How can you tell if beads are real gold?

To tell if beads are real gold, you can try placing a magnet near them. If you observe an attraction, your beads are either gold-plated or crafted out of base metal, as solid gold alloys used to produce jewelry aren't usually magnetic. Hallmarks on a clasp may also help you identify real gold. Some makers will use the abbreviation “K” preceded by a number, such as “14K” or “18K,” to signify real gold. Others use a three-digit number representing the gold percentage in the alloy. For example, “585” indicates that a piece is 14-karat gold, while “750” indicates 18-karat gold. If you need further assistance identifying the material, a certified appraiser or experienced jeweler can help. Shop a wide range of gold jewelry on 1stDibs.