Pure Silver Mangalsutra: How to Identify Authenticity Before Buying

In keeping with tradition, a pure silver mangalsutra is a very beautiful and meaningful piece of jewellery, representing love and commitment. The prevalent market trends, however, demand that when you decide to buy the jewellery, you must ensure its authenticity. The identification of pure silver necessitates, accordingly, an examination into its characteristic hallmarks and quality, which are most important. Knowledge of these aspects will, therefore, allow you to make an informed decision and therefore avoid any fake or low-quality silver.

Check Purity Marks and Hallmarks

The purity external marks constitute some of the best ways of establishing whether a silver mangalsutra is of pure silver. A real pure silver jewellery item should carry a hallmark indicating the amount of silver. Marks like 925 or sterling silver mean there is 92.5 percent pure silver present in the jewellery. Government-certified silver jewellery may additionally carry one or more government seals for verification of authenticity.

The Magnet Test

Since silver is non-magnetic, a quick magnet test will separate out impure silver. If the silver mangalsutra was attracted to the magnet, then it is impurities from metals besides pure silver. The test is simple and fast, but as in all tests, it should be used in combination with other tests for the best results.

Observe Weight and Feel

Weights and feel of pure silver are characteristically different. It is heavier than faux silver and silver-plated jewellery. When grabbing a pure silver mangalsutra, it should feel heavy and sturdy. If it feels lightweight, it indicates a mix of metals or imitation.

Notice Any Indication of Tarnishing

Due to exposure to air and moisture, silver naturally tarnishes after a while. If your silver mangalsutra has dark spots that can be rubbed off, it is most likely real silver. Fake silver or silver-plated jewellery does not tarnish as real silver does, and they may reveal some other metal underneath if scratched.

Ice Test

Pure silver is able to conduct heat very well. One can perform this test by placing an ice cube on the silver mangalsutra. If the ice melts at an accelerated speed when compared to apples to apples with ice being placed on another metal, then you have genuine silver.

Rubbing Test with Soft Cloth

This is basically rubbing your silver mangalsutra with a soft white cloth. If you can see a black patch on the cloth, it means the oxidised silver is more, and hence this is a real silver piece of jewellery. In the case of fake silver, this does not happen.

The Responsibility of a Seller's Reputation

It is wise to purchase from a trusted and reputed seller since he will guarantee your purchase of a pure silver mangalsutra. Well-known jewellers certify their jewellery by providing authenticity certificates and hallmarking, so you can rest assured of quality. Do read customer reviews and ask for the necessary documents before making a purchase.

Do Not Buy Silver-Plated Items

Some sellers market silver-plated mangalsutras, i.e., those with a fine silver coat over something below that pure quality, also called "mangalsutras.". In time, metals can wear on this layer, exposing the base. Always have second thoughts on silver hallmarking and other tests to ensure that you are getting a pure silver mangalsutra, not a plated one.

Testing

In case of extreme uncertainty, an option is to have the silver mangalsutra checked by a jeweller. Jewellers would now use professional methods such as acid tests and electronic testing that can guarantee silver purity. All in all, this is another option that is perfect for high-value items for which authenticity is paramount. 

Final Thoughts

It is important to identify a pure silver mangalsutra before the purchase, ensuring one gets a fine one. Hallmark verification, simple tests, and well-thought-of sellers build up confidence when buying anything. With all these factors in mind, one can invest confidently in a genuine silver mangalsutra that has emotional and cultural values.