How to identify quality gold

In Singapore, gold is more than just a beautiful accessory; it’s a cornerstone of culture, a symbol of prosperity, and a vital financial asset. For anyone owning or looking to buy gold in this vibrant market, knowing how to identify its quality is the first step to understanding its true worth.

This guide will walk you through Singapore’s popular gold standards, simple testing methods, and the factors that determine your gold’s final resale price.

[Image: An elegant collection of 916 and 999 gold jewellery, such as a bangle, necklace, and a small gold bar.]

When you walk into the many reputable gold shops in Singapore, you’ll primarily hear two numbers: 916 and 999. Understanding them is key.

• 999 Gold (24 Karat)
  999 gold, popular throughout Singapore, is the purest form of gold you can buy, containing 99.9% pure gold.
  • Best For: Investment pieces like gold bars, coins, and ‘Si Dian Jin’ (四点金) sets intended as a store of value.
  • Characteristics: It has a rich, deep yellow lustre but is very soft, making it prone to scratches and dents.
  • GST Exemption: As Investment Precious Metal (IPM), 999 gold is exempt from GST in Singapore, making it a tax-efficient investment.
• 916 Gold (22 Karat)
  916 gold is the most common standard for jewellery in Singapore. It means the item is 91.6% pure gold, with the remaining 8.4% being a mix of other metals like copper or silver.
  • Best For: Everyday jewellery like necklaces, rings, and bangles.
  • Characteristics: The added metals make 916 gold much more durable and suitable for intricate designs.
  • Cultural Significance: It is the go-to standard for bridal and traditional jewellery in Singapore and Southeast Asia.

The quickest way to check your gold is to look for a hallmark—a tiny stamp indicating its purity. You may need a magnifying glass to see it clearly.

For a quick preliminary check on an item’s authenticity, you can use these simple methods.

• The Magnet Test: Gold is not magnetic. If your item sticks to a strong magnet, it is not pure gold. Some pieces will mix other metals like the chain closers so always check a few spots.
• The Skin Test: Real gold doesn’t typically react with skin. If your jewellery leaves a black or green mark after being worn, it’s likely gold-plated.

[Image: A person holding a strong magnet next to a gold chain, showing no attraction.]

While home tests can spot obvious fakes, only a professional assessment is 100% accurate.

• Acid Testing: A traditional method where a small, discreet sample of the gold is tested with specific acids to confirm its carat.
• XRF Spectrometer: This is the modern standard. An XRF machine is a non-destructive scanner that provides an exact breakdown of the metal’s composition without damaging your item. For a reliable assessment, always seek out certified jewellers in Singapore who use this technology.

What Determines the Gold Resale Value in Singapore?

When it’s time to sell, several factors will influence the final gold resale value in Singapore.

• Purity (Carat) & Weight: The item’s carat and weight in grams are the primary factors in its valuation.
• Live Gold Rate: The resale price is tied to the international spot price of gold, which fluctuates daily.
• Branded vs. Unbranded: Jewellery from recognized local or international brands may fetch a better price than unbranded items.
• Workmanship: While you pay for craftsmanship when you buy, the resale value is often based primarily on the gold’s melt value, unless it is a highly sought-after designer piece.

Is Gold a Good Investment? A Look at Price Trends

Historically, gold has shown consistent long-term growth and acts as a safe-haven asset during economic uncertainty. For instance, the price of gold has increased significantly over the past decade, rising from approximately SGD $1,600 per ounce in 2015 to approximately SGD $4,270 per ounce as of today, August 20, 2025. This growth reinforces its status as a reliable store of value.

[Image: A simple line graph showing the upward trend of gold prices over the last 10 years.]

Where to Sell Gold in Singapore: Your Options

If you’re wondering where to sell gold in Singapore for a fair price, understanding your options is key.

• Retail Gold Shops: Many local jewellers buy back gold, sometimes offering a better rate if you trade it for another item.
• Pawnshops: A quick option for cash, but they typically offer a lower price based on a conservative loan value.
• Online Platforms: Sites like Carousell exist, but transactions require caution, self-verification and time..
• Specialist Buyers: Professional buyers like SellYourJewellery.com.sg are experts in valuation and often provide the most competitive prices based on the full market value.

SellYourJewellery.com.sg Advantage: Expertise and Transparency

When you need to be certain about your gold’s quality and value, choosing the right expert is essential.

• Advanced Technology: We use non-destructive XRF scanners for precise and instant gold testing, right here in Singapore, providing you with a detailed composition report.
• Expert Valuation: Our specialists assess not just the gold’s melt value but also its craftsmanship, brand, and any embedded gems to maximise your offer.
• Transparent Process: We explain every step of our valuation, ensuring you understand exactly how we arrived at our fair, competitive price.
• No-Obligation Offers: Our consultations are always free, and you are never under any pressure to sell.
• Consignment: A  route for high end pieces to maximize your gain.

For a professional and transparent valuation of your gold, contact us today to schedule a no-obligation appointment.