Nearly all real gold is stamped with a hallmark that notes the karat weight of the jewelry, like 10K or 14K. If it doesn't then it may be fake.
Since the purity of American-made gold jewelry is measured in karats, there will be a stamp on these pieces with a number followed by the letter "K". The number simply indicates, in parts per 24, how much of the metal is actually gold. For example, a mark of "14K" means that it is 14 karat gold and that 14/24 (just over half) of the metal is gold. By the same token, 24K would be 100% pure gold.
The best way to find out is to take it to a reputable jewelry dealer. They have the type of testing kit that can be used to tell if something is real gold or fake. Most jewelry stores charge a small fee to test gold jewelry.
Solid gold jewellery is a purchase that you will be able to enjoy for life, even generations, so before you make a purchase it is wise to educate yourself on the different standards of gold available.
Here are some key facts everyone should know about gold before making a jewellery purchase and what to look out for as a shopper shared by Edgeonly.com.