Identifying Gold Jewelry: A Guide for Beginners

Question
I am new to vintage jewelry & I am confused about jewelry indentification. First, I have a very old chain that appears to be gold, but there are no markings. I purchased an acid test kit & the chain did test as 12K, but the old clasp did not test. I was told that the chain was plated as well, but I tested it several times & it was always a positive reading. Is there a more accurate testing method or do they all have trouble with gold plated items? or could my chain be solid? Another question about testing: I recently recieved a huge estate ring lot. some were marked 14K, etc, but some markings I have trouble with. The first says "14K P", but it tests 14K. Another is marked CCI & also tests gold. I am so confused with the testing of gold. I really need help or guidance. Do you haev any advice on how I can get a more accurate test myself instead of relying on others. Thanks, Tammy

Answer
Hi Tammy - All I can say is it takes practice to read the acid correctly. A lot of things come into play - how deeply your test strip is, etc. Chains are particularly difficult to do. You can buy the electronic gold testers. I have heard people have good results with them. They are available on ebay.com at reasonable prices. There is also a book out "How to be a Jewelry Detective" by Jeanenne Bell, that gives some good information on testing metals. The more you do, the more accurate you will become. Hope this helps and good luck !