How to distinguish the material of jewelry? Generally, how many types of materials are there for jew
To identify the material of jewelry, you can make a comprehensive judgment by observing the logo, physical characteristics, professional tools and certificates:
1. Common material identification methods
Silver Jewelry
999 Silver (Pure Silver): Soft texture, easy to scratch, engraved with "S999" logo, suitable for traditional craft jewelry。
Oxidation characteristics: It tends to turn black after long-term wear, but can be polished to restore its luster。
Alloy and plating jewelry
Gold/Silver Jewelry: The base is usually copper, with a thin layer of precious metal electroplated on the surface. After wear, the dark yellow (copper) or grayish white (alloy) inside is exposed.。
Titanium steel (stainless steel)
High hardness, strong corrosion resistance, cold gray, heavy, often mirror-finished or brushed, non-magnetic。
Gold Jewellery
K Gold: Such as 18K gold (75% gold content), engraved with "AU750" or "G18K", with various colors (white, yellow, rose gold), and higher hardness than pure gold。
2. Professional Identification Methods
View the certificate
Key Metrics: The certificate must indicate density, refractive index, hardness (Mohs hardness) and internal characteristics (such as inclusions)。
For example:
The density of silver is about 10.5 g/cm³ and that of copper is 8.96 g/cm³.
Diamond has a hardness of 10 (Mohs hardness) and can scratch glass (hardness 5-6)。
Tool-assisted detection
Magnet test: Titanium steel is non-magnetic, and the alloy may contain iron elements which will be absorbed.
Acidic reagents: Professional testing fluid can distinguish the purity of K gold (use with caution).
Optical characteristics observation
Luster and Fire: Real diamonds have intense fire, while imitations (such as cubic zirconia) have a dull luster; natural jade is mostly oily or glassy, while synthetics are too bright.
3. Pitfall Avoidance Guide
Beware of low price traps: Alloy gold-plated jewelry has low cost, but is prone to fading and allergies, so people with sensitive skin should choose carefully。
Verify merchant description: The claimed "titanium steel" is actually 304 stainless steel, and the claimed "silver-plated gold" may be based on copper。
Request an authority certificate：Certificates from institutions such as the National Testing Center (NGTC) and GIA will clearly indicate the material, processing technology, and characteristics of natural inclusions.
Appendix: Common material comparison table
hint: Daily maintenance to avoid contact with perfume and sweat, sealed storage can extend the life of the jewelry
