Gold stands for stability – but only if it is real. So how can you see false gold? Which tricks apply fraudsters? And what should you pay attention to when buying? An overview.
• Real or not – test yourself
• deceptively real counterfeits
• Eyes open when buying
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Gold is considered a crisis -safe asset class and is therefore particularly popular with security -conscious investors. According to Statista, around 9,034 tons of gold were owned by German private households in early 2024 – a treasure worth over 840 billion euros. But what does all the wealth bring when there is ultimately only worthless imitations in the safe?
Recognize authenticity features: what you should pay attention to
To ensure that the bought piece is really real gold, some simple tests can also be carried out at home. The magnet test can be a first hint: gold is not magnetic. So if the piece is attracted to a magnet, it is very likely that it is a fake.
Another simple test is the density measurement – for example with a glass of water. It is checked how much water the gold piece is displaced. Pure gold is very difficult for its volume and has a typical density of around 19.3 grams per cubic centimeter. If the calculated value deviates significantly, it could be a different metal that is only gilded.
Even if simple tests can give a first impression, it is advisable to visit a trustworthy precious metal dealer in case of doubt. Professional dealers have precise test devices such as ultrasound, X-ray or conductivity measuring devices with which the authenticity of a gold piece can be determined without doubt.
Common methods of counterfeiters
Corresponders use more and more sophisticated methods to deceive unsuspecting buyers. Gold pieces with a core of cheap metals such as tungsten, brass or copper are particularly widespread. Wolfram is particularly tricky because it has an almost identical density like gold. If such a core is covered with a thin layer of gold, bars or coins are created, which appear deceptively real in weight and size. Such falsifications are difficult to recognize and require professional test methods such as X -rays, ultrasound or precise density measurement.
Another popular deception is packaging. Small gold bars are often sold in sealed blister packaging, which are provided with alleged test certificates, serial numbers and manufacturer logos. Counterfeiters take advantage of this fact: the packaging looks serious, but the content can be fake. Since many buyers do not open the shell out of worry about loss of value, the fraud often remains undetected.
Interesting coins are also affected by counterfeits. The crumbs, the Maple Leaf or the Vienna Philharmonic are among the most frequently copied motifs. The imitations usually match the weight and diameter with the original, but on closer inspection there are differences in the color, in the gloss or in the depth of detail of the embossing. Such characteristics without a comparison or experience can hardly be recognized for laypersons.
Buy safely: How to protect yourself from fraud
The safest protection against counterfeiting begins when buying. If you are offered gold at unusually low prices, you should be particularly vigilant. Real bars and coins are rarely sold under the current daily course – larger deviations are usually a warning signal.
Caution is also required when buying via auction houses or platforms such as eBay. Serious sellers frolic there, but professional counterfeiters also use such marketplaces to spread their goods – often with fake certificates and professionally designed product images.
Online action and sales platforms are particularly critical that advertise with aggressive marketing or limited offers. Psychological pressure is often used here to promote spontaneous purchase decisions. A comprehensive examination of the providers – for example through reviews, imprint and return rights – is essential here.
In a detailed contribution, Stiftung Warentest advises you to buy gold exclusively from renowned dealers – especially from banks, savings banks or established precious metal houses. In their analysis, consumer advocates emphasize that private offers – for example on online marketplaces – are associated with high risks. Especially with supposed bargains there is a great risk of falling in for counterfeits. If you want to be on the safe side, you should rely on certified dealers with comprehensible supply chains and clear return regulations.
Editor finance.net