FAQs

frequently asked questions

Q1. What is this service?

PM Identify provides independent mobile precious metals testing in Calgary and Surrounding Areas. We verify the authenticity and purity of gold, silver, platinum, and palladium using professional analytical testing equipment.

We do not buy or sell precious metals. Our service is strictly focused on authentication and verification. This ensures unbiased, third-party results you can trust.

We test jewelry, coins, bullion bars, recyclable metal, estate collections, and investment metals directly at your location.

Our testing methods are generally classified as non-destructive whenever possible.

Techniques such as XRF analysis, ultrasonic testing, conductivity testing, and density testing do not damage your items. These methods are widely used in professional material analysis and bullion authentication.

Your metals remain in your possession at all times.

Our precious metals and jewelry testing guarantees the highest accuracy through a comprehensive, multi-method approach that cross-verifies results using scientific technology.

We combine these essential testing methods:

  • Visual and Hallmark Inspection: A professional examination of manufacturer’s marks and purity stamps (e.g., 14K, .925) for initial context.
  • XRF Surface Composition Analysis (X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry): A non-destructive, state-of-the-art technique for rapid, precise elemental breakdown and metal identification (e.g., gold, silver).
  • Density Testing (Specific Gravity Measurement): Calculation of mass and volume for solid items to verify XRF results and detect counterfeits.
  • Conductivity Testing: Differentiates metals with similar densities or surface compositions based on unique electrical conductivity, adding security against fakes.
  • Ultrasonic Testing: Detects internal voids, anomalies, or foreign inserts in high-value bullion, ensuring material homogeneity and integrity.

This robust protocol eliminates reliance on any single test, cross-verifying every result against multiple independent scientific findings. This ensures definitive identification of metal type and purity for accurate buying, selling, or valuation.

Preparing for Your Precious Metal and Jewelry Testing Appointment.

To ensure a smooth and efficient testing appointment, please have the following ready:

  • Clean and Accessible Items: Your jewelry or precious metals should be reasonably clean and easy to handle.
  • A Stable Workspace: A flat, stable table or surface is required for testing.
  • Good Visibility: Make sure the area has adequate lighting.
  • Bullion Bar Packaging: If you are having bullion bars tested, please leave the original packaging intact whenever possible.

Yes. We provide fully mobile precious metals testing throughout Calgary and surrounding Alberta communities.

Appointments can be scheduled at:

  • Private residences
  • Offices
  • Jewelry stores
  • Pawn shops
  • Bullion dealers
  • Secure business locations

Your safety and comfort are important. You are welcome to have another person present during the appointment.

Payment is required upon completion of testing.

We accept:

  • Cash
  • Debit
  • Major credit cards

Mobile card processing is available on-site for convenience.

This service is ideal for anyone who needs independent verification of precious metals.

That includes:

  • Individuals validating a recent gold or silver purchase
  • Families or estate executors assessing inherited jewelry or bullion
  • Investors confirming the authenticity of coins or bars
  • Jewelers and pawn shops requiring third-party alloy verification
  • Coin and bullion dealers validating private transactions
  • High-net-worth individuals seeking private, discreet testing

If you are buying, selling, inheriting, insuring, or storing precious metals, independent testing protects your value.

We provide mobile precious metals testing in:

  • Calgary
  • Cochrane
  • Chestermere
  • Strathmore
  • Okotoks

If you are outside these areas, please contact us to discuss availability.