Gold has long been known as one of the most valuable and popular metals in the world. But one of the main issues in buying and selling gold is gold grading and its purity. In this blog post, we will explain to you the different methods of measuring gold in a simple and understandable way. Keep in mind that some of these methods require special devices and tools, and some can be done at home; Whatever gold grading method you choose, you should not allow the gold piece to be damaged or lose its value.
By accurately determining the gold grade, you can be sure of the authenticity of your gold piece and buy or sell gold at its real price. For this reason, we recommend you to stay with us until the end of this article so that we can check the methods of measuring gold in detail.
Use of touchstone for measuring gold
In this method, a black touchstone is used, which is usually made of silicon and quartz. This method is mostly used for light gold pieces or thin gold sheets. First, we measure the gold sample on the touchstone. Then we check a reaction by pouring strong sultan water or nitric acid on the gold. The color of the water helps us to distinguish the carat of gold:
- Tizab with yellow color: 10 carat
- Green color in Soltani acid: 14 carat
- Tizab with red color: 18 karat
- Tizab with blue color: 22 carat
Gold grading training with touchstone
To start measuring the gold grade, we first draw the sample on the surface of the benchmark stone. If it does not leave any traces on the stone, we should consider that this metal may not be gold or it may be coated with gold.
If the trace of gold remains on the touchstone, we pour the sharp water (acidic solution) on the surface of the touchstone. Then we check the displayed reactions:
If no reaction occurs, it means that the desired gold carat is on par with the water.
If the color of the trace that is on the touchstone becomes lighter, the gold grade is lower than the purity.
If the color of the trace that is on the touchstone disappears completely, the target metal may not be gold or there may be a very small percentage of gold in it.
For a more detailed examination, using a file, we separate some of the gold and pour some of the acid on it:
If it doesn’t show any reaction, the carat of the desired gold is equal to the water.
If it turns dark green, the desired gold carat is lower than the clear carat.
If it changes shape and begins to foam, the metal may not be gold, or it may contain a very small percentage of gold.
Gold measurement by Rayi method
This method is the most accurate grading method that is performed in gold grading laboratories. In order to measure the grade by casting, the gold sample is first crushed and then melted. In the next step, silver and gold are separated using the coupling process. Then, using acid treatment, the gold is purified and its grade is calculated. Finally, a number is written on the gold in the goldsmith’s laboratories, which shows the characteristics of the gold.
Using a gold rate detection device
Gold detectors such as spectrophotometers and XRF are widely used tools in various industries, including gold and jewelry, mining, and chemical analysis. Using physical and chemical principles, these devices detect the amount and type of metals in the samples. In the following, we will explain to you each of these devices and how they work in measuring gold:
Spectrophotometer:
Spectrophotometer is a laboratory device that works based on optical and spectroscopic principles. The steps to detect gold grade with a spectrophotometer are as follows:
This device uses a light source (usually a halogen lamp) to produce light that is shone onto the sample.
The sample reflected from the light at different wavelengths is sent to the spectrometer, and then the spectrometer records the light intensity for each wavelength.
Using the recorded results and optical spectrum analysis, it is possible to determine the grade and purity of the metals in the sample.
This device is usually used to analyze gold and other metals with high accuracy and adjustability.
XRF device (X-ray Fluorescence):
XRF is a non-destructive analysis technology that works based on X-ray radiation. The stages of measuring gold with an XRF device are as follows:
This device is irradiated to the sample from an X-ray source. X-rays provide enough energy to attract the inner electrons of the sample atoms.
This process creates fluorescent rays that have specific energies and wavelengths.
By analyzing the fluorescence rays that are collected by the device, it is possible to determine different elements and their concentration in the sample.
The XRF device is used as a reliable and high-precision tool to analyze the grade of gold and other metals, especially in industries that require high speed and accuracy.
Conclusion
In this article from E-Golden, we examined one of the common terms of the gold market, i.e. grade measurement, and examined various methods of measuring gold grade. We have seen that you can determine the grade of gold with the help of touchstone and sultani acid, or you can send it to professional gold grading laboratories, which will determine the grade for you with the help of the Ray-Giri method and gold detection device. We hope this article was useful for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the least expensive method of measuring gold
Benchmark is the least expensive method of measuring gold, and most gold shops use this method to identify their gold.
Is it possible to measure gold at home
Yes. You can use the
