925 standard refers to gold or silver and how to distinguish them? — Glitter Gem
11.02.2019
There is often a lot of controversy surrounding the 925 hallmark. Questions are asked by people who want to know what they were offered in a jewelry store: white gold or silver. It is quite easy to deceive a person who does not understand the jewelry business and sell him a cheaper precious metal under the guise of gold. Is there a 925 gold grade?
Samples of precious metals
The sample represents a certain standard indicating the ratio of the pure substance and the additional components of the alloy. Each of the precious metals has its own system of such standards, as well as a corresponding type of mark, which an ordinary consumer can see on the finished product.
Gold samples listed in Russia.
In the Russian Federation, the following markings are provided for yellow precious metal: 375, 500, 585, 750, 958 and 999. The 585 marking is considered the most common in use. It is characterized by good resistance to mechanical stress, wear resistance, and an affordable price.
The next in order, 750 standard, is already more expensive; it is used for products with filigree, thin drifts and for settings of fragile precious stones.
Gold of the highest grades is very soft, polishing on a product made from an alloy with an element content of 95.8% will not last long, so it is not practical to use such metal in the mass production of jewelry.
What other types of gold are there in jewelry? The number 925 is not in the specified list, because it refers to silver markings. For this metal in the Russian Federation there are 800, 830, 875, 925, 960 and 999 standards. According to the requirements of Russian legislation, the mark with the number 925 can only appear on a silver product.
Theoretically, the existence of 925 yellow metal is possible, that is, it can have the same markings as cheaper silver. But in world standards that apply to jewelry activities, there is no such gold alloy.
Gold 925 will be practically no different from the already available options, as well as the pure substance. It will be inconvenient to use it in production due to the technical characteristics that are transferred to the alloy from other components of the alloy.
925 silver marking
The history of silver jewelry keeps in mind many legends and beliefs associated with this metal. At different times, magical and sometimes even medicinal properties were attributed to it.
What exactly is an alloy, does 925 contain gold or silver? A ligature marked 925 does not contain gold at all; it contains 92.5% silver and 7.5% additional components, which usually include germanium, silicon and platinum.
Due to the high concentration of the main precious metal, such an alloy is called sterling. The components of silver alloys differ from those of gold alloys. They provide the silver alloy with enhanced strength and the desired shade of the finished jewelry.
Metal markings from 720 to 830 are characterized by a high copper content, which is expressed in their yellowish tint and poor resistance to oxidative processes. These samples are used mainly in industrial production.
875 silver is sometimes used in jewelry, but due to its yellowish tint it cannot boast of excellent aesthetic qualities.
The 960 marking is rarely used for another reason: products of incredible beauty can be made from such a precious metal, but they will not be durable.
925 silver is valued by jewelers because of its ease of processing: very complex filigree jewelry can be made from this metal. This sample is most in demand compared to other precious metal markings. Lower-order samples oxidize faster and lose their attractive appearance.
Metal with such characteristics is sometimes rhodium-plated - it is coated with itself. This procedure increases the brightness of the jewelry and also provides it with additional protection from scratches.
The price of a gram of metal is determined based on the fixing of the London Stock Exchange. The cost of finished jewelry includes not only the cost of raw materials, but also other components:
- Cost of the jeweler's work;
- Taxes;
- Import costs if raw materials are purchased abroad;
- Seller's profit;
- Brand awareness.
Even taking into account all the components, the cost of high-grade silver is acceptable for many consumers. 925 gold would cost several times more.
925 precious metal is used to make elegant jewelry, which in its aesthetic characteristics is in no way inferior to gold products. 925 silver marking is very popular among buyers, this is confirmed by metal quotes, demand in stores and the number of requests on the Internet. Consumer interest is due to the quality of finished products and the high content of the substance in the master alloy.
Not only jewelry, but also cutlery are in demand. They are durable and characterized by a beautiful shine that does not lose from regular contact with food.
How to distinguish silver and white gold?
High sterling silver jewelry is characterized by an attractive appearance and beautiful shine. Often this silver looks like white gold. Unscrupulous sellers take advantage of this feature, offering customers cheaper metal under the guise of luxury jewelry. How to distinguish them from each other?
The first thing you should pay attention to is the brand. Gold cannot be 925 standard. The mark on silver has the shape of a barrel, and on gold it is a slightly elongated rectangle. Even if you cannot distinguish the shape of the mark, you must look at the number on it. If it costs 925, you have a silver product.
Don't forget that the two elements have different densities. This characteristic can also be used to determine the metal. To carry out calculations, you need to weigh the products on high-precision scales and calculate the density value using the formula. The obtained result is compared with the table of density of precious metals. This method is only suitable for jewelry without stone inserts.
It is necessary to compare the products externally. In terms of visual perception, white gold has a brighter shine compared to silver. The problem is that it is impossible to draw final conclusions about the material of the product based on this method of verification. The procedures of plating other metals and rhodium plating on silver items make visual comparisons much more difficult.
Determining whether you have 925 silver or white gold is sometimes quite difficult. The first sign that you need to pay attention to is the presence of a mark, its shape, and the meaning of the marking. The number 925 in the stamp in the form of a barrel indicates that the store is offering you a silver product. Then you need to evaluate the appearance of the product, pay attention to its color and shine.
Not the last characteristic is the price of the jewelry. White gold is an alloy of a special alloy, the final color of which is determined by additional components. Yellow precious metal, regardless of its shade, is more expensive than silver jewelry.
Source: https://kabirski-store.ru/sostav/925-proba-otnositsya-k-zolotu-ili-serebru-i-kak-ih-otlichit.html
How to determine where is silver and where is white gold
Jewelry was made even before our era, only they carried a different meaning - they served as an amulet for their owner, protected him from natural disasters, and attracted good luck in the hunt.
Later, products made from precious metals began to be worn as a luxury item; as for the modern world, this message continues to this day.
But each precious metal contains a special energy that influences the life of its owner, so before you ask the question: “How to distinguish white gold from silver,” you need to find out what significance these metals have.
The meaning and energy of noble metals
White gold is a relatively young alloy, it appeared in the twentieth century and immediately gained great popularity, all eyes were fixed on it. From an energetic point of view, it is considered more of a feminine metal, carrying spirituality and the search for the meaning of life. Actively promotes the establishment of harmony in personal relationships and provides an incentive for self-improvement.
As for silver (argentan), it has been known to mankind since ancient times, therefore its meaning is deeper - its main task is to kill the dark side in a person, bringing him closer to God and increasing his energy power. That is why it is customary to make crosses from this metal. In addition, it gives vitality to its owner and helps fight diseases.
It is from the perspective of semantic load that you should choose jewelry. But in order for them to really help their owner and protect him, you need to be sure that the products are made of the right metal.
Characteristics of white gold and silver, ways to distinguish them
White gold is an alloy of gold and argentanium with the addition of one of the following elements: platinum, nickel or palladium.
Argentan is a silver-white metal that has such a high ductility that one gram of it can stretch 2 km of wire!
Externally, jewelry made from both metals is not much different.
So, if, at first glance, items made of white gold and silver are very similar, how to distinguish them from each other, how to check the jewelry for one or another? The question is very relevant today, because the cost of products varies tenfold, and it is very easy to fall for the tricks of scammers who sell silver under the guise of white gold. But for a person who has information about the physical properties of each of these metals, it will be quite easy to recognize that this is white gold or argentan.
There are several ways to check jewelry for authenticity (a brief overview is presented in Table 1):
- You can visually distinguish them by color: both have a light tint, but in silver it is bright white, and in white gold it is steel-like, with a barely noticeable golden tint. Polishing adds additional complexity to the difference; after it, the color of both metals is almost the same, but you can look into the inner, untreated areas of the jewelry. In addition, silver products do not shine so much; they become dull when exposed to the external environment.
- Resistance to deformation is another feature by which it is easy to distinguish both metals. Silver is characterized by softness; when squeezed, a product made from it will easily bend, but in order to subject gold to deformation, you will have to put in much more effort. In addition, if you try to influence them with any metal object, then it is unlikely that anything will appear on gold jewelry, and scratches will be clearly visible on silver.
- The next method will require products of the same weight and size - if you throw them on a hard surface, then gold will have a pronounced ringing sound, and silver will have a dull sound, this is due to the hardness of the metals.
- An important part of identification is the hallmark - a special marking that both white gold and silver have. In gold it has a different shape - a square combined with a rectangle, in the square there is an image of a woman in a kokoshnik, in the rectangle there are numbers indicating the fineness - the number of mg of pure gold in 1 g of alloy (375, 585, 750). The silver has an oval hallmark, shaped like a barrel, with the same woman in it, but the hallmarks are different (830, 875, 925, 960).
- How to check the authenticity of gold at home? You can use “Whiteness” - you can probably find it in every home. If you drop a little on the product, the white gold will remain unchanged, but a black spot will appear on the silver. Iodine is used according to the same principle - there will be no harm to gold jewelry, but silver jewelry will instantly become colored. This is the fastest and most reliable way to distinguish white gold from silver using available tools.
Table 1 - White gold and argentan - how to distinguish by physical properties
Properties, methods of exposure White gold Silver| Color | Steely, golden hue | White |
| Shine | Consistently bright | Fades over time |
| Hardness | High | Low |
| Strength | High | Low |
| Sound when hitting a surface | Voiced | Deaf |
| Brand | Square merged into rectangle | Oval in the form of a barrel |
| Exposure to chlorine-containing substances | Does not react | Oxidizes |
| Exposure to iodine | Does not react | Will be colored |
But how can you determine the difference between white gold and silver if the products have been rhodium-plated?
Rhodium is a metal that is used to coat jewelry to increase its strength several times. In this case, both silver and gold jewelry acquire the same color and shine, while silver is more resistant to oxidation. The solution is to use all identification measures in a complex.
Visual recognition of white gold and silver in a jewelry store is quite possible; just look carefully at the type of hallmark and hallmark.
With special illumination of display cases, absolutely all products have the same bright, extraordinary shine and radiance, so this method is not very reliable.
Sellers are unlikely to allow you to throw, squeeze or drip iodine and chlorine onto jewelry, so in order to reduce the likelihood of buying counterfeit products to zero, you need to visit only large retail outlets that have long established themselves in the jewelry market.
Source: https://ProDragmetally.ru/o-zolote/interesnye-fakty/kak-opredelit.html
Differences between white gold and silver
Sometimes even specialists find it difficult to evaluate a piece of jewelry and determine what material it is made of. Silver, white gold and platinum are very similar in appearance - that's a fact. If there is such a metal as white gold, why do we need silver? Because they are significantly different.
You will get the answer to the question of how silver differs from white gold by reading this article in our online store to the end.
How to distinguish silver from gold?
Silver is the whitest among natural precious metals. This is often used to make different types of jewelry. It has the highest electrical and thermal conductivity, and therefore lends itself well to processing.
In its pure form, this jewelry material is not used because of its softness, but only its alloys. Therefore, instead of sample 999, the following is used:
- 925 contains 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper;
- 958 - a standard introduced in England in the 17th century - 95.8% silver and 4.2% copper.
Oxidized silver, which during the oxidation process is coated with a thin layer of its own oxide. Thanks to this, it is protected from destructive factors and additionally acquires a characteristic antique appearance.
What is white gold, how to distinguish it from silver?
White gold, which is becoming more and more popular every day, does not actually exist. It is nothing more than its alloy with nickel, zinc and sometimes also palladium, which change color. Thanks to them, the material becomes harder and more resistant to damage. Jewelry made from it is usually coated with a thin layer of rhodium, which gives it extra depth.
The physical properties of white gold can vary because they are determined by the content of alloying impurities. Most of its jewelry appears silver because it is plated with a layer of rhodium.
There is white, uncentered gold, which has the correct color and shine. The most popular example is 0.585 or 14 ct. But such metal quickly tarnishes and the protective coatings wear off over time.
7 ways to distinguish white gold from silver at home
Fraudsters profit from buyers who do not know how to distinguish white gold from silver by eye. Based on the cost of the precious metal, they are usually sold alloys with copper. The result is a cheap and short-lived material. To avoid confusion or scams, learn how to tell the difference between white gold and silver.
- Checking the hallmark and hallmark of the purchased jewelry. White gold is available with a rectangular or spatula-shaped hallmark. If inlaid with precious stones, it has a purity of 750 or 585. The easiest way to deceive the buyer is to sell white gold with a lower purity. The imagination of scammers knows no bounds. It is popular today to sell pattern 333 (8 ct) chains with fasteners that have a much larger pattern attached to them. The seller draws the buyer's attention to the mark on the fastener and diverts attention away from the mark on the correct part of the product.
- A magnetic test will help you understand the difference between white gold and silver. This metal has absolutely no magnetic properties, so the object should not vibrate. Silver also does not react to magnets. If the jewelry is made from an alloy, it should also not react to a magnet because the metals used in alloys are also diamagnetic. However, just because a silver ring reacts to a magnet doesn't mean it should be thrown in the trash immediately. It may not be made from a palladium alloy. Some of its impurities are paramagnetic, that is, they react to a magnet.
- Color change. White gold has a slightly golden tint, silver has a cool white, even grayish tint. It is always brighter than silver thanks to rhodium, which is applied by electroplating, that is, using direct current. Rhodium-plated surfaces or just individual jewelry elements acquire a light silver/snow-white hue, making them resistant to blackening and acquiring a beautiful shine. Gold and silver do not change color. Tarnishing occurs when jewelry is plated only with gold. Their surface layer wears off, and the metal underneath begins to react with water, air and dirt, and then changes its properties. Unsightly discolorations appear on its surface.
- Calculating density is a reliable, but more complex method of checking the authenticity of metal. It lies in the fact that each substance has different density values. For gold this parameter is 19.3 g/cm3, for silver - 10.5 g/cm3. To check the density of the metal in a purchased product, you need to prepare a glass vessel with water, and then calculate its volume using known formulas. Ideally, it would be an ordinary glass container in the shape of a tube - a test tube. Its volume is a derivative of the height, the radius of the base squared and the number pi (3.14). Then you need to place the decoration in the container and calculate the difference between the displaced water in cubic centimeters. Then you need to divide the number obtained earlier, the volume of the container, by the volume of displaced water. The desired density will be obtained. If the result is about 19.3 g/cm³, then the jewelry is gold, even though it is silver in color. If you get 10.5 g/cm³, then it is silver.
- Hardness test. Since silver is softer than white gold, it can be determined using a simple experiment. You just need to draw a line on the surface of the paper with a little effort. If a mark remains on the sheet, then it is silver. White gold leaves no traces.
- Acid treatment. Silver oxidizes and tarnishes easily, unlike white gold. To confirm this, mix some water and vinegar in a small container into which you place the jewelry you are testing. If its surface turns gray, it is silver.
- Reaction to iodine. Dip a toothpick in iodine and draw a thin line on the inside of the product. Iodine will enter into a chemical reaction with silver, leaving a trace. It will not show up on white gold, and you can wipe it off with a paper napkin or a dry soft cloth.
Home methods are not 100% reliable. To make sure that your ring, earrings or bracelet are made of quality metal, you should take them to a professional jeweler.
Source: https://silvers.in.ua/otlichiya-belogo-zolota-ot-serebra.html
How to distinguish silver from white gold at home | SOKOLOV Magazine
You can only find pure gold in laboratory conditions, and you won’t find silver completely without impurities during the day: these two metals are too soft and capricious, which, believe me, would unpleasantly surprise you with their “anti-properties.”
To increase strength and wear resistance, so-called white gold uses an alloy - an admixture of silver, platinum, palladium, zinc or an acceptable amount of nickel. And copper is added to silver - otherwise your “pure” silver ring would fall apart before your eyes literally after the first wear.
Judge for yourself: silver is so soft and ductile that just 1 gram of it = as much as 2 kilometers of wire!
Appearances are deceptive? At first glance, the products of both silver and white gold are very similar, but if you know these simple rules, it becomes clear what kind of precious metal is in front of you, and the help of a professional jeweler may not be needed at all. And although we recommend turning to him, curiosity is not a vice, and sometimes it is a defense against the tricks of scammers
Source: https://sokolov.ru/blog/about-jewelry/precious-metals/silver-white-gold/
How to distinguish gold from fake
Gold is a precious metal that will never lose its relevance. It is from it that the largest number of jewelry is made, and gold products are the most popular among buyers.
However, today you can find a large number of fakes, and products made from this precious metal are no exception. Increasingly, there are cases when the percentage of valuable aurum in the declared sample is much smaller or is absent altogether.
Here are simple and accessible tips from jewelers that will help you distinguish gold from fake gold, gilding and costume jewelry at home.
Checking gold for authenticity
Here are some of the most common ways to check the authenticity of precious metals, which can be done independently, without the help of experts:
- Visual inspection Carefully examine the jewelry using a magnifying glass. Gold items have special markings confirming the authenticity of the jewelry. The sample of aurum or its mass in carats must be indicated. However, these days, scammers have learned to put a stamp on fakes, so this method cannot 100% guarantee the authenticity of the product.
- Sound test A very simple authentication test. You need to take the jewelry and throw it on a hard and smooth surface. For example, on the table. Real aurum sounds clear and resonant, reminiscent of crystal in sound. However, this method is not suitable for all jewelry - chains and bracelets cannot be checked this way.
- Testing with vinegar Pour a small amount of vinegar into a glass and lower the product there for 3-5 minutes. Fake jewelry will quickly take on a dull greenish tint. Real high-quality metal will not react to vinegar in any way.
- Magnetic test Take a real strong magnet that makes good contact with metal. Pass the magnet over the jewelry and see if it is attracted. If you are still attracted to the product, you can be completely sure that you have a fake in your hands. Genuine gold will never come into contact with a magnet.
- Application of nitric acid A counterfeit from a true precious metal can be determined using nitric acid. To do this, place the decoration in a clean metal container. Then, using a pipette, you need to carefully drop nitric acid. Real gold will not change its color, gilding takes on a milky tint, and ordinary metal becomes greenish. It should be noted that the test must be carried out on an inconspicuous area of the product: on the inside, on fasteners, etc.
- Testing with iodine As in the previous version, apply one drop of iodine to the inside of the jewelry. The fake one will quickly change its color to black or green, while the real aurum will remain unchanged.
- Lapis pencil test Lapis pencil is a medical product containing silver nitrate. Pre-moisten the product in water and draw a small strip. The result appears instantly - the fake “gold” immediately begins to oxidize and darken.
Jewelers will always help you evaluate the quality of gold jewelry; they identify counterfeits not only visually, but also with the help of special devices. Such verification is usually paid. But you will be absolutely sure that you are holding a piece of jewelry in your hands and not a fake.
Determining gold plating
Gold plating is a thin layer of pure gold that is applied to the surface of a product. The technique of gilding jewelry is quite simple: aurum is sprayed or rolled onto a substrate. The base metal can be medical steel, brass, copper or silver.
The thickness of the gold layer is not regulated, but the thicker the layer of precious metal, the longer your favorite chains, earrings or rings will serve their owner. As a rule, gilding does not have any specific marking.
For example, if the coating is applied to a silver substrate, then the mark on it will be corresponding to the silver.
It is quite difficult to distinguish gold from gilding without special examination, but there are several ways to help identify a fake. The first step is to carefully inspect the product. There should be no abrasions, stains or scratches on its surface. If such defects were found during inspection, then such jewelry is definitely not worth buying. Real gold jewelry has a bright shine and a perfectly smooth, uniform surface.
You can lightly scrape the jewelry in an inconspicuous area. The gold plating will come off a little while the gold will remain the same. The gilding also gradually comes off when the jewelry is worn, especially on the edges of the jewelry. Therefore, if the top coating has worn off or changed color, you can be sure that this is a gold-plated product.
There is also a fairly simple way to check at home. It is necessary to heat the product strongly, for example, over a stove burner, and then quickly lower it into cold water. High-grade gold will not change its color, but streaks may appear on gold-plated metal.
Gilding is also tested with silver nitrate, which is sold in any pharmacy. Treat the wetted surface of the product with a small amount of nitrate. The gilding will become dark and cloudy, while the gold will not react with it.
How to avoid fraud?
Do not buy jewelry in dubious stores, markets and stalls. Often such sellers sell fakes. Purchases should be made only in trusted jewelry stores, where all the relevant documents are available.
Don't look at the price tag of the product. A high price is not a guarantee of quality. Pay more attention to studying the gold standard, its external characteristics and the manufacturer of the jewelry.
You can ask the seller at the salon to check the jewelry for authenticity. Many large stores have special solutions and tools that allow you to determine the quality of the precious metal.
If you have already purchased a piece of jewelry and have any doubts about its authenticity, it is better to immediately contact a pawnshop or a qualified jeweler. Experts will quickly and for little money determine the metal from which the jewelry is made.
Source: https://www.petrogold.ru/blog/kak-otlichit-zoloto-ot-poddelki
How to distinguish white gold from silver and other metals
Many people believe that silver jewelry looks much more noble than gold jewelry. Especially when someone puts on tons of red gold, but this is already vulgarity. Not long ago, a new gold alloy, which has a white color, began to gain popularity. This new product will satisfy both gold lovers and fans of snow-white glitter.
Which is preferable?
Many people believe that silver jewelry looks much more noble than gold jewelry. Especially when someone puts on just tons of red gold, but this is already vulgarity. Not long ago, a new gold alloy, which has a white color, began to gain popularity.
This new product will satisfy both gold lovers and fans of snow-white shine. The beauty of white gold is that it does not look massive or flashy, and is also suitable for all ages. White color in jewelry can be suitable for both special occasions and everyday wear.
In addition, it will match with almost any wardrobe, skin and hair color.
Why buy white gold when you have silver?
Of course, silver is much cheaper than any gold alloy. Moreover, the metals look the same. But white gold alloy has its own advantages.
Properties of silver
The first place among the advantages of silver jewelry can be, of course, low cost and a fairly wide range of types of jewelry. Since ancient times, people believed that silver brings good luck to the wearer and protects from troubles. Some still claim that silver can have healing properties. In addition, when purchasing silver jewelry, you can in most cases be sure that it is not a fake. You can also safely wear silver every day.
But it is worth remembering the unpleasant fact that over time, silver oxidizes and acquires dark abrasions. This problem is considered the main disadvantage of metal.
Properties of gold
Again, even in ancient times, people regarded gold jewelry as a sign of a person’s wealth and high position. Of course, there were also signs associated with gold and belief in its magical properties. And the incomparable advantage of the white gold alloy is that it does not darken or tarnish over time. In addition, it has plasticity, which means there are a lot of opportunities to find original jewelry.
Rhodium plating of gold and silver
In order to increase the shine of the product, as well as to give it a greater degree of resistance to wear, many jewelers now coat gold and silver items with rhodium.
After this, distinguishing a white gold alloy from silver becomes an almost impossible task. In order not to be deceived by appearance, look at the product’s mark, as well as the shape of this mark.
Well, if doubts still remain, the only way to check is by chemical analysis of the composition of the product in a pawnshop.
In the selection of metal for jewelry, of course, there can be no advisers; this is a purely individual choice for everyone. But now you will know about the advantages and problems of each of the metals described, which means it will be easier to make this important choice.
2013-11-15
Source: https://siqnalrp.ru/stati-o-dragocennyh-metallah/216-kak-otlichit-beloe-zoloto-ot-serebra-i-drugih-metallov.html
What is the difference between white gold and silver and how not to confuse them?
Gold and silver are two noble metals that have been admired by women and men for many years and are a sign of wealth. You can emphasize your place in society with the help of expensive and beautiful jewelry, but how to distinguish white gold from silver and not buy a fake in a store?
Simple secrets
Silver is a softer metal than gold. Therefore, jewelry made from it often changes shape; gold is one of the strongest and most durable metals. Gold jewelry is difficult to bend, much less break.
White gold or silver: how to tell the difference?
Silver oxidizes; if you have doubts about the quality of the jewelry, you can take a clean sheet and run the product over it. Silver will leave a mark on the surface of the paper, but gold will not.
Silver is afraid of an acidic environment; to check the jewelry, just dilute a spoonful of vinegar in a glass of water and stir thoroughly. Then place the jewelry in the glass and wait a little. The silver will oxidize and the water will change color, becoming cloudy and opaque. If a white gold item gets into a glass of vinegar, then nothing bad will happen to it.
Silver can also be determined using iodine. A small strip of iodine is applied to the product; the silver jewelry will instantly become colored; it will not be possible to erase the stain from it. But nothing will happen to white gold. Iodine will not stain the product; it can be removed from the surface of the jewelry using a cotton swab.
How to recognize a fake in a store?
Silver and white gold are very similar, in most cases platinum is added to gold jewelry, but also other metals, including silver.
Choosing a product in the store
In a store, you can distinguish a fake from an expensive piece of white gold jewelry using:
- Visual inspection.
- Studying the sample.
- Inspection of precious stones.
Gold has a noble, cold shine that is difficult to compare with the shade of silver. This metal also has a shine, but it is not so glossy, but more matte. You can evaluate the decoration visually, but some manufacturers of products process them using radium.
Radium adds shine to silver items, so grading jewelry in this manner is unreliable.
Studying the sample will help you understand the decoration: for gold items it has the shape of a rectangle or is made in the shape of a spatula.
A sample made in the form of a barrel or a circle is put on silver.
White gold item with stones
One aspect to pay attention to is what metals are added to the white gold. If there are too many impurities, despite the sample, the decoration will be of poor quality.
White gold is most often combined with large pearls and diamonds; this “combination” is considered classic.
Over the years, silver changes color; it turns black when in contact with water and air. Therefore, if a piece of jewelry becomes covered with a dark or black coating too quickly, you should doubt its quality.
A jeweler will help you determine what metal the jewelry was made from. If the product is made of precious metal with a large number of impurities, then a specialist can easily recognize a fake. This verification method is considered one of the most reliable.
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Source: https://DedPodaril.com/zoloto/tipy/kak-otlichit-beloe-zoloto-ot-serebra.html
How to distinguish white gold from silver: 3 ways to check at home (visually, with vinegar and iodine), which is better
We greet you!
Silver and white gold are some of the most popular jewelry metals used to create jewelry. Outwardly they are very similar. In this regard, questions inevitably arise about how to distinguish white gold from silver and which metal to choose for yourself. Let's find out together.
What is white gold and silver
Silver is a precious metal mined from the depths of the earth. It is not used in its pure form. The reason for this is its high softness, due to which the jewelry quickly deforms. To increase strength, copper is added to the composition.
White gold is an alloy based on the classic yellow precious metal. The ligature in it creates the necessary shade.
How are these metals different?
When choosing jewelry from a particular metal, you need to know that they differ not only in color, but also in some characteristics, cost, and markings.
Composition, strength and weight
White gold is obtained by creating an alloy based on yellow metal and a ligature. The latter includes the following elements:
- platinum;
- silver;
- nickel;
- palladium;
- zinc.
Thanks to the alloy, gold acquires the necessary strength and wear resistance, but at the same time remains quite ductile.
Silver in jewelry is also used in the form of an alloy, to which copper, lead, antimony, oxygen, and bismuth are added. They provide the necessary strength and wear resistance of the alloy. However, if we compare the strength characteristics of precious metals, the advantage will be on the side of gold.
Different densities of metals affect the weight of products. Depending on the composition and standard, the density of white gold is 12.85-16.44 kg/m3, and that of silver is 10.49 kg/m3. Accordingly, a gold ring will be heavier than its silver counterpart, given the same size and shape.
Effect of acidic environment
One of the advantages of white gold over silver is that it is not afraid of acid. That's why one of the most popular ways to test jewelry at home is to dip it in a container of vinegar. If the product contains aurum, it will not change its color.
Silver jewelry will make the liquid cloudy. Because of this reaction, they must be removed before cleaning.
Appearance and markings
White gold has a varnished appearance, while silver metal has a matte finish. With the special lighting available in every jewelry store, the jewelry may shine equally, but when worn, the difference will become more noticeable.
Based on this, in a salon environment, the difference between metals can be determined solely through markings. In the first case, a stamp is placed on the jewelry with the designation of the sample (585 or 750), enclosed in a blade or rectangle. In the second case, the sample (800, 830, 875, 925, 960) fits into the barrel.
Difference between different purity grades
Precious metals have differences not only among themselves. Products made from seemingly the same metal will also have differences depending on the sample. It is determined by the percentage of the main precious metal in the jewelry. Due to the difference in proportions, the density of the alloy, melting point, and hardness change. GOST-approved options based on silver and gold can be seen in the tables below.
Graduation of gold-based alloys:
| Try | Mass fraction of component, % | |||||||
| Gold (Au) | Silver (Ag) | Platinum (Pt) | Palladium (Pd) | Nickel (Ni) | Copper (Cu) | Zinc (Zn) | Cadmium (Cd) | |
| 585 | 58,5 | 25,0 | – | Ost. | – | – | – | – |
| 58,5 | 28,2 | – | 9,5 | – | – | Ost. | – | |
| 58,5 | 27,5 | – | 9,5 | – | – | – | Ost. | |
| 58,5 | – | – | – | 12,0 | Ost. | 3,6 | – | |
| 750 | 75,0 | 14,5 | – | – | 7,0 | – | Ost. | – |
| 75,0 | 14,5 | – | Ost. | – | – | – | – | |
| 75,0 | 8,5 | – | 13,5 | Ost | – | – | – | |
| 75,0 | 6,5 | – | 13,5 | Ost. | – | – | – | |
| 75,0 | 8,5 | – | 8,0 | 3,5 | – | – | Ost. | |
| 75,0 | – | – | – | 7,0 | Ost. | 2,1 | – |
Graduation of silver-based alloys:
| Try | Compound, % | Impurities, no more than % | |||||
| Silver (Ag) | Copper (Cu) | Lead (Pb) | Iron (Fe) | Antimony (Sb) | Bismuth (Bi) | Oxygen (O) | |
| 800 | 80,0-80,5 | ost. | 0,005 | 0,13 | 0,002 | 0,002 | 0,01 |
| 830 | 83,0-83,5 | ||||||
| 875 | 87,5-88,0 | 0,004 | 0,10 | ||||
| 925 | 92,5-93,0 | ||||||
| 960 | 96,0-96,5 | 0,08 |
Differences in guest standards and quality
The chemical composition, as well as the physical characteristics of white gold and silver alloys are regulated by law. Each product must comply with GOST 30649-99 “Alloys based on precious metals for jewelry.”
Price and demand
The difference between precious metals that immediately catches your eye is the cost of the products. The price of both yellow and white precious metals is much higher for a number of reasons:
- There are fewer gold veins in nature than silver ones;
- complex production technology;
- unique properties of yellow metal.
What stones are suitable
White gold is eye-catching even without inserts. However, bright precious stones make jewelry especially attractive: sapphires, emeralds, diamonds. Also popular are products that harmoniously combine several types of metals, such as white and yellow gold.
Silver jewelry, as a rule, is made with inserts of semi-precious stones and minerals: onyx, iolite, agate, jade, chrysoprase, rauchtopaz, morion. However, occasionally jewelers create collections based on precious inserts, for example with emeralds.
What is the difference between white gold and silver if the products have been rhodium plated?
If gold jewelry has been rhodium-plated to obtain the desired shade and physical properties, it is impossible to visually distinguish it from silver. In this case, only the mark on the product can help determine the metal used.
If the markings on your existing jewelry are not trustworthy, you can take it for chemical analysis. During the inspection, the metal is tested with acid. The main disadvantage of this method is that a trace of the reagent may remain on the product.
Advantages and disadvantages of white gold and silver
Silver has several positive aspects, but the main one is its low cost. With a wide range of choices, you'll always find what you need. Silver is also believed to have magical and healing properties. It calms, brings good luck, heals and cleanses.
Unfortunately, this metal also has disadvantages. The main one is that silver darkens over time and oxidizes. Because of this, it is not recommended to wear it every day, especially during illness and stressful situations. If the jewelry has lost its original shine, it can be cleaned with a special liquid sold in jewelry stores.
Many people associate gold jewelry, including white jewelry, with prosperity and wealth. Every woman, wearing it, feels more confident. In addition, gold products are less likely to become deformed and lose their attractiveness. The exception is rhodium-plated jewelry, which must be renewed periodically.
Another advantage of gold over silver is its high degree of ductility, which allows you to create more sophisticated and sophisticated products from it.
Which metal jewelry is best to choose?
The debate between those who love white gold and those who prefer silver has been going on for years. The choice depends on the cost of the jewelry and the attractiveness of the metal for a particular person. The decisive factor may be the body’s tolerance to one or another element of the ligature.
For example, nickel, found in some white gold alloys, often causes allergic reactions and itching.
Recommendations for care, cleaning and storage
It should be remembered that silver is afraid of acid, so any contact should be prevented. This also applies to working with household detergents. Also, jewelry made of both metals should be removed before visiting the pool, bathhouse, or sauna.
Decoration that has become coated or contaminated can be easily cleaned with special compounds; some folk methods also help.
How to identify white gold at home
- Method 1: Take a blank piece of paper and decorations. Run each item one by one over the paper, applying a little force. Gold will leave it unchanged, but silver will leave a trace.
- Method 2. You will need a glass of vinegar. Place the product in it and leave it for a while. Silver under the influence of acid will change color or cause the liquid to become cloudy.
- Method 3. Drop iodine onto the decoration. In this case, the silver will remain neutral, and a dark spot will form on the gold.
Customer Reviews
Katya: “My parents gave me my first silver ring for my fifteenth birthday, giving in to my requests to have an “adult” piece of jewelry. As a result, I was satisfied, and in terms of money it was quite acceptable.”
Olya: “When I was choosing jewelry, I didn’t notice much difference between silver and white gold, and therefore I chose to go with the first option. I wear it rarely, so I can’t say that it loses its attractiveness or gets darker.”
Conclusion
When choosing between two precious metals, remember that the jewelry should first of all please you and suit the outfit and occasion. In this case, it will bring joy.
If you want to learn more about the properties and features of each metal, subscribe to our account on social networks.
Source: https://zhazhdazolota.ru/dragotsennosti/kak-otlichit-beloe-zoloto-ot-serebra
How to distinguish white gold from silver at home
The use of silver for making jewelry has a thousand-year history. White gold, on the contrary, began to be used in jewelry relatively recently. Its popularity has grown rapidly over the past decades. Visually, the two alloys are very similar to each other. The question arises: how to distinguish white gold from silver?
The importance of this issue cannot be underestimated, since there is a huge difference in cost - almost 10 times. The answer to this can be obtained by analyzing the physical properties, in which there are significant differences.
- This is useful: 875 standard, what is it - gold or silver
Color
Silver has a beautiful white color. White gold has a grayish, steely hue, more like platinum. Polished products look almost the same. But if you pay attention to the inside, you will find areas in the recesses that differ in color.
Shine
Both metals have the same reflectivity. This means that polished surfaces differ slightly in gloss. However, silver has low oxidation resistance. Under the influence of the external environment, it fades very quickly, losing its shine. Gold retains its original appearance much longer. The difference is noticeable even on new products in store windows. Unless, of course, they are rubbed every day, which is unlikely.
Hardness
There is a big difference in the hardness of the most popular jewelry alloys. 925 sterling silver is much softer than 585 gold. If the jewelry is used, then the silver looks more worn, there are many small scratches. Gold is much harder, so it retains its shine longer.
- : Simple methods to restore beauty to jewelry
If you try to scratch the surface with a metal object, it will slip on gold and leave a scratch on silver. The main thing is to apply the same force in both cases. You can also use the ancient “tooth test” method. You will definitely feel the difference in firmness.
If the jewelry is a ring, try bending it. This does not mean that it needs to be turned into an oval. You will immediately feel how easily silver can be deformed. It takes a lot more effort to bend gold. You should not use this method for very thin rings weighing 1 - 2 grams.
Sound
This method is also based on the difference in hardness of the two precious metals. If you throw a ring on a hard surface, the sound of silver will be dull, and that of gold will be more ringing. It should be taken into account that only rings of a simple shape, approximately equal in weight, preferably without stones, are suitable for the experiment.
Oxidation
The high value of the yellow precious metal is due to its unique ability to retain its original appearance for centuries. Silver turns black very quickly when exposed to the environment. If there is a black coating, the conclusion is clear - it is not gold. The following determination method is based on this feature.
- Read: Why does a silver cross on the body turn black?
Chlorine
A very reliable way to distinguish two metals is to treat them with chlorine-containing preparations. The most famous and easily accessible is “Whiteness”. If you apply a drop of liquid to silver and hold it for about a minute, a noticeable black spot will remain. Gold will not react in any way to such a reagent.
Archimedes' Law
The density of 585 white gold is higher - about 13 g/cm³, for silver this figure is approximately 10 - 10.5 g/cm³. Sufficiently accurate scales are required for determination. This method cannot be used for jewelry with stones and hidden voids, as they give a large error.
Let's look at all the stages in detail:
- We weigh the product;
- We tie it to a thread;
- Place a container of water on the scales and reset the scales;
- We lower the decoration into the water, it is important that it does not touch the bottom or walls;
- The result of the first weighing is divided by the value obtained in the liquid.
If the numbers obtained are close to 10, you have silver, if from 12.5 to 13, 585 gold.
Brand
An important feature in the determination is the presence of a stamp of a state control organization of the established form. Two main differences.
The standard numbers on the print are different:
- 375, 585, 750 – gold;
- 830, 875, 925, 960 – silver.
If for some reason the numbers on the stamp cannot be seen, then they can be distinguished by the shape of the imprint. For gold - a square (with a woman in a kokoshnik), combined with a rectangle (numerical value). The shape of the mark for silver is in the form of a barrel. The presence of a laser-applied sample is a guarantee of the quality of the jewelry; it is technically difficult to fake. It is much easier to imitate a mechanical mark, although this is a criminal offense.
- This you need to know: Gold 14 K – what standard is it
Technological progress makes its own adjustments to the use of the above determination methods. Rhodium plating is especially popular in modern jewelry production. With the help of this technology, the color of white gold is improved, it becomes more like platinum. Silver's hardness and oxidation resistance are significantly increased.
Visually, such decorations are difficult to distinguish. Methods of determining by color and gloss are losing relevance. If you use several methods simultaneously, in combination, the result will be guaranteed to be reliable.
Source: https://999proba.com/kak-otlichit-beloe-zoloto-ot-serebra/
How to distinguish white gold from silver?
White gold is a symbol of prosperity. Jewelry made from this alloy not only looks presentable, but is also an excellent investment. Gold of any kind is always in price, and its value is growing every year. However, unscrupulous sellers may pass off other alloys as white gold. Read what white gold is and how to distinguish it from silver.
White gold is actively used in jewelry. Designers of famous European brands create unique products from this alloy. In addition, white gold goes well with precious metal inserts. Such jewelry is very popular all over the world. For example, a white gold ring with a diamond is the most purchased jewelry for an engagement with a beloved.
White gold earrings are no less in demand . They look amazing. Especially if they have inserts of precious stones in combination with an evening dress. Read about how to wear earrings correctly here.
Bracelets made of white gold look elegant and stylish. This metal is neutral, so it will suit almost any look, without overshadowing the bright details, but effectively complementing it.
In general, white gold jewelry captivated women with its originality and attractiveness. We'll tell you how white gold is made, what it consists of, and how it differs from yellow and silver.
White gold: composition and purity
What is white gold? This material for jewelry is obtained by alloying ordinary gold with other metals - silver, platinum, nickel or palladium. These substances give gold its color. Rhodium plating is used for added shine and shine.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O2kKIk-CHG0
Alloys with nickel are practically not used, since this material can cause skin irritation and allergies in many people. In EU countries there is a ban on the use of nickel in jewelry. In Russia, the composition of white gold and other alloys is regulated by GOST 30649-99.
What standard should white gold have? It can be 585 or 750 samples. The first means that the alloy contains 585 mg of pure gold, the second is indicated if the jewelry has inserts of precious stones.
How to distinguish white gold products from silver?
White gold jewelry is similar in appearance to silver jewelry. How can you tell them apart? There are several ways:
- If you look closely you can see that silver has a more matte tone than white gold. Despite the substances included in the alloy, gold by definition shines, which cannot be said about silver.
- Pay attention to the sample. Silver, as a rule, is 925, white gold – 585, 750.
- White gold is denser than silver. Pass the product along a sheet of paper. Silver will leave a mark, but gold will not.
- White gold does not dissolve in acid. If you dip the item in vinegar, the silver will tarnish and the liquid will become cloudy. Nothing will happen to gold. Of course, if a minimum of impurities were used in the material.
- Spray the decoration with iodine. High-quality white gold will not react and the iodine will easily be wiped off the product. There will be a clear mark on the silver that cannot be easily cleaned.
Like products made from any other material, white gold jewelry loses its original appearance over time. We'll tell you how to clean white gold at home.
Despite the differences in composition, white gold is cleaned in the same way as silver. You can buy a specialized product for cleaning jewelry or use proven traditional methods.
You can clean white gold with soapy water. Shampoo, dishwashing detergent or liquid soap will do. The jewelry is soaked in the solution for half an hour and then cleaned with an old toothbrush. Then you should rinse it in running water and wipe with a dry soft cloth.
The shine of white gold products will be restored by a solution of ammonia and water in equal proportions. Jewelry should be soaked in the solution for an hour, then rinsed and polished.
It is not recommended to clean white gold at home if you find damage to the item. In this case, you should contact a jeweler who will bring the jewelry into proper shape.
Source: https://www.lux-fair.ru/kak-otlichit-beloe-zoloto-ot-serebra/
How to distinguish white gold from silver: ways to distinguish, what to choose
Jewelry is designed to emphasize your individuality and create a unique image. However, expensive jewelry does not always look better on a person than a cheaper option. This is especially true for gold - sometimes it looks too provocative, which cannot be said about silver - a pleasant color, inexpensive price makes this jewelry accessible to everyone.
Recently, white gold has become increasingly popular. It is practically no different from the silver version, emphasizes the stateliness of the owner and looks beautiful on all women.
How to distinguish white gold from silver?
To avoid unwanted costs and eliminate fraud, you need to be able to distinguish between a gold product and its silver counterpart.
Ask the seller if the jewelry is rhodium plated. Jewelers plate both gold and silver items with rhodium to increase their durability and provide a long-lasting shine.
If there is such a coating, it will be very difficult for you to outwardly distinguish silver from gold.
Without rhodium plating, white gold jewelry has a slight yellow tint compared to silver. This shimmer is golden and barely visible, as befits a real gold product. However, it is better to buy a product coated with rhodium - and your jewelry will serve you for a long time.
How to distinguish silver jewelry from gold if it is plated with rhodium?
Most often, jewelers offer jewelry that is already plated with rhodium. How to determine that this is white gold and not silver jewelry? The answer is simple - hallmark tags for gold and silver products differ in shape. The tag for white gold jewelry will be rectangular or in the shape of a spatula, while for silver it will be in the form of a barrel.
Do not buy products without a sample tag - you may become a victim of a scammer.
Which product should you choose - gold or silver?
Let's look at the pros and cons of each metal.
Silver products - pros and cons
Silver products have a low price. Anyone can afford them. Silver jewelry is really difficult to distinguish from gold, so it will also perfectly decorate any woman, regardless of the color of her hair or skin.
One of the disadvantages is the darkening of the metal over time.
Due to oxidation, the metal acquires a dark tint and the beautiful shine disappears. It has been established that darkening occurs faster if a person is in a depressed state - the metal is affected by processes in the body. However, this darkening can be removed using ammonia diluted with water 1 to 10.
Gold products - pros and cons
Real white gold jewelry is much more expensive than silver jewelry. Not everyone will be able to purchase such a piece of jewelry, so white gold first of all shows the stateliness of the person who wears it. It emphasizes not only your individuality, but also your financial condition.
Gold is a soft metal, lends itself well to jewelers and gives you the opportunity to decorate the product with a personalized inscription.
Gold items have a magical property - it reduces the owner’s heart rate, calms him down, and relieves fatigue.
In addition, it is worth noting that white gold will serve you for a very long time - it does not darken, does not crack, and its shine will delight you for many years.
There is only one downside to gold items: they are expensive.
So what should you choose? The answer to this question is different for everyone. Some people prefer silver, others prefer white gold. In general, both of these metals deserve your attention, each of them is beautiful in its own way, each of them can decorate any of your outfits and make you irresistible.
Source: http://VseoZolote.ru/interesno/beloe-zoloto-i-serebro.html
How to distinguish white gold from silver yourself? — Natural Treasures
White gold began to be considered a sign of nobility and good taste in secular circles in the 20s of the last century, especially in combination with black pearls and diamonds.
In our country, interest in it flared up with renewed vigor at the end of the century, and white gold jewelry to this day holds a high bar in the jewelry rating.
But how to distinguish it from cheaper, but equally light silver, if the diamond looks equally bright in both?
Note: You will not find pure gold in the jewelry industry - it is too soft for making jewelry. Therefore, copper, nickel, silver, etc. are added to it. The color depends on which metals are added, and the sample depends on their quantity. The higher the content of gold itself, the higher the fineness.
Noble shine
Silver and white gold are indeed very similar. How? Glitter, color and purpose. It was white metals that were considered the ideal setting for diamonds in the 1920s.
At first, an alloy of platinum and silver was used for this, since in its pure form it is difficult for jewelry processing. But silver tends to darken, and expensive items lost their attractiveness.
A solution was found experimentally: soft gold was mixed with different metals - the same silver, platinum, palladium and cheaper nickel.
Attention! A typical alloy of 18k white gold is: 750 parts gold, 55 parts copper, 145 parts nickel and 50 parts zinc.
Nickel is a fairly strong allergen and the cause of dermatitis. In 2000, in the countries of the European Union, out of concern for people’s health, this metal was banned from being added to white gold. Outside of Europe, nickel is still actively used.
Such a different white gold
It may vary. Surprised? But it is so. “White gold” can hide a whole range: from pale yellow to reddish. These “nuances” of color depend on the composition of the alloys with which the yellow metal is “diluted.” And to achieve a pure shine, the products are coated with a platinum group metal – rhodium.
It, like platinum, is much more expensive than gold and gives products that same noble color. About color nuances: if the product contains platinum, then you will see a steel-white shine. Palladium will give a slightly lower intensity.
Nickel will give a slight yellowish tint, but if you have jewelry with rhodium in your hands, you will notice a subtle bluish coldness in the shade.
- By the way! “Alchemists” (in the good sense of the word) from the jewelry industry have learned to make brown, gray, pink, green and even purple gold! It's all about the metals that are added to the pure product. Recently, black gold, obtained by adding cobalt and chromium, followed by laser processing and deep deposition of amorphous carbon, has been gaining popularity.
White glow: how to distinguish two metals
How to determine what is in front of you: an expensive piece of jewelry or a silver replica? It is quite difficult to visually distinguish whether what you have in front of you is white gold or silver, especially if the manufacturer has plated the silver item with rhodium. First of all, we look at the sample and mark.
White gold can be 585 or 750, silver is rarely below 800, and even then this is considered low-grade, has a yellowish tint and is used mainly for the production of tableware (925 is the most popular for jewelry).
The mark will also indicate the difference: on silver jewelry it usually has rounded sides, on gold jewelry it is rectangular. These differences are valid if you purchase jewelry in boutiques or salons, and not from hand. In the latter case, you can run into scammers: the “craftsmen” have learned to interrupt the stamps and draw the sample they need.
One effective way is to look into a pawn shop, if there is one nearby. They usually have instruments that determine the density of the metal.
If you still decide to take a risk, have already bought jewelry (or it was given to you), and doubts do not allow you to sleep peacefully, then open a home chemical laboratory.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-zO_poAblmw
Silver oxidizes: put the jewelry in vinegar, if it darkens, then this is not a luxurious piece of jewelry, but its brother.
Iodine will also cause the product to darken, but white gold can easily be removed from a dark iodine stain by rubbing it with a flannel cloth. We wish you to shine in real jewelry!
Source: https://22av.ru/osobennosti/kak-otlichit-beloe-zoloto-ot-serebra-samostoyatelno.html
Properties and distinctive features of white gold and silver
Silver has been used to make jewelry for a very long time - many centuries. White gold came into fashion relatively recently, but its popularity has grown rapidly over the past few years. Visually, these two alloys are very similar, but differ significantly in price. Therefore, the question often arises: how to distinguish white gold from silver?
White gold jewelry is incredibly sophisticated and elegant. This shade of the alloy is provided by the ligature: silver, palladium and platinum are used for this. Previously, the white gold alloy also contained nickel, but now they are trying to avoid this, since allergies to this metal are very widespread.
How to distinguish white gold from silver?
Modern fashion is addicted to white gold jewelry due to its ability to be combined with any accessories and look good with the most expensive stones - diamonds.
Visual differences between white gold and silver
If there is a question about purchasing jewelry, then it is possible to consider only methods that can distinguish white gold and silver without additional means:
1) White gold looks as if it has a lacquer coating, silver looks matte and has heavier undertones. Gold also has some features that give it a specific shine that are not characteristic of silver. And even if they may look the same on a shelf in a jewelry store, if you change the lighting or put jewelry on a person, you can notice the difference.
2) Silver changes its color as it is worn. Its main disadvantage is that it oxidizes under the influence of hydrogen sulfide from the air and darkens over time. And although such plaque is not so difficult to remove, it can still be noticeable. In addition, it can also turn yellow, fade and become deformed over time.
3) White gold or silver will help determine the hallmark. Any untested product cannot be sold - this is a violation of the Criminal Code. If there is no hallmark on the product, then most likely it is not made of noble metal at all, it just has a golden coating.
Gold and silver have a different stamp from the state assay office, they both contain an image of a girl in a kokoshnik with her head turned to the right, but have a different outline shape. The mark for silver is outlined in an oval with straight sides on the sides; the mark for gold has the shape of a spatula. The samples also differ:
- 375, 585, 750 - gold;
- 830, 875, 925, 960 - silver.
925 is a silver standard
The most technically difficult to forge is a mark made with a laser; it has thin contours, is smooth and not very deep, which is why it tends to wear off over time.
4) The price of white gold jewelry should be significantly higher than the price of silver jewelry. If this is not the case, then this is a reason to think about it.
How to test white gold at home?
1) If the product has already been purchased or the owner got it in some other way, then a more in-depth analysis can be carried out at home. To do this, you need to have another product of one type or another for comparison.
2) Everyone knows that silver alloy is much softer than gold alloy. Knowing this can be used to determine the alloy from which the jewelry is made. How to determine white gold in this way? In order to do this, you will need a piece of paper. Run the decorations over the paper using a little force. Since gold is a strong alloy, the paper will remain white; if it is silver, then a trace will remain on the paper.
3) Another fundamental difference between these two metals is chemical inertness. Gold is more inert than silver and does not react even with acids, so you can check whether the alloy is really made of gold in an acidic environment.
To experiment, you need to take a glass of vinegar and place the decoration there. The silver jewelry will change color. If after the jewelry was placed in a glass of vinegar, nothing happened, then you have gold.
If the water becomes cloudy, but the decoration remains the same, then it is completely fake.
4) Another reliable way is to expose both metals to substances containing chlorine. This could be, for example, chlorine bleach. The reaction with chlorine will cause the silver to darken: if you apply it to the product, you will notice a small stain after a minute. Gold will not change color.
5) Another way to test gold is by density. 585 gold has a density of about 13 g/cm3, for silver this figure is 10-10.5, and 750 gold has a density of about 15.5.
Thus, having jewelry that does not have stones or hidden voids, as well as accurate scales, you can weigh and determine exactly what alloy you are dealing with. To do this, first weigh the jewelry simply on a scale, and then in liquid.
In this case, the product should not touch the walls of the vessel in which it is contained. We divide the first value by the second and get the density.
6) And the last way is iodine. If you drop iodine on gold, it will leave a stain on it, since it is one of the few elements with which it reacts; there will be no such stain on silver.
White gold rings
Jewelry made of white gold, unlike silver, will delight you for a long time. It will not darken, will not become cloudy, and has all the same properties as ordinary gold. Thanks to its plasticity, it allows jewelers to create the most unusual and sophisticated products.
It happens that products are coated with an even more expensive metal - rhodium. Such products are more expensive, and in this case it will be possible to distinguish white gold from silver only by the mark.
If the question is about what is better to choose, then you need to weigh the pros and cons. Gold items are purchased for everyday wear. It is better to take silver for one-time appearances, so it will be easier to keep track of it. In addition, for the same money that you would buy one piece of white gold, you can buy several in silver. Then you will have the opportunity to experiment with your image or, instead of one product, buy a set at once.
Source: https://HochuZoloto.com/sovety/kak-otlichit-beloe-zoloto-ot-serebra.html
