You own a piece and something has made you suspicious — a jeweler's comment, a comparison with a friend's piece, or something you noticed yourself. You're not sure if your concern is real or if you're being paranoid.
Get it tested. Take it to a jeweler or send it to a lab.
"What specific observation made you concerned — and what would resolve it?"
Describe your specific concern clearly — what you observed, when, and compared to what. Then determine the single smallest step that would resolve it.
Start with careful observation under good light. Look for hallmarks indicating metal purity (750, 585, 925). Check for wear patterns — real gold doesn't change color underneath. Examine stone settings for quality. If these observations raise specific concerns, then consider testing. Don't jump to expensive lab work before simple visual inspection.
Only if you have a specific concern you can articulate. If you can't say what made you suspicious, start with observation and documentation. If you can point to something specific — an unusual mark, unexpected wear, a stone that doesn't look right — then testing that specific thing is proportionate.
Visual inspection and magnet testing are safe. Gold is not magnetic — if a magnet sticks to your piece, it's not solid gold. But non-magnetic doesn't prove it's gold. Acid testing can damage or discolor the piece. Leave chemical testing to professionals unless you're prepared for potential damage.
