How to Know Real Gold Philippines: 5 Easy Tests | Endless Charms
How to Know Real Gold Philippines: 5 Simple Tests Anyone Can Do
Are you worried about buying fake gold jewelry in the Philippines? With rising gold prices and increasing counterfeits, knowing how to identify authentic gold has become essential for every Filipino buyer.
The good news: You can spot fake gold using simple tests that take less than 2 minutes. Here's your complete guide to identifying real gold jewelry in the Philippines.
Why Gold Authentication Matters in the Philippines
Fake gold jewelry has flooded Philippine markets, especially online. Many Filipinos lose thousands of pesos buying "18k gold" that turns out to be gold-plated brass or copper.
Real gold jewelry serves as:
- Emergency funds (pawnable at any time)
- Protection against peso inflation
- Valuable inheritance for your family
- Status symbol that retains value
5 Easy Ways to Test Real Gold
1. Look for Hallmark Stamps
Authentic gold jewelry in the Philippines must have these stamps:
- 14k or 585 - 58.5% pure gold
- 18k or 750 - 75% pure gold
- 21k or 875 - 87.5% pure gold
- 22k or 916 - 91.6% pure gold
Check clasps, inner bands, and hidden areas for these markings. No hallmark = likely fake.
2. The Magnet Test
Real gold is not magnetic. Hold a strong magnet near your jewelry:
- No attraction = Likely real gold
- Strong attraction = Fake (iron or steel base)
- Weak attraction = Gold-plated metal
Note: This test isn't 100% accurate since some fake gold uses non-magnetic metals.
3. The Skin Test
Wear the jewelry for 2-3 hours and check for:
- No skin discoloration = Real gold
- Green or black marks = Fake gold (copper or nickel base)
- Redness or irritation = Low-quality metal alloy
4. The Float Test
Drop your jewelry in a glass of water:
- Sinks quickly = Likely real (gold is dense)
- Floats or sinks slowly = Probably fake
5. Professional Acid Test
For expensive pieces, visit a reputable jeweler for acid testing. This is the most accurate method and costs only ₱50-₱200 in most Philippine jewelry shops.
Red Flags: Signs of Fake Gold
Avoid jewelry with these warning signs:
- Price too good to be true (₱500 for "18k gold" ring)
- No brand or business registration
- Seller refuses authenticity guarantee
- Heavy tarnishing after few weeks
- Rough or uneven surfaces
- Missing hallmarks or unclear stamps
Where to Buy Authentic Gold in the Philippines
Shop only from:
- Licensed jewelry stores with DTI permits
- Established brands with physical locations
- Shops offering authenticity certificates
- Jewelers who provide written warranties
👉 At Endless Charms, every piece comes with:
- 100% authentic gold guarantee
- Proper hallmarking (14k-18k options)
- Pawnable certification
- Lifetime authenticity warranty
Current 18k Gold Prices in Philippines (2026)
As of February 2026, authentic 18k gold in the Philippines costs approximately:
- ₱3,800-₱4,200 per gram (retail jewelry)
- ₱3,400-₱3,700 per gram (pawnshop rates)
- ₱3,200-₱3,500 per gram (wholesale/bulk)
Prices vary based on current London gold fixing and peso exchange rates.
Why Choose Endless Charms for Authentic Gold
When you invest in gold jewelry, authenticity is everything. Endless Charms guarantees:
- 100% pawnable gold - verified by major pawnshops
- Proper hallmarking - 14k and 18k options available
- Custom sizing - perfect fit guaranteed
- Free authenticity testing - bring your jewelry anytime
👉 View Our Authentic Gold Collection
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my old gold jewelry is real?
Use the magnet test first, then check for hallmarks. For valuable pieces, get professional acid testing at any jewelry shop for ₱50-₱200.
Is 14k gold better than 18k gold in the Philippines?
18k gold has higher gold content (75% vs 58.5%) and better pawn value. 14k gold is more durable for daily wear. Both are authentic and pawnable.
Can fake gold pass the magnet test?
Yes, if made from non-magnetic metals like aluminum or brass. Combine magnet test with hallmark checking and skin test for better accuracy.
Where can I test my gold for free in the Philippines?
Many reputable jewelry stores offer free gold testing for potential customers. Some pawnshops also provide this service.
What should I do if I bought fake gold?
Report to DTI, demand refund from seller, and leave reviews to warn others. Always keep receipts and ask for authenticity certificates when buying.
Protect Your Investment Today
Don't risk your hard-earned money on questionable gold. When buying jewelry in the Philippines, always verify authenticity using these simple tests.
Ready to invest in guaranteed authentic gold? Visit Endless Charms for professionally certified, pawnable gold jewelry that holds its value for generations.