White gold is a stunning and luxurious choice for engagement rings, wedding bands, and fine jewelry. However, with so many look-alike metals on the market, many customers ask:
“How can I tell if white gold is real?”
At KRK Jewels, we believe that informed buyers make confident decisions. Here’s how to identify authentic white gold—and what to watch out for.
1. Look for the Hallmark Stamp
Genuine white gold jewelry will have a hallmark or stamp indicating its gold content. Common stamps include:
10K, 14K, or 18K (for karat purity)
417 (10K), 585 (14K), or 750 (18K) in European markings
Additional markings like “WG” (White Gold)
Where to look: Inside the ring band, on a clasp, or on the back of a pendant or earring.
Note: If the piece has no stamp at all, it may be fake or needs professional testing.
2. Test with a Magnet
Gold—regardless of color—is not magnetic. Try placing a magnet near the jewelry:
If it sticks, it may contain other metals like nickel, steel, or fake alloys.
If it doesn’t, that’s a good sign—but not a guarantee of authenticity.
This is a basic test and should be followed with others for accuracy.
3. Inspect the Color and Wear
White gold is naturally a pale yellowish color and is usually rhodium-plated to give it a bright, silvery-white finish.
Over time, the rhodium can wear off, revealing a slightly warm or yellow tone underneath.
Fake white gold or cheaper metals often have a flat gray or silver tone that doesn’t change over time.
If your ring is turning brassy or green, it’s likely not real white gold.
4. Have It Professionally Tested
If you’re unsure, the most reliable way to confirm white gold is through professional testing. At KRK Jewels, we offer:
Acid testing – Using gold testing solutions to verify purity.
Electronic gold testers – Non-invasive tools that provide quick and accurate readings.
X-ray fluorescence (XRF) – Advanced lab-level testing that determines the exact metal composition.
Explore Our White Gold Jewelry
5. Weight and Feel
Gold is a dense and heavy metal. If a piece of jewelry feels unusually light or flimsy, especially when compared to similar pieces, it may be fake or hollow.
Authentic white gold has a solid, balanced feel—even in delicate designs.
6. Price Too Good to Be True?
White gold is a precious metal, so if the price seems unreasonably low, it probably isn’t genuine. Always buy from a reputable jeweler and request certification or authenticity documentation.
Trust KRK Jewels for Authentic White Gold Jewelry
At KRK Jewels, we use only certified 14K and 18K white gold in our collections, handcrafted to the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Each piece is hallmarked and comes with a certificate of purity, so you can shop with total confidence.
Browse our genuine white gold jewelry at KRK jewels or visit our showroom to speak with one of our jewelry experts.