How It Works
OUR PROCESS
Our process protects you
We provide immediate on-site, witnessed testing with results in minutes.
Precious metals verification requires a multi-method analytical approach.
Each testing method complements another to provide cross-validation and achieve a high level of confidence in the final results.
All testing is explained
and can be directly observed by the client. Testing is based on established scientific principles and techniques.
Pricing
is dependent on the extent of testing and reporting needed is agreed upon ahead of testing. Payment will be required on completion of testing.
Results
can be shared right away, but formal reporting will be issued within 24 hrs. The results will be clearly presented, both qualitative and quantitative.
Discretion,
security and comfort are important to us. You are welcome to have an another person present during the appointment.
Request Your Appointment
An appointment can be made through the contact form.
A certified technician will contact you to collect more details and agree on the preferred location for your appointment.
Based on the information gathered during this initial discussion a preliminary assessment for the extent of testing can be established.
On-Site Arrival & Initial Review
Our certified technician will arrive fully equipped with professional analytical instruments and all necessary equipment.
Following a formal introduction, the items requiring evaluation will be reviewed to determine the appropriate testing scope and methods, aligned with the client’s objectives and requested level of analysis.
Final pricing is determined based on the agreed testing scope and reporting requirements and will be confirmed prior to commencing any testing.
All testing procedures are clearly explained in advance and may be directly observed by the client.
Inspection & Advanced Instrument Testing
The process starts with a detailed visual inspection, looking for:
- Hallmarks, mint marks, or engravings
- Signs of plating or forgery
- General physical characteristics of the piece
We then begin the full testing process which includes our basic physical tests and advanced instrument testing.
Basic Physical Tests
- Magnetic Screening: A preliminary magnetic test is performed to quickly identify ferromagnetic materials and assist in ruling out common base metals. This screening can also indicate diamagnetic behavior typical of gold and silver, or paramagnetic characteristics associated with metals such as palladium and platinum. (Note: copper is also diamagnetic and therefore magnetic response alone is not conclusive.)
- Density verification may be performed. For geometrically uniform items, dimensions can be measured and compared against weight to confirm expected material density. For irregularly shaped items, density could be determined using a controlled water displacement method.
Advanced Instrument Testing
- PMI XRF Analysis; provides non-destructive elemental analysis of the metal surface to determine chemical composition and identify the metal and/or alloy content. Results are delivered in real time and are used as a primary compositional verification tool.
- Ultrasonic testing; measures ultrasonic wave velocity and material response through the body of the item. This allows verification beyond surface analysis by confirming internal consistency, thickness uniformity, and material characteristics throughout the piece.
- Conductivity testing (Eddy Current method); uses controlled eddy current measurement to evaluate the electrical conductivity of the metal. Because precious metals have highly specific conductivity signatures, this method provides strong confirmation of silver, gold, platinum, and palladium content. It is particularly effective in identifying plated or layered items and verifying bulk material consistency.
Results & Certification
Due to the multi-method analysis approach, testing results will be conclusive and can be shared immediately with you on-site.
On request, a formal Certificate of Material Verification can be issued within 24 hours and sent by email.
Payment & Completion
Payment is required upon completion of testing and can be paid by cash, Interac e-Transfer or credit card.
Ready to Verify Your Gold, Silver or Jewelry?
Whether you’re preparing to sell, store, insure, or invest, verification protects your value. Schedule your mobile precious metals testing appointment today.