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How to Tell Real Gold from Fake. You can uncover a treasure at yard sales and flea markets
if you know how to tell real gold from fake. Follow these tips to learn how to find your
pot of gold. You will need Gold coin Gold jewelry Jeweler or metal exchange expert and
tissue paper or jewelry box (optional). Step 1. Bite down onto a gold coin or jewelry piece.
Fake gold will not dent at all on a bite test. Real gold will, but so will some newer methods
of gold plating. Store gold jewelry separate from jewelry with diamonds, or the diamonds
might scratch the gold. Wrap gold in tissue paper or store it in a separate jewelry box.
Step 2. Examine the surface of the gold item to see if you can find a stamp or other marking
that indicates a carat value. American-made gold items will have this type of mark, but
items from other countries may not. Step 3. Examine the surface of the gold item, looking
carefully for any green or black spots that may be visible. These markings indicate fake
gold. Pay particular attention to edges and clasps when examining the surface of the gold,
as this is often where the discoloration appears. Step 4. Hold the gold item in your hand, and
pay attention to the weight. Real gold is very dense and heavy, but fake gold will feel
lighter. Step 5. Consult with a jeweler or metal exchange expert to confirm the authenticity
of your gold item. They can also help you determine a value for your new find and help
you know whether you did indeed find real gold. Did you know In 1848, James Marshall
found a few flakes of gold at Sutter's Mill in California. During the next seven years,
nearly 300,000 people traveled to California to seek their treasure and look for gold.