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How to Tell If a Metal Is Gold or Brass

Gold has historically been considered a precious metal, and one of its primary uses has been to make jewelry and decorative objects. Brass can have a similar look to gold, but it is substantially cheaper. A magnet can often determine the difference between gold or brass, as brass will be attracted and gold will not. But when in doubt, a simple acid test can confirm whether an object is gold.

Things You'll Need

Magnet
Muriatic acid

Instructions

- 1
  Use a magnet. Brass is magnetic, so a magnet will attach to it. Gold is not magnetic, although gold may be alloyed with other metals that are magnetic. Generally gold--even low-quality gold--will not be attracted to a magnet. If the object is attracted to the magnet, it is very likely not gold.
- 2
  Look for markings on the piece. Often, pieces that are gold will be labeled 10K, 14K, 18K or 24K. The K refers to the karat, or the purity of the gold. This is a good indicator that a piece may be gold. Brass items may have markings saying Brass.
- 3
  Use an acid test. There are various acid tests on the market for testing gold. If you still are not sure after testing with a magnet and looking for a marking, make a small scratch in a protected area that is not readily visible and apply a drop of the testing acid you select. For example, with Schwerter's testing acid, brass items will turn dark brown, while gold will have no reaction.

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