Are the WWE Wrestling Belts Real Gold?By Coder| September 27, 2023 Wrestling Blogs Are the WWE Wrestling Belts Real Gold? When it comes to professional wrestling, one of the most iconic symbols of success and prestige is undoubtedly the championship belt. These belts, worn proudly by the champions of various wrestling promotions, are often adorned with intricate designs and shimmering gold plating. But are these belts actually made of real gold? Let’s dive into this question and separate fact from fiction. The History of Championship Belts Championship belts have a long and storied history in professional wrestling. The tradition of awarding belts to champions dates back to the early days of the sport in the late 19th century. These belts were typically crafted from leather, featuring ornate designs and metal plates. Over time, as professional wrestling evolved into a global phenomenon, championship belts became more elaborate and visually appealing. The use of gold plating became increasingly common, adding a touch of opulence to these coveted prizes. The Truth Behind the Gold While the use of gold plating gives championship belts their distinctive appearance, it is important to note that most WWE wrestling belts are not made entirely out of real gold. Instead, they feature a combination of materials that give them both durability and an authentic look. The main component of these championship belts is typically brass. Brass is a metal alloy consisting primarily of copper and zinc. It provides a sturdy base for the belt while also allowing for intricate designs and engravings. To achieve the desired golden shine, brass belts are then plated with a layer of genuine gold. This process involves applying thin sheets or layers of real gold onto the surface using electroplating techniques. This creates an authentic-looking finish without utilizing large quantities of expensive gold. Distinguishing Real Gold from Gold Plating While WWE wrestling belts may not be entirely made of real gold, their gold plating can still create a visually convincing effect. However, there are a few ways to distinguish between genuine gold and gold plating: Weight: Real gold is significantly heavier than brass or other metals typically used in championship belts. Magnet test: Brass and other base metals used in belt construction are usually magnetic, whereas gold is not. Scratch test: Gold is a relatively soft metal, so genuine gold will show scratches when tested against a hard surface. Gold-plated items may reveal the underlying base metal. It’s worth noting that while championship belts may not be made entirely of real gold, they still hold immense value due to their association with legendary wrestlers and the history they represent. In Conclusion While WWE wrestling belts may not be made of solid gold, they are still prized possessions in the world of professional wrestling. These belts serve as symbols of achievement and excellence, representing the pinnacle of success for those who wear them. The use of brass as the main material and gold plating gives these championship belts their iconic appearance. So while they might not be made purely of real gold, their value comes from more than just the materials used. In the end, whether or not WWE wrestling belts are made of real gold doesn’t diminish their significance. They remain cherished trophies that capture the imagination of both wrestlers and fans alike.