The acid test explained, how we confirm gold and platinum at your table

The acid test explained, how we confirm gold and platinum at your table

• What the acid test is and how it confirms gold purity
• The kit: touchstones, needles and four acid bottles
• Step-by-step: testing a 9ct ring
• Step-by-step: testing white gold and rose gold
• Testing 18ct, 22ct and 24ct pieces
• Can you acid-test platinum? What you need to know
• Why we test in front of you, never away from the table
• What an acid test cannot tell us, and why we cross-check with hallmarks
• Safety: how Chris handles nitric acid in someone’s kitchen
• Conclusion and how to arrange a test
• Frequently asked questions

I’m Chris Molyneaux from Adelaide Mobile Gold Buyers, bringing you expert insights into the gold acid test right at your kitchen table. With close to a decade of experience, I perform the acid test on gold and platinum items to provide a transparent and reliable purity confirmation. Nothing leaves your sight during the whole process, so you can trust the results and feel confident about your jewellery’s value.

What the acid test is and how it confirms gold purity

How acid testing works in simple terms

The acid test is a straightforward method that uses nitric acid to assess the quality of gold by observing its reaction. When nitric acid touches a gold sample, the amount and speed at which the mark dissolves indicates how pure the gold is. Lower karat gold or plated items usually dissolve quickly, while higher karats resist the acid longer.

In brief: Acid testing lets us identify whether your gold is genuine and estimate its purity right on the spot, making it perfect for home or mobile testing.

This method has been trusted globally, including by respected institutions such as the Perth Mint. Also, it aligns with consumer protection principles advocated by agencies like the ACCC, ensuring you receive honest and clear service.

The kit: touchstones, needles and four acid bottles

Tools for precise gold acid test Adelaide needs

To perform a thorough test, I bring my trusted kit, refined through years of experience. It includes:

• Touchstones (scratch stones): Smooth, dark stones on which I rub your gold to leave a visible mark for testing.
• Testing needles: Fine metal needles used to lightly scrape your item, causing no damage but creating a test sample.
• Four acid bottles: Each bottle is tailored for different karat levels , 9ct, 14ct, 18ct, and 22ct , to make the reactions clear and reliable.

Each acid type reacts uniquely depending on karat value, aiding me to confirm your item’s purity accurately.

Bullet list: acids and their uses

• 9ct acid: Designed to test 37.5% gold pieces.
• 14ct acid: Best for 58.5% gold items.
• 18ct acid: For 75% gold purity checks.
• 22ct acid: Used on 91.6% gold, almost pure.

For platinum testing, a different, more complex acid mix such as aqua regia is required.

Step-by-step: testing a 9ct ring

How to test gold purity at home, and what to expect

Let me guide you through the kitchen table valuation process when testing a 9ct gold ring:

1. First, I clean a small spot on the ring to remove any dirt or lacquer, ensuring an accurate result.
2. Next, I gently scrape a tiny mark onto the touchstone with the testing needle.
3. Then, I carefully apply the 9ct acid to the mark.
4. Observe the mark: if it remains intact and does not dissolve after a few seconds (9ct test reaction), this indicates the ring is genuine 9ct gold.
5. If the mark fades or disappears quickly, it suggests lower gold content or plating.

This simple step-by-step shows how you can verify gold purity efficiently during home visits.

Step-by-step: testing white gold and rose gold

Why different gold colours need special attention

White gold and rose gold contain different metals which can influence the acid reactions:

• White gold: Often mixed with nickel or palladium, it might react slightly differently, requiring a gentle test and appropriate acid selection.
• Rose gold: Its copper content darkens the scratch mark but does not affect the acid’s purity indication.

When handled carefully, both types provide clear and reliable results during acid testing.

Testing 18ct, 22ct and 24ct pieces

What a positive 18ct test reaction looks like

Testing higher karat gold like 18ct, 22ct, and 24ct involves using different acid formulas to ensure accurate purity confirmation.

1. Clean the jewellery piece thoroughly.
2. Make a small mark on the touchstone with the gold sample.
3. Apply the acid bottle that matches the expected karat (18ct, 22ct, or 24ct).
4. Observe the mark: a genuine 18ct gold mark will resist dissolving in its respective acid (18ct test reaction), while lower purity marks will fade.

Pure 24ct gold shows little or no reaction with nitric acid, highlighting its high purity.

Can you acid-test platinum? What you need to know

Understanding the nuances of platinum testing

Testing platinum with acids is more complex than gold. Platinum does not react to nitric acid like gold, so it requires a different acid mix such as aqua regia, a potent combination of acids. This test demands professional experience and safety precautions because the chemicals used are very strong and require expert handling.

Unlike gold, platinum’s acid test may not show immediate visible changes. Therefore, professional testing tools and firm expertise are essential to ensure accurate results and safety.

Why we test in front of you, never away from the table

Ensuring complete transparency during the gold acid test in Adelaide

One core promise I make is that testing happens right at your kitchen table where you can see every step clearly. This approach builds trust and removes doubts about your items being taken away or swapped. When you sit with me through the test, you’re fully involved, ensuring openness and confidence.

Many families are surprised by how much they learn watching the test live. Sometimes, they discover their items are different purity than expected. Some decline the test after initial discussion, choosing to keep their jewellery as is. That’s always respected , I provide clear advice but never pressure.

What an acid test cannot tell us, and why we cross-check with hallmarks

Complementing acid tests with hallmark evaluations

While the acid test is a powerful way to confirm gold purity, it has limitations.

• It cannot detect hidden plating or surface treatments.
• Alloy variations might cause slightly different acid reactions.
• Damage or heavy wear can affect results.

Therefore, I always check for hallmarks and stamps on your jewellery. These provide official maker information and purity grades, offering extra clues to verify test results. To learn more about hallmarks, visit our guide here.

Also, you can read about jewellery types (solid, plated, filled) in our article here.

Safety: how Chris handles nitric acid in someone’s kitchen

Professional care during your home gold testing

Safety is my top priority whenever I bring acids like nitric acid into your home. I take several steps to protect both you and your property:

• I wear gloves and eye protection to avoid any contact or accidents.
• Only very small quantities of acid are used , enough just for the test.
• Tests are conducted on a small, non-porous touchstone to contain spills.
• If any spills occur, I neutralise immediately with baking soda or special neutralisers I carry.
• Good ventilation is maintained throughout, such as opening windows when possible.

This careful approach ensures the acid testing process is safe, low-impact, and reassuring for everyone involved.

Conclusion and how to arrange a test

Understanding how to test gold purity at home with an acid test from a trusted expert can save you stress and uncertainty. My approach combines expert techniques with a transparent, interactive experience at your kitchen table.

If you’re in Adelaide or within 150 kilometres from Craigmore, I welcome you to schedule a mobile visit Monday to Friday, 7am to 5pm. Contact me to arrange your personal gold acid test or platinum test.

Call Chris on 0411 108 170 or email chris@adelaidemobilegoldbuyers.com.au. I’m here to help you understand your jewellery’s true value with clarity and care.

For more information about selling your gold, have a look at our guide on selling gold and silver jewellery or learn how it works with Adelaide Mobile Gold Buyers.

Frequently asked questions

Chris’s personal experience and approach

Over the years, I’ve seen a lot of interesting moments during kitchen table valuations. Some families are surprised to learn their treasured heirlooms aren’t quite what they expected. Others are relieved to confirm purity clearly. Occasionally, some clients choose not to proceed after discussion, preferring to keep their items untouched, and I respect that fully. My goal is always to give honest information and a smooth experience.

Performing the gold acid test on your own kitchen table lets you ask questions in real time and understand the process deeply. It makes a big difference to trust and confidence, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

If you’re curious and want to see this in action or chat about your gold or platinum, just reach out. I’m happy to meet you where you are and bring clarity right to your door.