Gold & Silver Guides
Practical guides written by precious metals buyers with years of experience. Learn how to spot real gold, identify silver coins, understand karat values, and avoid common mistakes before you sell.
About Gold
Is Gold Magnetic?
Pure gold is not magnetic. If yours sticks to a magnet, here's exactly what that means and what to do next.
Read guideHow to Tell If Gold Is Real
Eight at-home tests that catch fakes, plus when to skip the home tests and get a free XRF scan.
Read guideGold Karat Guide: 10k vs 14k vs 18k vs 24k
What each karat actually means for purity, durability, and resale value.
Read guideDoes Gold Tarnish?
When real gold discolors, why it happens, and how to clean it without damage.
Read guideHow Much Does a Gold Bar Weigh?
Standard sizes from 1 gram to 400 ounces, with weights in grams and troy ounces.
Read guideWhat Is White Gold?
Composition, care, and how white gold compares to silver and platinum.
Read guideAbout Silver
What Is 925 Sterling Silver?
What the 925 stamp means, how it differs from pure silver, and what your piece is actually worth.
Read guideDoes Sterling Silver Tarnish?
Why sterling silver darkens, what causes it, and how to slow it down.
Read guideHow to Clean Sterling Silver
Step-by-step home methods that work, plus the mistakes that ruin your pieces.
Read guideSterling Silver vs Silver
The exact difference between sterling, fine silver, and silver-plated items.
Read guideIs Sterling Silver Hypoallergenic?
What buyers with sensitive skin need to know about sterling, nickel, and 925 stamps.
Read guideComparisons & Education
Karat vs Carat
One word, two meanings. The difference matters when you're buying or selling gold and gemstones.
Read guideSilver vs White Gold
Cost, durability, appearance, and which one to buy depending on what you actually want.
Read guideIs Platinum Better Than Gold?
A side-by-side comparison covering price, weight, durability, and long-term value.
Read guideWhat Is Gold Bullion?
A beginner's guide to bars, coins, and rounds, plus what makes a piece investment-grade.
Read guide