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Refining Gold Content

What is the Process of Refining Gold?
The process of refining gold involves several steps. It starts with melting down the unprocessed gold to a molten state. Next, a gas containing chlorine is circulated through the molten gold. This gas helps transform impurities and other metals into a solid state, making it easier to separate them from the gold. Through this meticulous process, the gold obtained remains remarkably pure, typically at 98% purity.
Can you Refine Gold at Home?

If you’re interested in refining gold at home for additional cash, there are certain steps to follow. You’ll need a purpose-built electric furnace and a graphite crucible to melt your gold nuggets, gold powder, or gold jewelry.
It’s important to exercise caution due to the high melting temperature of gold, which reaches 1064 degrees Celsius or 1947.2 degrees Fahrenheit. Safety gear such as gloves, goggles, and an apron should be worn to protect yourself during the process.
However, if you have no prior experience refining gold and are concerned about your personal safety, it is best to defer to the expertise of trained specialists or, at the absolute least, seek the guidance of an individual who has relevant prior experience before proceeding. Do remember to wear the appropriate safety gear such as shoes glove, goggles and apron to protect yourself.
Can I Melt my own Gold?
Using a propane torch is the method that will provide the best results when melting gold at home. The gold will be molten in a few short minutes using this procedure. Place the gold inside of a crucible made of graphite. After that, slowly point the propane flame in the direction of the gold.
Does Melting Gold Purify it?
Yes. In point of fact, the purification of gold using fire’s earliest form is melting.
What is the melting point of Gold?
The temperature at which gold melts (boils) is 1064 degrees centigrade or 1947.2 Fahrenheit and melting it at this point poses a significant danger of serious burns due to the high temperature.
How long does it take for Gold to be Refined?
The time required for gold refining can vary depending on factors such as the initial purity level. In most cases, the refining process can be completed in as short as one day. However, some refineries may take slightly longer to ensure the highest level of purity. If you encounter a refinery that seems to be prolonging the process unnecessarily, it’s advisable to request faster turnaround or consider seeking alternative options for refining your gold.
What Chemicals are used in Refining Gold?
The process of refining gold alloys by utilizing a mixture of acids and other chemical products is referred to as the aqua regia refining process. The aqua regia solution is made up of a combination of hydrochloric acid HCL and nitric acid HNO3, among other components.
Do Gold Refineries Buy Gold?

Using gold refineries, precious metals may be recovered at a lower cost when compared to selling to a local precious metals dealer as you are cutting out the middleman.
Gold scrap is something refineries can acquire and then purify to ensure it is 100% pure gold by doing a Fire Assay. Gold such as dental gold scrap gold and gold metal jewellery are weighed and then smelted to produce pure gold. Some Swiss companies were melting gold teeth back during World War 2.
Can I sell my Gold directly to a Refinery?
You can earn more money for your gold if you sell directly to a refinery and avoid the intermediary. Most people cannot sell gold directly to a refinery because of the anti-money laundering (AML/KYC) requirements, which oblige refineries to utilize intermediaries for these transactions, adding another layer of complexity.
Regulation of the industry much like it has with Banks has forced additional layers between sellers and the end refinery, this is called layering in banking and the same is true of the precious metals industry. The like of the LBMA Audit refineries to ensure their clients pass the appropriate standards, but there is a thin veil over who sells the gold in the first place to the refineries clients.
How do Gold Refineries make Money?
In the event that you are in a rush to sell precious metal scrap to a refinery, the refinery will pay you a low price especially when there is over supply of scrap when prices rise and their cash flow liquidity might be tight. The refinery will recover the valuable metals that were included inside the junk, and then earn more money by selling those metals at market prices after they have refined them and command a higher premium.
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How do I start a gold refining business?
If you have access to the necessary chemicals and can afford the refining equipment, and supplies, you may start your own gold refinery. Gold refining is a lucrative enterprise because of the huge demand in the jewellery industry and precious metals investors worldwide….
The following refinery processes can include:
Cupellation with Refining Gold: A Timeless Alchemical Process
Cupellation, a venerable alchemical technique dating back to ancient civilizations, has played a pivotal role in refining gold and separating it from impurities. This remarkable process has endured through the ages, continuing to be employed in modern times for its exceptional ability to purify precious metals, with a primary focus on gold.
The cupellation process involves the use of a cupel, typically a small, shallow, porous vessel made from bone ash or other refractory materials. The gold-containing material, usually an alloy or impure gold, is placed inside the cupel and subjected to high temperatures in a controlled environment, typically in a furnace. As the temperature rises, the base metals and impurities in the gold sample oxidize, forming metal oxides and other compounds. These impurities are absorbed by the porous cupel, leaving behind a molten globule of pure gold.
One of the key advantages of cupellation is its selectivity. The process specifically targets base metals like lead, copper, and silver, which form stable oxides under the cupellation conditions. Gold, on the other hand, remains in its metallic form and collects in the resulting bead. This remarkable selectivity is what makes cupellation an indispensable method in refining gold, especially when dealing with complex mixtures or alloys.
Historically, cupellation played a significant role in the alchemical pursuit of turning base metals into gold, though it proved fruitless in this regard. However, it became an invaluable tool for the mining and jewelry industries, enabling the production of high-purity gold for coins, bullion, and intricate jewelry designs.
In the modern era, cupellation has not lost its relevance. While more advanced methods like electrolysis and cyanide leaching have emerged, cupellation remains a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice for small-scale refining operations. It is also vital in assaying laboratories for accurately determining the purity of gold samples.
Inquartation in Gold Refining: A Precise Alchemical Art
Inquartation is another traditional yet precise alchemical method employed in the refining of gold. This centuries-old technique has proven to be invaluable in achieving high levels of purity and consistency when working with gold alloys.
The inquartation process is particularly useful when dealing with gold alloys that contain a substantial amount of silver, as it helps to separate these two precious metals effectively. The term “inquartation” derives from the Latin word “in quartum,” which means to divide into quarters. This name aptly reflects the core objective of the process: to divide the alloy into its constituent parts, namely gold and silver.
The process begins by taking the gold-silver alloy and dissolving it in a mixture of nitric acid and hydrochloric acid, commonly referred to as “aqua regia.” The acid selectively dissolves the silver content, leaving behind the gold in a granular or sponge-like form. This mixture, known as a “quartation,” consists of gold, silver, and any impurities present in the original alloy.
The next step involves adding a carefully measured quantity of pure silver to the quartation. This addition serves to “in quartum,” or divide the mixture into four parts, creating a new alloy consisting of gold, silver, copper, and any other impurities that may have been present. This new alloy is then subjected to heat, and the impurities oxidize and are removed as slag.
The final result is a refined gold-silver alloy, known as a “doré,” which can be further processed to achieve the desired purity levels. This doré can undergo additional refining techniques like cupellation or electrolysis to obtain high-purity gold or silver, depending on the desired end product.
Inquartation is highly regarded for its ability to separate gold and silver effectively and for its precision in controlling the composition of the final alloy. This makes it a preferred choice in the jewelry industry, where specific gold-silver ratios are crucial for achieving the desired color and properties in jewelry items.
While modern technology has introduced more efficient methods, inquartation remains a respected and reliable technique in the field of gold refining. Its historical significance and continued relevance in achieving exceptional levels of purity in precious metals highlight its enduring importance in the world of metallurgy and jewelry making.
The Miller Chlorination Process: Precise Gold Refining through Chlorine
The Miller Chlorination Process is a well-established method for refining gold that has been relied upon for over a century. This process is renowned for its ability to achieve high levels of purity and remove impurities effectively, making it a valuable technique in the world of precious metal refining.
The Miller Chlorination Process is particularly suited for refining gold that contains platinum group metals (PGMs), which can be challenging to separate using other methods. The primary objective of this process is to selectively oxidize and remove impurities, leaving behind pure gold.
The process begins by placing the gold material, usually an alloy, in a furnace with chlorine gas. Under controlled conditions, the chlorine gas reacts with the impurities present in the gold, forming volatile metal chlorides. These metal chlorides are then carried away as gases, leaving behind a molten, purified gold. This volatile nature of metal chlorides makes them easily separable from the precious metal.
One of the key advantages of the Miller Chlorination Process is its ability to target a wide range of impurities, including base metals, PGMs, and other elements that may be present in the gold alloy. This selectivity allows for the production of exceptionally pure gold, meeting the stringent purity standards required for various applications, such as jewelry, electronics, and investment-grade bullion.
While the Miller Chlorination Process is highly effective in removing impurities, it requires careful control of temperature, chlorine flow rates, and other parameters to ensure a successful refining operation. This level of precision is essential to achieve the desired purity levels consistently.
In modern times, the Miller Chlorination Process has evolved with technological advancements, offering enhanced efficiency and environmental controls. It remains a preferred choice for large-scale gold refining operations, especially when dealing with complex alloys or gold-containing materials with diverse impurities.
The Wohlwill Electrolytic Process: Advancing Gold Refining with Precision
The Wohlwill Electrolytic Process is a sophisticated and highly precise method used in the refining of gold, known for its ability to produce exceptionally pure gold with minimal impurities. Named after its inventor, Emil Wohlwill, this electrochemical refining process has played a pivotal role in ensuring the quality and purity of gold used in various industries, including jewelry, electronics, and investment-grade bullion.
The Wohlwill Process begins with a feedstock of impure gold, typically in the form of doré or scrap gold, which can contain a range of impurities, such as base metals, platinum group metals (PGMs), and other trace elements. The key objective is to selectively separate these impurities from the gold, resulting in a final product of high purity.
The process involves immersing the impure gold into an electrolyte solution, usually consisting of hydrochloric acid or aqua regia. The gold serves as the anode, while a pure gold cathode is also immersed in the same solution. When an electric current is applied, gold ions from the anode migrate to the cathode, adhering to it and forming a deposit of pure gold. Simultaneously, impurities present in the anode material remain in the electrolyte solution or precipitate out as sludge.
The Wohlwill Electrolytic Process offers several distinct advantages. It can achieve extremely high levels of purity, often exceeding 99.99% gold content, meeting the stringent requirements of various industries. It also allows for precise control over the final gold product’s properties, including color and density, making it ideal for producing high-quality jewelry and electronic components.
Furthermore, this process is highly efficient and environmentally friendly. It minimizes waste production compared to some traditional refining methods, reducing the impact on the environment.
While the Wohlwill Electrolytic Process is recognized for its precision and effectiveness, it requires specialized equipment and a thorough understanding of electrochemistry and metallurgy. This level of sophistication is typically employed in large-scale refining operations, where the demand for high-purity gold is significant.
The Aqua Regia Process: Unleashing the Power of Royal Water in Gold Refining
The Aqua Regia Process, a time-tested and powerful technique in the world of metallurgy, is renowned for its ability to dissolve noble metals, particularly gold and platinum, and convert them into soluble chloroauric acid. This process, which derives its name from the Latin term “aqua regia” meaning “royal water,” has been instrumental in refining gold for centuries, owing to its exceptional effectiveness and versatility.
Aqua regia is a highly corrosive mixture of concentrated nitric acid (HNO3) and concentrated hydrochloric acid (HCl) in a precise ratio. This unique combination of acids is able to dissolve and oxidize noble metals, such as gold, by converting them into their respective chloroauric or chloroplatinic ions. The reaction with gold typically results in the formation of soluble gold chloride complexes.
The Aqua Regia Process is initiated by adding the concentrated mixture of nitric and hydrochloric acids to the gold material, which can be in various forms, including doré, scrap, or alloys. The acids attack the gold, dissolving it into solution, while any impurities, such as base metals and non-noble elements, remain unaffected. This selective dissolution is a key advantage of the process.
Once the gold is fully dissolved in the aqua regia solution, the next steps involve the removal of impurities and the recovery of the precious metal. Impurities can be removed through various techniques, such as precipitation, filtration, or solvent extraction, depending on the specific impurities present.
The final step in the Aqua Regia Process is the recovery of pure gold from the solution, typically through chemical reduction or electrolysis. This yields a high-purity gold product that can meet the demanding requirements of industries like jewelry making, electronics, and investment.
The Aqua Regia Process is renowned for its versatility, as it can be adapted to refine both small and large quantities of gold. Its effectiveness in dissolving noble metals and selectively separating impurities makes it an indispensable tool in the precious metal refining industry. However, it is crucial to note that aqua regia is a highly corrosive and dangerous substance, requiring careful handling and expertise in a controlled laboratory environment.
Gold Refining: Small-Scale Home Operation vs. Commercial Refinery - Costs and Requirements Revealed
For those intrigued by the allure of refining gold, understanding the costs and requirements of starting a venture is crucial. Whether you’re considering a small-scale home-based operation or contemplating the leap into a commercial refinery, both paths offer distinct advantages and challenges.
Small-Scale Home Gold Refining:
1. Cost-Efficiency: Starting small allows you to minimize upfront expenses. You can acquire basic equipment such as crucibles, safety gear, and chemicals without breaking the bank. This cost-effective approach is perfect for hobbyists or individuals looking to refine smaller quantities of gold.
2. Learning Opportunity: A small-scale setup offers a hands-on learning experience. You can experiment, refine your skills, and gain valuable insights into the gold refining process.
3. Limited Output: The downside of a home-based operation is the limited refining capacity. It’s not suitable for refining large volumes of gold, and the refining process may be slower.
4. Regulatory Considerations: Depending on your location, you may need permits or licenses for handling hazardous chemicals. Environmental and safety regulations must be followed diligently.
Commercial Refinery:
1. High Throughput: Commercial refineries have the capacity to process large quantities of gold efficiently. This is advantageous for businesses dealing with substantial volumes.
2. Advanced Technology: Commercial refineries invest in cutting-edge equipment, ensuring precision, consistency, and high-purity end products.
3. Regulatory Compliance: Commercial refineries have established protocols to meet environmental, safety, and legal regulations. They have the expertise to navigate these complexities.
4. Substantial Investment: Establishing a commercial refinery requires a significant upfront investment in equipment, personnel, and facilities. The initial costs can be substantial.
5. Market Access: Commercial refineries often have established relationships with buyers, providing easier access to markets for the refined gold.
Ultimately, the choice between a small-scale home-based operation and a commercial refinery depends on your goals, resources, and the scale of your endeavor. Hobbyists and those refining modest amounts of gold may find the cost-effectiveness of a home setup appealing, while businesses with higher throughput requirements may opt for the efficiency and capabilities of a commercial refinery. Whichever path you choose, a solid understanding of the costs, requirements, and regulations is essential for success in the world of gold refining.
Safety Tips for Home Gold Refining
Refining gold at home can be an exciting endeavor, but it comes with inherent risks. Safety should always be a top priority to ensure a secure and hazard-free refining process. Here are some essential safety tips for those embarking on home gold refining projects:
1. Education and Training: Before you start, educate yourself about the refining process thoroughly. Consider taking courses or seeking guidance from experienced refiners to understand the risks involved.
2. Protective Gear: Invest in proper safety equipment, including safety goggles, gloves, lab coats, and a well-ventilated workspace. These items shield you from chemicals, fumes, and potential splashes.
3. Adequate Ventilation: Ensure your refining area has adequate ventilation to dissipate harmful fumes. Consider using a fume hood or working near an open window with a fan to direct fumes outside.
4. Fire Safety: Have fire extinguishers and fire blankets readily available in case of accidents. Keep a safe distance from open flames, and never use them near volatile chemicals.
5. Chemical Handling: Follow precise instructions when handling chemicals, especially acids like nitric acid and hydrochloric acid. Store chemicals in designated containers, and keep them tightly sealed when not in use.
6. First Aid Kit: Keep a well-stocked first aid kit nearby to address minor injuries promptly.
7. Emergency Plan: Develop a safety plan, including contact information for emergency services and poison control. Share this information with someone who can assist you in case of accidents.
8. Personal Accountability: Always work with a clear mind and avoid distractions. Don’t rush the process, and remain vigilant at all times.
Remember that home gold refining can be dangerous, and even experienced individuals should exercise caution. Prioritize safety measures to protect yourself and those around you while enjoying the art and science of refining precious metals at home.
Disclaimer:
The information provided is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Gold refining involves potentially hazardous chemicals and processes, and individuals or businesses considering entering this field should seek guidance from experts and comply with all relevant local, state, and federal laws and regulations. Refining gold can be risky and should be approached with caution.
Smelting Gold Scrap




Unlocking Profit Potential in Refining Scrap Gold
Refining scrap gold can be a lucrative venture, offering individuals and businesses a pathway to profit while contributing to the recycling and sustainability efforts in the precious metals industry. In this section, we will delve into the profit potential of refining scrap gold, explore real-life case studies and examples of profitable refining businesses, and examine the key factors that influence profitability.
Profit Potential:
Refining scrap gold holds substantial profit potential due to several key factors:
Resource Efficiency: Scrap gold can be obtained from various sources, including jewelry, electronics, and dental materials. Recycling these items is resource-efficient, as it reduces the need for mining and minimizes environmental impact.
High Purity: Scrap gold often contains higher purity levels compared to newly mined gold. This can translate into a higher market value for the refined product.
Market Demand: The demand for gold remains robust in various industries, from jewelry to electronics and investments. This sustained demand provides a ready market for refined gold.
Refining Scrap Gold Case Studies and Examples:
Several successful refining businesses have leveraged the profit potential of scrap gold:
Precious Metal Refinery A: This refinery specializes in processing scrap gold from jewelry manufacturers. By efficiently recovering high-purity gold and other precious metals from jewelry scraps, they have built a profitable business with a steady stream of clients.
Electronic Waste Recycler B: This environmentally conscious business focuses on recycling electronic waste, extracting valuable metals like gold, silver, and platinum from discarded electronic components. Their commitment to sustainability has not only generated profits but also garnered positive attention from eco-conscious consumers.
Factors Influencing Profitability:
Profitability in scrap gold refining can be influenced by several critical factors:
Purity Levels: The higher the purity of the scrap gold, the more valuable the refined product will be. Proper assay and refining techniques are crucial to maximize profits.
Market Conditions: Fluctuations in gold prices can impact profitability. Timing the sale of refined gold to align with favorable market conditions is essential.
Operational Efficiency: Efficient refining processes and equipment can reduce costs and increase profitability.
Scale of Operations: Larger-scale refining operations may benefit from economies of scale, but smaller operations can also thrive with niche markets and personalized service.
Compliance and Regulations: Staying compliant with local and international regulations is crucial to avoid fines or legal issues that could erode profits.
In conclusion, the profit potential of refining scrap gold is substantial, with various businesses successfully capitalizing on this opportunity. Case studies highlight the success stories of those who have honed their refining processes and embraced sustainability.
To maximize profitability, refining businesses should focus on purity, market conditions, operational efficiency, scale, and regulatory compliance.
Does refining gold from computer parts yield any profit?
Refining gold from computer parts can potentially yield a profit, but it’s not a simple or guaranteed process. Here’s a brief overview:
- Potential: Computer parts, especially older ones, do contain small amounts of gold and other precious metals.
- Challenges:
- The amount of gold is very small, typically measured in grams per ton of e-waste.
- Extraction requires specialized equipment and knowledge.
- There are environmental and safety concerns due to the chemicals used.
- Legal regulations may apply, depending on your location.
- Costs involved:
- Collecting enough e-waste
- Equipment for extraction
- Chemicals and other materials
- Labor
- Proper disposal of remaining waste
- Profitability: Whether it’s profitable depends on:
- Scale of operation
- Efficiency of extraction process
- Current gold prices
- Local regulations and associated costs
Is Refining Scrap Gold Profitable?
Gold always holds value, regardless of how old it is or what condition it is in. Scrap gold is a lucrative business for many individuals. As a result, many people find themselves drawn to it. It’s possible to run a profitable scrap gold company if you know how to do it.
How much does it cost to build a Gold Refinery?
The average cost to set up a gold refinery is approx. USD9m to USD12m for setting up a 1MT gold refinery.
If you are interested to build a refinery and have that sort of money Contact Us directly and we can discuss it further.
How much does it Cost to Refine Gold?
The charges applied to refining gold come in three stages typically, but every refinery has a slightly different way to skin the cat! Here are main areas where costs will be applied.
Gold Refining Charges
Refining gold charges will change from refinery to refinery, some will price in grams whilst others in ounces and the charges will differ based on the purity. A range of purities where prices will differ cane be say 50 to 70% purity at one price, 70 to 90 once price and 90% and above another price still.
Its always best to bring a higher purity to a refinery as the payables are higher. I have seen some refineries offer say a 1% for lots over 50 ounces but always check if they are refining themselves to 995+ or refining part way then sending to another refinery for a higher purity level.
Some refineries charge for melting and others don’t, but rest assure if they don’t the price is baked into your gold refining charges somewhere along the line.
Gold Lab Testing Charges – Gold Fire Assay Method

Gold Fire Assay Method is the standard accepted by industry and is performed in a laboratory by a qualified professional, in some instances XRF or water/gravity methods are accepted but where possible always go with a refinery that’s giving you Fire Assay Method.
I have seen Fire Assay charges go from $30 to $100+, so always ask for a discount where possible or look at your total payable and decide if you should bring your gold to another refinery.
Why is fire Assay Method better than XRF?
An XRF analyzes the density of the material it’s measuring by bouncing waves through the metal and based on bounce rate it gives a purity level (that’s a very basic level understanding). The issue is that metals like Tungsten have the same density as gold and many precious metals dealers and pawnbrokers buying gold have been caught out by these fake gold scammers.


Gold Returns & Settlement
You want to get to as close to 100% payables on Gold Purity and Weight after Fire Assay results. This is where the cat skinning really occurs in many refineries the tricks of the trade are sleight of hand.
Some refineries pay a higher percentage and exclude the silver and other charge less and make silver payable. Think about that for a moment, do you want to be paid more in Gold or Silver? Trust me some clients just didn’t get it until we built a spreadsheet showing them the differences per ounce.
Some refineries even have been known to shave off purities from the output by the chemist to give the clients less payables. Remember is a scrupulous business to be in and it’s all about having a high turnover daily so you need more and more metal to make it work!
Then there is fixing the gold price for settlement, some choose to be unhedged (many mining companies opt for this) and many use the LBMA Gold Price which was formerly known as the LBMA AM or PM Fix (the name was allegedly changed to protect the innocent bankers accused of price fixing) whilst other traders like to hit the gold spot price.
When you are talking to a gold dealer he is looking to predict which way your order will be going (Buyer or Seller) and will shade the price accordingly, why does he do that? Well he needs to maximise his book and he has a slight moment of profit that he can run in the moment before closing out your position but rest assure if he gives you a price, then that is a firm price and you should always hold him to it!
My suggestion would be to never tell him if you are a Buyer of Seller! In some cases he will always know based on your profile, which is why you should wherever possible using a trading platform and fix the price yourself but do not the spread already has their profit baked into the price..
Many small traders will look at the Kitco app, this has a $1 spread and does not reflect the actual spot price you will deal on so get your refinery to give you market access to the Gold spot market so you can fix your own gold price.
Purity Levels in Gold: Understanding the Differences
When it comes to gold, purity is a critical factor that directly influences its value and applications. Purity is typically expressed in karats (k) or fineness, and it indicates the percentage of pure gold in a given alloy. Let’s delve into the details of gold purity levels, including differences between popular standards like 24k, 22k, and 18k, as well as the typical purity levels found in scrap or junk gold received by refineries.
Understanding Karats and Fineness:
24k Gold (99.9% Pure): 24k gold is considered pure gold, with no alloying metals mixed in. It is soft, malleable, and has a distinct bright yellow color. Jewelry made from 24k gold is relatively rare due to its softness, but it’s highly valued for its purity.
22k Gold (91.7% Pure): 22k gold contains 91.7% pure gold, with the remaining 8.3% comprising other metals, typically copper and silver. This alloy offers a good balance between purity and durability, making it suitable for intricate jewelry designs.
18k Gold (75% Pure): 18k gold is 75% pure gold, making it a popular choice for fine jewelry. The remaining 25% consists of various metals, enhancing its strength and durability while retaining a significant gold content.
Typical Purity Levels for Scrap or Junk Gold:
Scrap or junk gold can vary widely in purity, depending on its source and previous use. Typical purity levels for scrap gold received by refineries can range from as low as 9k (37.5% pure) to 18k or higher. Jewelry, dental crowns, electronic components, and gold coins are common sources of scrap gold.
Refineries play a crucial role in processing scrap gold, employing various techniques like the Aqua Regia Process or the Wohlwill Electrolytic Process to extract and refine the pure gold content. Once refined, the gold can be returned to the market as high-quality bullion or used in the production of new jewelry and other precious metal items.
Understanding these purity levels is essential, as it impacts the value and potential applications of gold. Whether you’re dealing with pure 24k gold or refining scrap gold, knowing the gold’s purity is a fundamental aspect of working with this precious metal.
What Impurities are found in Gold?
Impurities are often found in gold that has been refined by amalgamation or cyanidation. These impurities might include zinc, copper, silver, and iron.
How do you take Impurities out of gold?
Acid Method – Aqua Regia Process
Getting contaminants to separate from the gold is the most important step in the purification process. The combination of nitric acid and hydrochloric acid is known as aqua regia, and it is a very toxic substance. This combination is far more potent than each of the acids taken on its own.
What Colour is Pure Gold?

Orange Yellow Colour
Pure gold which is 24K or 999.9 has a bright, almost orange-yellow colour; nonetheless, pure gold is uncommon in nature. It usually forms as a crystal structure with other elements such as silver or copper.
Can you Melt different Karats of Gold together?
Separate molds need to be used for each colour. Karats can be combined, however doing so will produce an alloy that has an odd number of karats.
How do I convert 24k gold to 14k?
Pure 24k gold must be mixed with the appropriate proportion of other metals in order to make 14k gold from 24k. To make 14k, we require 58 percent pure 24k gold in 14 of the 24 components, whereas 42 percent (or 10 components) are other metals.
How much Gold is Lost when Melted?
Melt or mass losses account for 1 percent to 2.5 percent of total losses in gold refining, whereas assay or under karat losses account for 1.5 percent to 2.5 percent.
How is Pure Gold Molded, given that gold's melting point is considered high?
Pure gold, characterized by its high melting point, can be skillfully shaped using a variety of techniques that do not require reaching its elevated melting temperature. These methods include:
Cold Working: Gold’s malleability and ductility are evident even at room temperature, allowing skilled artisans to shape and form it through techniques such as hammering, rolling, or pressing without the necessity of heating it to its high melting point.
Casting: Rather than melting pure gold, craftsmen often utilize the lost-wax casting method. This approach involves creating a wax model of the desired shape, surrounding it with a mold, and then heating the mold to remove the wax, creating a cavity. Molten gold, at a lower temperature than its high melting point, is then poured into the cavity, taking the shape of the original wax model.
Gold Alloys: By blending pure gold with other metals like copper or silver, the resulting alloy has a higher melting point, making it more workable while still retaining the desired gold color and properties.
Electroforming: In the electroplating process known as electroforming, a thin layer of gold is deposited onto a surface, allowing for precise shaping and detailing without subjecting the entire piece to the high melting point of gold.
Is Raw Gold worth more than processed Gold?
While the market price of refined raw gold determines the value of gold, the type of gold you own may be worth more than that. If you’re looking to invest in gold, look for gold nuggets in the outback/bush off local miners or very rare bars from renown dealers.
Following the CPU, memory, and circuit board fingers/connectors / pins are the next most valuable metals by weight, with circuit boards and hard drives coming in at the end of the list.
Is Scrap Gold worth Less?
It is common for gold purchasers to pay only around 70% of the current gold market price for your scrap gold in order to cover their smelting and refining expenses as well as their own profit margin. If you want, so make sure you look around for the best terms because you can get much higher than that in most parts of the world.

What does Borax do when Melting Gold?
In the melting of Gold and Silver, Borax aids in the removal of Oxides and other impurities, and produces a fluid borate slag that accumulates on the metal’s surface. A carbon-graphite or clay rod is regularly used to remove the slag.
Who do Gold Miners sell their Gold to?
Bullion banks act as the gold market’s go-between giving miners long term off take agreements which a miner can bring to a local bank and secure additional loans for equipment. Miners produce gold, but they may not do so at the same time as buyers want to purchase the metal.
Banks serve as a type of clearing house: when the gold mining company produces enough gold and wishes to sell, they may do so to the bank who will pay them either on wheels up with a high value logistics and security company who confirms the pick up and is 100% insured. Payments are made up to 95% of what is shipped based on the arrangements between the mining company and the bank, however this will be much less if a jurisdiction is more high risk.
Consumers may ultimately purchase that gold once it has been refined by the banks designated refinery but consumers can purchase the gold directly via the bank which is typically overpriced to retail buyers, so again shop around because banks are not the best place to buy gold!
Selling Gold: Navigating the Best Options for Individuals and Small Miners
When it comes to selling gold, individuals and small-scale miners often face various choices and challenges. The decision of how to sell your gold can significantly impact your returns. Here, we explore some valuable tips on the best ways for individuals and small miners to sell their gold, including considerations when working directly with refineries versus other buyers, and important factors like transportation, permits, taxes, and more.
Working Directly with Refineries:
Maximizing Purity: Selling gold directly to refineries can be advantageous, as they typically pay premium prices for high-purity gold. If you have access to pure gold or can refine it yourself, this route can be profitable.
Streamlined Process: Refineries have established procedures for assessing gold, ensuring a straightforward and efficient selling process. This can save you time and effort compared to dealing with multiple intermediaries.
Transparency: Refineries often provide detailed reports and transparency about the gold’s purity and value, giving sellers confidence in the transaction.
Other Buyers and Considerations:
Local Buyers and Jewelers: Selling to local jewelers or buyers is an option, especially if you have smaller quantities of gold. However, prices offered may be lower than those from refineries due to the additional markup these buyers require.
Online Marketplaces: Online platforms and auction sites can be used to sell gold, but exercise caution to avoid scams. Ensure you are dealing with reputable buyers and verify their credentials.
Key Factors to Consider:
Transportation: Safely transporting your gold to the buyer or refinery is crucial. Use insured and secure methods, especially for larger quantities.
Permits and Regulations: Be aware of local regulations and permits required for selling gold. Compliance with legal requirements is essential to avoid legal issues.
Taxes: Understand the tax implications of selling gold in your region. Some jurisdictions may tax capital gains from the sale of precious metals.
Market Timing: Monitor gold prices and consider selling when the market is favorable to maximize your returns.
Negotiation: When dealing with buyers, be prepared to negotiate. Having a clear understanding of your gold’s value and purity will empower you in these discussions.
Which Gold Refinery is best?
- PAMP, Switzerland
- Metalor Technologies, Switzerland
- Argor-Heraeus, Switzerland
- Valcambi, Switzerland
- Heraeus, Germany

Spencer Campbell
Director SE Asia Consulting - Precious Metals Consultant