Assaying Metals

X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) Testing

Accurately identifying metal content is essential when buying, selling, or evaluating precious and industrial metals. Our assaying services use modern, non-destructive testing methods to determine the type of metal and its approximate composition, giving you confidence in what you own.

X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) Analysis

We use state-of-the-art X-ray fluorescence technology to analyze metals and determine their elemental composition and relative percentages. XRF testing is fast, non-invasive, and does not damage your item.

Our equipment can identify elements from over 26 different metals, including gold, silver, platinum, palladium, copper, zinc, nickel, cadmium, iron, manganese, lead, and many others. Whether you are evaluating gold jewelry, silver items, bullion, or manufactured metal objects, XRF testing provides a reliable assessment of metal content.

Please note that we cannot assay rocks or raw ore unless there are visible, exposed metal sections large enough for testing.

Cadmium and Lead Screening

Our XRF testing uses the same technology employed by many state agencies to screen products for lead and cadmium content. While we can detect the presence of these elements, we are not a licensed lead or cadmium testing facility and cannot issue official compliance documentation.

Pricing for XRF Testing

X-ray fluorescence testing is priced per item:

1 to 5 items:

$25 per item

6 to 20 items:

$20 per item

More than 20 items:

Call for pricing

Pricing does not include shipping or return insurance if items are sent to us. Please contact us for details if you are not present during testing and require return shipment.

Additional Testing Services

Specific Gravity Testing

Specific gravity (density) testing can be used as a secondary method to support XRF results. This test measures the average density of the metals used in an item and can help rule out certain compositions.

Specific gravity testing is available only after XRF testing has been completed and is not suitable for hollow items. While it can indicate what an item is not with reasonable certainty, it cannot definitively confirm what it is.

Price: $20 per item

Available only after XRF testing

Ultrasonic Testing

Ultrasonic testing is useful for items with at least two flat, parallel surfaces. This method helps determine whether the metal composition identified by XRF on the surface is consistent deeper inside the item.

This test is most effective for negative identification and for items suspected to be solid or uniform throughout. Like specific gravity testing, it cannot definitively confirm composition but can help eliminate certain possibilities.

Price: $20 per item

Available only after XRF testing

Written Documentation of Results

For customers who need formal records, we offer written documentation of all test results. Reports are provided on our official letterhead and may include photographs of the tested item if requested.

Price: $60 per item

Metal Identification Overview

Precious Metals

Precious metals are rare, naturally occurring metallic elements with high economic value. They are typically less reactive, highly durable, and possess a distinctive luster. Historically used as currency, precious metals today are valued for investment, industrial use, jewelry, and collectibles.

The most widely recognized precious metals are gold and silver, followed by the platinum group metals: platinum, palladium, rhodium, ruthenium, iridium, and osmium. Among these, platinum and palladium are the most actively traded in modern markets.

Base Metals

In mining and economics, base metals generally refer to non-ferrous industrial metals that are not classified as precious. Common base metals include copper, lead, nickel, and zinc. Broader definitions, such as those used by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, also include iron and steel, aluminum, tin, tungsten, molybdenum, cobalt, cadmium, manganese, chromium, titanium, and many other industrial metals.

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