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Determining whether a piece of jewelry is made of genuine gold, silver, or platinum requires a combination of visual inspection and physical tests. Start by checking for hallmarks or stamps, which indicate the metal’s purity, such as “14K” for gold or “925” for sterling silver. You can also perform a magnet test, as precious metals aren’t magnetic. For more accuracy, consider acid testing or measuring the metal’s density. If in doubt, professional jewelers can provide expert analysis. These steps help ensure you’re investing in real precious metals and not imitations.

Precious metals like gold, silver, and platinum are highly valued in fine jewelry and themed charms for their beauty, rarity, and rust resistance. Their purity, or fineness, impacts both value and price, with higher karat golds offering richer colors but softer compositions. Alloying these metals with others, such as copper or nickel, enhances durability and introduces a range of colors like white, rose, or green gold. In the US, 14K gold and sterling silver are especially popular for balancing affordability, strength, and elegance. Understanding these properties allows for informed choices when selecting jewelry, whether for luxury pieces or affordable charms.