The acid test for gold
Practical guide on using test acids to identify karats.
The acid test remains the professional standard. It involves rubbing the jewelry on a touchstone and applying an acid test kit of different concentrations (14k, 18k, 24k).
Reactions: 18k gold remains bright under 18k acid but disappears under 24k acid. If the trace disappears immediately with the first acid, the object is likely only gold-plated.
Safety first: Acids are highly corrosive. This test should ideally be performed by a professional to avoid damaging the jewelry or injuring yourself.