Problem: Article: The marking, or hallmark, tells you what percentage of gold an item consists of. The hallmark is often printed on jewelry clasps or the inner bands of rings. It is usually visible on the surface of coins and bullion. The stamp is a number from 1 to 999 or 0K to 24K depending on what kind of grading system was used. Use a magnifying glass to help you identify the hallmark. It can be tough to make out by eye, especially on smaller pieces of gold such as rings. Older pieces of jewelry may not have visible hallmarks. Sometimes the hallmark wears off over time, while in other cases the jewelry never got a stamp. Hallmarking became common in the 1950s in some areas, but in India for instance, it only became mandatory in the year 2000. Most coins and jewelry are not pure gold, so they have other metals mixed in. There are 2 different scales used to indicate this through the hallmark. The number rating system used in Europe runs from 1 to 999 with 999 meaning pure gold. The U.S. uses a scale from 0 to 24K, where 24K is pure gold. The number rating system is easier to read than the karat rating system. For example, a rating of 375 means your item consists of 37.5% gold. What number means gold depends on the country you are in. In the U.S., for example, anything 9K and under is not considered to be gold, even though a 9K bracelet consists of 37.5% gold. Counterfeit pieces may have markings making them look authentic, so don't go solely on the hallmark unless you're certain you are holding gold. Some of the common letters you may see are GP, GF, and GEP. These letters indicate that your gold piece is plated, which means the maker put a thin layer of gold over another metal, such as copper or silver. Your item has some gold in it, but it isn't considered to be real gold. GP stands for gold plated, GF means gold filled, and GEP means gold electroplate. The markings vary a little depending on where the gold is from. For instance, gold from India contains a small triangle symbol indicating the government council responsible for the rating system. It then has a number rating and a letter code, such as K, for the jeweler. Gold is pretty soft for a metal, so plated gold often rubs away over time. The best places to check are around the edges of jewelry and coins. These spots often rub up against your skin and clothing throughout the day. If you see a different metal underneath the gold, you know your item is plated and not considered real gold. For example, a silver coloring might indicate silver or titanium. A red coloring could mean copper or brass. Pure gold doesn't react with sweat or oil from your skin, so if you see black or green marks, they are from other metals. Silver leaves behind black marks and copper leaves behind green marks. If you see a lot of these marks on your skin, your gold may be less pure than you expect. Keep in mind that most gold items are blends of gold and other metals. Even something like a 14K piece of jewelry, 58.3% gold, can leave these marks. Use other tests as well to ensure your gold is authentic.
Summary: Look for an official number marking on the gold. Use the number marking to determine how much gold is in your piece. Check for a letter marking indicating that the gold isn't pure. Find any noticeable discolorations where the gold has worn away. Note any discolorations on your skin from wearing or holding the gold.

Problem: Article: Wicker furniture is one of the most popular materials for outdoor furniture. It's a very versatile material, and you can get many varieties of patio furniture with wicker. Wicker comes in a variety of colors. You can also paint wicker furniture to better match your patio's color scheme. Many different types of furniture (tables, chairs, end tables) come in wicker varieties. You should be able to find something in wicker that fits your style and color scheme. Wicker generally holds up against water. However, you should make sure your wicker is made out of polyethylene as this will be most weather resistant. Opt for new wicker furniture that hasn't been subjected to rain or humidity, as it won't be very strong or durable. Wood is another classic material for patio furniture. If you're looking for a practical, old fashioned style, wood may be your best option. Like wicker, wood comes in many different styles and colors. If you want wood furniture, you should be able to find a piece that matches your needs in wood. It should say somewhere on the label whether the wood is authentic. However, make sure you're buying real wood. Many patio furniture labeled as wood is actually made of synthetic materials. Only real wood will hold up well long term. Take into account the maintenance that comes with having wood furniture. You may need to power wash, stain, or seal the wood periodically to keep it in good condition. Plastic can be a cheaper option if you're on a budget. It's also lightweight and easy to move. Quality plastics are also very durable and resistant to many different types of weather. Plastics can be great if you're looking for patio furniture to last year round. Look for recycled plastic and polymer for best results. You should also keep your eyes out for plastics that come with UV-stabilizing pigments, as these will prevent colors from fading. Iron may work great if you live in an area prone to heavy wind or rain. Iron is of a heavier weight than other varieties, so it can stand its ground during volatile weather conditions. Iron works best for year round patio furniture that does not need to be moved much throughout the year. If you live in an area where it snows during winter, iron furniture must be stored inside. Look for powder-coated, UV resistant finishes when choosing iron furniture. Ensure the traditional style of iron furniture matches the existing decor of your home. Fabric can be a great addition to patio furniture as it adds comfort. However, if you're choosing fabric, be careful. You want a fabric that is weather resistant and easy to store. Solution-dyed acrylic are best for fabric furniture. These fabrics are designed for outside use. Look for fabric that can be machine-washed or cleaned with a garden hose. Choose cushions you can easily carry so you can move them indoors during rain or snowfall. Select patterned, rather than solid or bright, fabric to hide dirt and sun-fading.
Summary:
Choose wicker furniture for versatility. Select wood furniture for a traditional feel. Opt for quality plastic furniture to save money. Pick iron furniture for a durable option. Take precautions when choosing fabric.