If your jewelry doesn’t have any markings at all it’s probably not a precious metal.

For example, a stamp that says “S925” indicates that the jewelry is sterling silver. Pure silver jewelry is rare as pure silver is soft and easily damaged. [3] X Research source

For example, an authentic piece of platinum jewelry might have a stamp reading “PLAT999. "

Platinum/cobalt alloys will usually be stamped as PLAT, Pt950, or possibly Pt950/Co. [6] X Research source The most common alloy used to harden sterling silver is copper, which is not magnetic. If you have a piece of sterling silver jewelry with a . 925 stamp that’s attracted to a magnet, see a reputable jeweler to verify its authenticity.

Buy a kit that can test for both silver and platinum. The bottle labels will indicate which metal they are used to test for. If the kit doesn’t include gloves, buy some separately. If you get any acid on your hands you will burn your skin.

Choose an inconspicuous part of the jewelry to rub against the stone. The stone will scratch and damage a small section of the jewelry. Lay a towel down underneath the stone to protect your work surface from scratches.

Most tests have acids specifically for silver. However, you can also use an 18-karat gold testing acid to identify pure or sterling silver. [8] X Research source Always wear gloves while handling acid.

If you use the 18-karat gold acid test to test on silver, the line will turn a milky white color. [10] X Research source This will indicate that your jewelry is pure or sterling silver. If you doubt your results, test the jewelry again to be sure. [11] X Research source

Wear gloves to protect your hands and work over a towel to protect your workspace. Don’t drop acid on clasps or other important sections. The acid may damage any smaller workings in the jewelry.

If the solution turns white, the metal is 92. 5% silver, or sterling silver. [12] X Research source If it turns a bluish green color, it’s copper or another lesser metal.

Hydrogen peroxide can be found at most grocery stores.

Hydrogen peroxide won’t corrode or damage your jewelry.