How to Spot Fake Gold: Tests & Signs of Authenticity

A man attempting to sell a counterfeit gold chain was detained by police in Düzce, Turkey, on February 12, 2026, after a jeweler recognized inconsistencies in the metal and alerted authorities. The incident, which occurred at a jewelry store on İstanbul Caddesi in the Şerefiye neighborhood, highlights a growing trend of sophisticated fraud targeting Turkish jewelers.

According to store owner Muhammed Algün, the suspect, identified as Salih E., exhibited nervous behavior while attempting to sell the chain. “We initially examined the chain with the naked eye and it appeared genuine,” Algün stated. “It even had hallmarks indicating a gold purity. However, the suspect’s demeanor raised our suspicions.” Algün then used a specialized measuring device to confirm the chain was, in fact, a forgery.

The counterfeit chain was meticulously crafted, featuring hallmarks designed to mimic authentic gold jewelry. Algün emphasized the sophistication of the operation, noting that the forgery was convincing enough to initially deceive even a trained eye. “They had done a very good job,” he said. “We immediately informed the police, who apprehended the suspect.”

Security camera footage from the jewelry store captured the moment of the attempted sale and the subsequent police intervention. The Düzce Police Department has not released further details regarding the investigation or potential connections to a larger network of counterfeiters.

This incident follows a similar case in Kütahya, where authorities recently conducted an operation targeting counterfeit gold, according to reports. The prevalence of these incidents suggests a coordinated effort to introduce fake gold into the market, potentially exploiting the precious metal’s value as a safe haven asset.

Algün cautioned other jewelers to remain vigilant and utilize testing equipment to verify the authenticity of gold items, particularly during morning hours when such attempts are more common. He added that the suspect’s behavior was a key indicator of potential fraud.