Fool’s gold, also called pyrite, got its name because it’s almost identical to authentic gold at first glance. Although the two might look similar, they vary greatly in value. If you’re planning on buying or selling gold nuggets, coins, or jewelry, you should test them first to see whether they’re the real thing. Here are a few ways to spot fool’s gold.

Is Your Gold the Real Thing? Here’s How to Test It

Formations

Pyrite forms in clusters with sharply defined edges and straight striations on its surfaces. While gold nuggets can also take a crystalline form, they usually have softer edges and no striations.

Streak Test

Find an unglazed ceramic surface, like a plate, and drag your item across it just hard enough to leave a mark. Real gold creates a yellow-colored streak, while pyrite leaves a greenish-black mark behind. Be aware that this test will scratch your item, so if you think it’s valuable, try a non-destructive test instead.

Weight

Real gold is extremely dense — more than 19 grams per cubic centimeter. Pyrite is just over a quarter as dense, at five grams per cubic centimeter. You may be able to feel the difference just by weighing the items in your hand. To be sure, a pawn shop will be able to calculate your item’s density and determine if your piece is fool’s gold or the real thing.

Hardness

Gold is a very soft metal, while fool’s gold is harder. Copper falls between the two on the hardness scale, making it a good surface to test on. Pyrite will scratch the copper, but gold won’t. Once again, be aware that this test can damage your item, so if you’re planning on selling gold pieces, practice caution.

If you’re interested in selling gold items or want to test if the nuggets you’ve found are the real thing, visit Coins & Stuff in High Point, NC. Voted best prices in the Triad area by TV8, this pawnbroker offers unbeatable deals when buying or selling gold, jewelry, silver, rare coins, guns, and other items of value. Visit the website to browse their inventory, or call (336) 885-5323 to speak to a friendly associate today.