With the growing popularity of gold and gemstone jewellery in Sri Lanka, many buyers face one major concern: authenticity. Unfortunately, the market sometimes sees counterfeit jewellery that looks real but lacks true value. To protect your investment, it’s important to know how to identify genuine jewellery from fakes.
1. Check the Hallmark on Gold Jewellery
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Real gold jewellery in Sri Lanka is usually stamped with a hallmark such as 22K, 18K, or 14K.
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Look for these tiny engravings on the inside of rings or clasps of necklaces.
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Fake jewellery often misses these marks or uses misleading symbols.
2. The Magnet Test
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Gold and silver are not magnetic.
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If your jewellery gets pulled by a magnet, it’s likely fake or mixed with other metals.
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This is a quick at-home test before making a big purchase.
3. Weight and Feel
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Real gold jewellery feels heavier than fake counterparts.
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Counterfeit pieces may look shiny but are often lightweight.
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A jeweller’s scale can help confirm the correct weight.
4. Gemstone Authenticity Checks
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Sri Lanka is famous for sapphires and other gems, but synthetic stones are common.
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Genuine gemstones usually have tiny natural imperfections, while fakes look “too perfect.”
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A certified gem lab report is the best proof of authenticity.
5. Professional Testing
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Acid tests, X-ray fluorescence, or jeweller appraisals are the most reliable methods.
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If you have doubts, always seek an expert’s opinion.
Buying jewellery is both an emotional and financial investment. By learning how to check for hallmarks, weight, magnetism, and gemstone quality, you can protect yourself from counterfeits. Always choose reliable jewellers in Sri Lanka for peace of mind.