High level of trust
When it comes to gold bullion, purity and authenticity are crucial. Investors, collectors and manufacturers strive to ensure that each bullion is genuine and meets the stated purity. That is why numerous methods of authenticating and determining the exact content of the precious metal are used.
Test and marks
Traditionally, the fineness of gold is determined by special markings on the ingot. These marks indicate the percentage of pure gold in the alloy. The most common assays are 999.9 (24 carats), 999 (24 carats), 995 (23.7 carats) and 916.7 (22 carats). The higher the fineness, the greater the proportion of pure gold in the ingot.
Non-destructive testing methods
Spectroscopic analysis
This method involves irradiating the sample with X-rays or a laser and measuring the spectrum of the reflected radiation. Each element has a unique spectrum that allows you to determine the composition of the alloy.
Ultrasound test
Ultrasonic waves pass through the ingot, and based on their reflection and refraction, the density and uniformity of the material can be estimated.
Visual inspection
Experienced experts can assess the authenticity of the ingot by its weight, color, texture and other visual features. However, this method is not completely accurate.
Destructive testing methods
Chemical analysis
With the help of acids or other reagents, it is possible to completely dissolve a sample of gold and determine its exact composition using spectrometry or other analytical methods.
Trial by fire
One of the oldest methods, which consists in heating the sample to a high temperature. Real gold does not oxidize or lose its color, while impurities can change its color.
List of verified manufacturers
Bars produced by well-known refineries and mints tend to have a higher level of trust. Here are some examples:
- PAMP (Switzerland)
- Valcambi (Switzerland)
- Argor-Heraeus (Switzerland)
- Perth Mint (Australia)
- Royal Canadian Mint (Canada)
- Advantages of authentication
Confidence in your investments
Authenticating ensures that you own a real gold bar and not a counterfeit or adulterated alloy.
Fraud protection
Fraudsters try to sell counterfeit bullion, so verification is critical to the security of the transaction.
Determination of real value
The net weight of the precious metal directly affects the market value of the bullion.
Determining the purity of gold bars and verifying their authenticity is an integral part of trading and investing in this precious metal. Applying modern non-destructive and destructive testing methods, as well as relying on proven manufacturers, you can confidently carry out transactions with gold bars. While some methods are more accurate than others, a combination of different approaches provides the highest level of trust and fraud protection.
