How can you tell if old jewelry is real gold?

To tell if old jewelry is real gold, try placing a magnet near it. Genuine gold isn't magnetic, so if the magnet sticks, your jewelry is probably composed of a different metal or has only a thin layer of gold plating as its finish. Alternatively, you can have a certified appraiser or knowledgeable jeweler inspect your pieces to identify their materials. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of gold jewelry.