How Can You Tell if Your Alaskan Silver Jewelry Is Authentic?
For jewelry wearers, it is important to know if the jewelry piece they are wearing is real or fake. It can be disheartening for people to realize that the silver jewelry piece that they have been wearing is actually not real. That is why you must be aware of how real silver looks before entering a jewelry store in Alaska so you do not end up purchasing a fake one.
There is no doubt that Alaska is one of the safest and most trustworthy places to buy jewelry. However, cheaters can be everywhere and it is important that we do not get caught in their trap. So, before visiting a jewelry retail store in Alaska, you must always do a little background check of the jewelry store.
However, we have brought you some ways you can test if your silver jewelry is authentic.
Check for Hallmarks
Checking for hallmarks is one of the most reliable ways to identify genuine silver jewelry. These tiny, stamped markings are most commonly found on the inside of a ring, bracelet clasp, or the back of a pendant. Hallmarks frequently include information about the purity and origin of the metal. In the case of sterling silver, you can see “925,” which indicates that the piece is 92.5% pure silver, with the remaining 7.5% made up of other metals for strength.
Conduct the Magnet Test
You can tell if it is real silver by performing a basic magnet test, as pure silver is not magnetic. Keep a small, strong magnet close to your jewelry. If it is drawn to the magnet, it is not made of pure silver. Keep in mind that some jewelry may contain small non-silver magnetic components, such as clasps or springs, so don’t rely solely on this method.
The Nitric Acid Test
The nitric acid test is a useful method, but it should be used carefully. Apply a small drop of nitric acid to a hidden part of your jewelry, such as the back. If the metal changes color to a creamy color, it is most likely that you have purchased it from an authentic silver jewelry store. If it turns green, however, it could be a base metal or silver-plated item. Handle nitric acid with extreme caution, and wear gloves and eye protection.
Check for Soldering Marks
Examine the seams and joints of your silver jewelry for solder marks. Silver solder is typically used to join genuine silver pieces. If you notice seams that appear to be made of a different metal or solder that is a different color, this could be a sign of a fake piece.
Seek a Professional Appraisal
If in doubt, seek a professional appraisal from a reputable jewelry store in Alaska near you. They have specialized tools to test the authenticity of your silver jewelry. Moreover, after approval, the jewelry shop can provide you with written documents that prove the authenticity of your jewelry piece and make it easy for you to sell it if you want to.
You should only buy silver jewelry from an Alaskan jewelry shop that has been approved and certified by reliable gemological laboratories. They will always provide you with authentic jewelry in Alaska.