How to Check Metal for Silver

To find out if it is really gold or silver, you will need an acid testing kit.

When precious metals are sold in the U.S., they must be stamped with a purity mark. This mark will denote that the item is silver and how much it contains. Pure silver is marked .999. sterling silver is marked .925 and coin silver can vary between .999 and .959. This mark can sometimes wear away or not be present at all. In some cases, items sold as white gold may be silver. In any case, these items can be tested by using nitric acid to determine if the metal is silver.

Things You'll Need

• File
• Acid testing kit
• Gloves, nitrile or latex

Instructions

1. Put on the gloves and find a well-ventilated area in which to workn. You do not want to inhale the fumes during testing.

2. File away a small portion of the metal in an inconspicuous place. This is done in case there is some type of coating or plating on the metal. You want to remove this coating so you can test the metal underneath.

3. Apply a small drop of nitric acid from the testing kit and watch for color change. If there is no change, the metal is either gold or some other type of non-reactive metal. If it turns a very bright red, it is pure silver. If the color becomes a dark red, it is sterling silver.

4. Wash the tested area with water from the sink and let dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Usually an acid testing kit for jewelry will come with a chart that can clarify what type of metal you have beyond simple gold and silver.

• Do not inhale the fumes during testing. Do not allow the acid to come into contact with your skin or clothes.

References

• Federal Trade Commission:Guides for the Jewelry, Precious Metals, and Pewter Industries
• United States Code: Falsely Stamped Gold or Silver
• Rings and Things: Sterling Silver Quality