Gold pendant with '375' engraving on a dark background, symbolizing 9ct gold authenticity.

How to Identify Real 9ct Gold: Hallmarks, Testing Methods & Common Scams

9ct gold, also known as 375 gold, is one of the most popular choices for jewellery, valued for its durability, affordability, and versatility. However, with the rise of fake gold scams and misrepresented pieces, knowing how to verify if your gold is real is essential.

This guide will walk you through hallmark verification, gold testing methods, and common scams to help you make informed buying and selling decisions.

Jump to Section

What is 9ct Gold & The 375 Hallmark?

Understanding 9ct Gold Composition

9ct gold consists of 37.5% pure gold and 62.5% alloy metals such as copper, silver, or nickel. These added metals enhance its strength and durability, making it a popular choice for daily-wear jewellery.

What Does the 375 Hallmark Mean?

The ‘375’ hallmark indicates that a piece contains 37.5% pure gold. In the UK and many other countries, hallmarking is legally required to confirm authenticity. You can find this stamp inside rings, on bracelet clasps, or near necklace bails.

How to Check If 9ct Gold is Real

1. Hallmark Verification

  • Look for the 375 stamp inside the jewellery.
  • Ensure the piece also has an Assay Office mark (e.g., Birmingham, London, Edinburgh).
  • If the hallmark is missing or unclear, further testing is required.

2. The Float Test

  • Real gold is dense and sinks in water, while fake items may float or hover.
  • Place the gold piece in a container of water and observe its behaviour.
  • If it floats or remains suspended, it is likely a counterfeit.

3. The Magnet Test

  • Gold is non-magnetic, so if your jewellery sticks to a magnet, it likely contains iron or other base metals.
  • Some gold-plated pieces pass this test, so use additional verification methods.

4. The Acid Test

  • Professional jewellers use nitric acid to test gold purity.
  • 9ct gold reacts differently than other purities—green/milky reactions indicate fakes.
  • Acid testing should only be done by an expert, as it can damage plated jewellery.

5. Electronic & XRF Spectrometry Testing

  • Electronic gold testers analyze gold content without damage.
  • XRF Spectrometry provides a non-destructive, highly accurate alloy breakdown.
  • These methods are used by jewellers and gold traders for precise authentication.

6. Weight & Scratch Test

  • Gold is dense—if a piece feels too light for its size, it may be fake or hollow.
  • A scratch test on unglazed ceramic can reveal whether the piece is gold-plated (gold leaves a gold streak, while fake jewellery leaves a grey or black mark).

Common Fake Gold Scams & How to Avoid Them

Tungsten-Coated Gold

  • Fraudsters use tungsten cores with gold plating to mimic real gold.
  • Only XRF spectrometry or professional gold testing can detect these counterfeits.

Fake Certificates & Documentation

  • Some sellers provide forged authenticity certificates.
  • Always cross-check paperwork with reputable assay office databases.

Gold-Filled vs Solid Gold Confusion

  • Gold-filled jewellery has a thicker gold layer than plating but is not solid gold.
  • Verify if the seller clearly states the metal composition before purchasing.

Selling & Buying 9ct Gold – What You Need to Know

Selling Gold Without a Hallmark

  • Unhallmarked gold can still be sold, but buyers may offer lower prices due to uncertainty about purity.
  • If you plan to sell gold, having it professionally tested and hallmarked can increase its value.

Where to Get Gold Authenticated?

  • UK Assay Offices offer professional hallmark verification.
  • Reputable jewellers and gold buyers use acid and electronic tests.
  • Always get multiple opinions before selling high-value jewellery.

FAQs About Identifying 9ct Gold

Can fake jewellery have a 375 stamp?

Yes, counterfeit pieces can be stamped with fake hallmarks. That’s why checking for additional Assay marks and professional testing is crucial.

What do I do if my gold has no hallmark?

If your gold jewellery is unhallmarked, you can:

  • Take it to a jeweller for testing.
  • Submit it to an Assay Office for official hallmarking.
  • If selling, expect lower offers from buyers due to the lack of verification.

How much is 9ct gold worth?

  • The value of 9ct gold fluctuates based on the market price of gold.
  • To estimate its worth:

Total Weight (g) × 0.375 × Live Gold Price per Gram

  • Always check the current gold price before buying or selling.

Where can I get gold professionally tested?

  • UK Assay Offices
  • Professional jewellers
  • Gold-buying services that offer on-site testing

Is 9ct gold hypoallergenic?

  • Some 9ct gold contains nickel, which can cause reactions in sensitive skin.
  • For a hypoallergenic alternative, look for nickel-free 9ct gold or palladium-based white gold.

Conclusion & Further Reading

Verifying real 9ct gold is essential for buyers and sellers alike. By understanding hallmarks, testing methods, and common scams, you can ensure your gold is authentic and valuable.

Further Reading:

This guide ensures you can buy, sell, and wear 9ct gold with confidence.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.