QuestionHi- we are having a gold show- where accuracy is a must- but so is speed- what is the BEST way to test ALL the incoming pieces from 10kt-24kt? again SPEED & accurracy a must- thanks!!!!
AnswerCheryl, in my experience I have generally used the acid(scratch)testing method and have found an inexperienced person may have difficulty with this method. The secret appears to be having fresh acids but more importantly to have accurate samples of known gold karats. I can reasonably use an "old and weak" 18k acid to find 14k gold as long as I have a known sample of 14k for comparison. Comparison is the name of the game with acid testing. *The acids must be kept off of skin and clothing and all rinsed well when a test is done. The acids are certainly strong enough to do damage and safety is a concern.
Although my experience with electronic testers is quite limited, those who have used the devices recommend that you be certain to get a good instrument in the first place. You may spend a few dollars more but overall is worth it.
The following web page from Shor International is very informative and pretty well fits into my experience as far as accuracy is reported. This company knows much more about accuracy of the testers than do I.
RECOMMENDED IS AN ELECTRONIC TESTER
The choice appears to be electronic. You will notice two different types of these testers and that choice is yours depending on how the device appears to fit your needs. A phone call or e-mail to Shor will likely answer additional questions you may have about a particular device.
I do not recommend one supplier over another but will quote from those providing relevant information or provide a link to that. Here is a link to see more about the testers and various models and prices: (copy and paste)
http://www.shorinternational.com/TestGold.htm
This company has been around many years and carries a solid reputation.
Cheryl, best wishes with the gold show!
God Bless and Peace. Thomas.
*Cheryl, you asked in a reply what should be cleaned after testing. My sentence in the answer makes it appear clothing is included. : ) No, that is not what was meant. Take general precautions as you would around strong corrosive materials. Do not allow the acids to get on skin, clothing, etc. What needs to be rinsed after each test is the test stone and any gold which has acid on it, should you apply the acid directly to the test item.
Generally, a scratch mark is made on the test stone from "known" samples, perhaps of the suspected karat and perhaps of the karats above and below that. Then marks are made from items to be tested. No acid is applied until all the marks are made so the test items and known samples(test needles or other known karat samples) will not normally contact the acid. Several items may be tested at once, making comparisons with the marks of the known samples when acid is applied to all. A fine line of acid drawn across all scratch marks will work just fine.(Actually, there is not a scratch on the stone but more correctly a rubbing of metal from the item to be tested.)
Of course, if by chance the acids do get on skin or clothing, do rinse well and you may use baking soda to neutralize the acids. In application of the tests, if reasonable care is used the only item receiving acid is the test stone and is the only item really needing to be rinsed between tests. (Rinse, pat dry with a paper towel.)
I hope this makes things clear. Thanks. Tom.
