In light of reports that Kenya has become a haven for fraudsters who have swamped the market with fake gold; it is of paramount importance to understand how to distinguish between what is genuine and what's not.
As a buyer, you need to be on the lookout when purchasing gold. You need to acquaint yourself with different ways of identifying the gold.
Do not end up buying just a metal under the guise of gold. This is how to go about ascertaining if the gold you very-much want is real or fake:
1. Use the gold testing kits
The testing kits come in various forms. The acid testing kit identifies purity through acidic reactions. The other forms such as touchstone and electronic testing kits make a comparison of the reaction of the real gold to other forms of gold. This method is the most convenient and universally accepted.
2. Use of a magnet
One of the properties of real gold is that it cannot be attracted by a magnet no matter what.
They are not magnetic in nature. However, if it is a fake one, it will be attracted. It is the easiest method and also convenient.
3. Use a jewellery cleaning cloth
If possible, use the cloth, rub against the gold and carefully note these observations. If it is a fake gold, the plated metal will peel off. Whereas, real gold tends to be brighter.
4. Use sterling silver cleaner solutions
The method takes time to show the results. Dip the gold in a solution and note the following results. Fake gold will fade whereas genuine gold remains shiny.