Precious Metals Analysis

XRF Technology for Precious Metals

XRF is currently the best method for determining the full elemental composition of precious metals. It eliminates most drawbacks of older techniques:

• No material loss or damage to the item
• The object keeps its original weight and shape
• High accuracy with results in just seconds
• Works with objects of almost any size and shape
• Analyzes all elements in a single quick measurement
• Detects harmful elements (Ir, Cd, Ru, Pb) and coatings such as gilding
• No consumables required
• No sample preparation needed

How a Precious Metal Analyzer Works

XRF precious metal analyzers use X-ray fluorescence: X-rays interact with the sample, producing characteristic X-ray lines unique to each element. The analyzer captures this spectrum and calculates the composition. These instruments are portable, accurate, and easy to operate, making them the preferred tool across many industries. They reliably detect gold, silver, platinum, platinum-group metals (PGM), and common alloying elements like copper, lead, or cadmium.

XRF vs Other Precious Metal Testing Methods

Common alternatives include acid test, fire assay, and conductivity test.

• Acid test → only gives approximate grade, not quantitative
• Conductivity test → cheap but inaccurate due to temperature effects and similar readings for different alloys
• Fire assay → very accurate but destructive and takes hours

XRF combines the accuracy of fire assay with the speed, simplicity, and non-destructive nature of fluorescence analysis — making it the optimal solution for precious metals.

Types of Precious Metals Analyzed

XRF equipment effectively analyzes:

• Gold (Au)
• Silver (Ag)
• Platinum (Pt)
• Platinum-group metals (PGM) and many others.

Handheld XRF Analyzers for Precious Metal Analysis

Modern handheld XRF analyzers are highly portable with user-friendly interfaces. They work quickly and accurately on precious metals, alloys, and other materials.

Typical features include:

• High accuracy
• Fast analysis speed
• Automatic correction for temperature and pressure (no recalibration needed)
• Water- and dust-resistant design
• Foldable display
• Long battery life (up to 16 hours)
• Macro- and micro-view with built-in cameras
• Connectivity via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or USB

Benchtop XRF Analyzers for Precious Metals

Compact benchtop models offer high accuracy, durability, and affordability. They are suitable for all common precious metal analysis.

Advantages: reasonable price, high efficiency, compact size, advanced software, ergonomic design.

Specialized jewelry versions provide fast detection of non-standard alloys and coatings in seconds, built-in camera for precise spot targeting, printer and scales for certificates, high speed, autonomous operation, and easy interface.

Choosing a reliable XRF analyzer ensures affordable, effective, and precise precious metals analysis.