First, a chain can be made of solid gold, but the gold alloy can also contain magnetic metals, which will make the piece magnetic even though it is not fake. Second, gold is not the only non-magnetic metal. There are other metals used in jewelry that are not attracted by a magnet.

Are gold chains pure gold?

An important thing to consider when buying a gold chain is the purity of the gold. Chains will be offered in a variety of purities - 9ct (37.5% gold) 14ct (58.33% gold) 18ct (75% gold) 22ct (91.66% gold) 24ct (99.99%). ... The lower the gold purity, the more nickel the chain may contain.

How can you tell if a gold chain is solid?

If you cut deep enough that you expose underlying metal, you can assume that it is plated. If it appears to be made of a uniform composition throughout, then it is probably solid gold. Both types of jewelry have advantages and disadvantages.