If you’ve ever wondered “how do jewellers know if gold is real?”, you’re not alone.
At Sapphire Jewellers Coventry, this is one of the most common questions we get, especially from customers looking to sell gold, jewellery, or scrap precious metals.
The truth is, there isn’t just one method.
We combine over 50 years of hands-on experience in the jewellery trade, with modern XRF technology and traditional testing methods, to give you the most accurate valuation possible.
What Is XRF Testing?
XRF (X-ray fluorescence) is a modern method used to analyse the composition of metals.
It allows us to quickly identify:
- The gold purity (9ct, 14ct, 18ct, etc.)
- The percentage of gold and other metals
- Whether an item may be solid, mixed, or plated
It’s fast, non-destructive, and gives results in seconds, making it an incredibly useful tool.
Why XRF Alone Isn’t Enough
Here’s something most people won’t tell you.
No single test is perfect.
While XRF is highly advanced, it can sometimes be influenced by:
- Heavy gold plating
- Surface composition versus core metal
- Mixed or layered materials
That’s why at Sapphire Jewellers Coventry, we never rely on just one method.
Our Approach, Experience and Multiple Testing Methods
With over 50 years of family experience in the jewellery trade, we use a combination of techniques to ensure accuracy:
- Magnet test for a quick instant result
- XRF testing, for fast, detailed analysis
- Acid testing, to verify true gold content beneath the surface
- Visual inspection and expertise, built over decades
- Hallmark verification, where applicable
This layered approach means:
- We don’t guess
- We don’t rely purely on machines
- We verify results properly
The Technology We Use: Hitachi X-MET 8000
We use the Hitachi X-MET 8000, a professional-grade handheld XRF analyser trusted across the jewellery industry.
This allows us to:
- Deliver instant readings
- Analyse multiple metals at once
- Support our traditional testing methods with precise data
But again, it’s a tool, not a shortcut.
The real value comes from knowing how to interpret the results properly.
Do Hallmarks Guarantee Gold?
Not always.
We regularly see:
- Worn or unclear hallmarks
- Imported jewellery without UK hallmarking
- Incorrect or misleading stamps
Time and time again we've had customers bring items of jewellery with generic stamps (375 or 750). These alone are not full UK hallmarks and cannot be solely used to determine the authenticity and purity of the gold.
Please be aware when purchasing gold (and even silver) there are a lot of fake items circulating currently. Just because there's a stamp, it doesn't mean it's genuine!
That’s why every item is properly tested using our combined approach, not just taken at face value.
Is Testing Safe for My Jewellery?
Yes, and we choose the right method depending on the item.
- XRF is completely non-invasive
- Acid testing is carefully applied and controlled
- All testing is done with experience and precision
The main issue people have with acid testing are the marks this leaves on the jewellery, acid reactions change the surface colour of the gold. However, at Sapphire Jewellers, we carry out almost all our professional polishing on site in our Coventry store. So, in the case that we need to apply acid to test jewellery, we will only do this in a place we can polish out afterwards. This ensures 100% accuracy with no visible marks afterwards.
In most cases, we will use a combination of acid and XRF testing (unless requested not to by the customer). This way, we can 100% guarantee the authenticity and purity of your jewellery. Your jewellery is handled professionally at all times.
Here, you can see the results of an XRF test. This bracelet is comprised of: Au (chemical symbol for gold = 50.5%, Cu (Copper) = 39.5%, Zn (Zinc) = 6.3% & Ag (Silver) = 3.3%.
Why Choose Sapphire Jewellers Coventry?
At Sapphire Jewellers Coventry, we’ve built our reputation on trust, transparency, and experience.
When you sell gold to us, you benefit from:
- Over 50 years of jewellery expertise
- Multiple professional testing methods, not guesswork
- Advanced XRF technology using the Hitachi X-MET 8000
- Fair, up-to-date market-based valuations
- Honest advice with no pressure to sell
- Over 570 5* Google Reviews - 4.9 Rated Overall (Highest amongst all Coventry jewellers at time of publication)
We combine old-school knowledge with modern tools, the way it should be done.
One Final Thing to Note!
At Sapphire Jewellers, we only use acid and XRF testing for jewellery and other gold and silver items. For specialised investment grade metals such as gold bars and coins we use an alternative specialised device by Sigma Metalytics. These machines are widely regarded as the best in the industry for gold and silver bullion. This ensures every coin and bar we purchase is not either plated or filled.
Looking to Sell Gold in Coventry?
If you’re searching for:
- Where to sell gold Coventry
- Gold buyers near me
- How much is my gold worth
Visit Sapphire Jewellers Coventry for a professional, transparent valuation.
Want more information on how to sell your jewellery safely in Coventry and make sure you get a good deal? Read our blog post here.
We’ll test your items properly and explain everything clearly, so you know exactly what you have.
