DON'T LOSE MONEY: SPOT FAKE ROLEXES, GOLD, DIAMONDS

Gold authentication starts with hallmarks — the quickest and most reliable first check.

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As one certified jeweller emphasises:

"Hallmarking is the first line of defence. If a piece is unmarked or the mark is worn, density testing becomes critical because gold's specific gravity is one of its hardest characteristics to fake cheaply."

Gold has distinctive physical traits that make it valuable and difficult to replicate.

Real gold is dense, nonmagnetic and nonreactive, so it doesn't tarnish or rust. Authentic pieces often carry purity stamps such as 10K, 14K, 18K, or fineness marks like 375, 585, 750, 999.

■ Authentic pieces show 10K, 14K, 18K, or 375/585/750/999.

■ Fakes may show GP, GF, GEP, or no stamp at all.

■ Gold is not magnetic; strong attraction indicates a cheaper metal core.

■ Real gold feels heavy and sinks immediately in water.