isn’t.
With metal prices going up, it’s never been more important to know what you’re buying. That’s why we've gone all-in on professional testing. When you shop with us, you’re not just getting something beautiful, you’re getting peace of mind.
How Can You Spot Fake Gold?
Here are a few quick DIY tricks if you’re trying to figure out whether a gold chain (or any gold piece) is the real deal:
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Magnet Test: Gold isn’t magnetic. If your piece sticks to a magnet, it’s probably fake.
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Scratch Test: Rub it on an unglazed ceramic tile - real gold leaves a gold streak. Black or grey? Bad news.
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Skin Test: If your jewellery leaves green or black marks on your skin, it’s likely not pure gold. (Sensitive Skin can however react to all metals, including gold. Metals can also react to perfumes or chemicals on the skin)
These tests are handy, but they’re not foolproof - especially when it comes to older or intricately made jewellery.
The Pro Tools: Why We Love Our Niton DXL
There are more advanced methods out there too:
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Acid testing: Common, but risky for antique pieces - it can damage the surface.
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Electronic testers: Decent, but not always accurate with rolled gold or antique alloys.
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XRF testing: Our method of choice. It’s fast, accurate, and 100% safe for even the most delicate jewellery.
We chose the Niton DXL because it's the best in the business. And we think your jewellery deserves the best.
Tested, Certified, and Trusted
When you buy from us, you can trust that your piece has been professionally tested - no guesswork, no surprises. We can even provide you with a certificate of authenticity, showing the exact metal breakdown of your item, should you wish.
Whether you're buying a gift, building your collection, or treating yourself, it's good to know you’re getting the real thing!
So next time you're shopping for antique gold jewellery, remember: trust your gut, but back it up with science.
We’ve got the tech, the expertise, and the love for beautiful old things - all to make sure you're getting exactly what you paid for.
Ready to find your next treasure? Browse our fully tested collection and buy with confidence.
