Gold purity is not guessed it is measured through rigorous, time-tested methods that leave no room for error. In African export operations, where trust hinges on verifiable proof, fire assay remains the undisputed gold standard. AFRICA GOLD relies exclusively on this method across its network of accredited labs in Ghana, South Africa, and South Sudan to ensure every shipment meets the 999.9 fineness required by global refineries.
Fire Assay: The Global Benchmark
Fire assay is a destructive, high-temperature process that separates gold from impurities using lead and fluxes. It involves:
- Sampling: A representative portion of gold is taken.
- Fusion: Mixed with flux and melted in a furnace (~1,100°C).
- Cupellation: Molten lead absorbs base metals; pure gold remains.
- Weighing: The final bead is weighed to calculate exact fineness.
Accredited labs (PMMC, SABS, ISO 17025) perform this method because it delivers accuracy within ±0.5 parts per thousand far surpassing handheld devices.
Why Handheld XRF Is Not Enough
Many buyers ask about XRF (X-ray fluorescence) guns but these only scan surface purity and fail with uneven or plated material. AFRICA GOLD uses them only for preliminary screening in the field. Final certification always requires fire assay. No reputable refinery accepts XRF alone for payment-grade gold.
The Role of Accreditation
Not all labs are equal. AFRICA GOLD works only with:
- Ghana: PMMC-approved facilities
- South Africa: SABS-registered labs
- South Sudan: Mobile units certified to ISO 17025
Certificates must include:
- Lab accreditation number
- Sample ID matching chain-of-custody logs
- Authorized signature and wet-ink stamp
Digital copies are never accepted as primary proof.
Why Purity Measurement Builds Buyer Confidence
When purity is proven through fire assay not claimed buyers gain certainty in weight, value, and refinery acceptance. This eliminates disputes, delays, and losses.
Conclusion
Gold purity is measured not by convenience, but by scientific rigor. By relying on fire assay in accredited labs, AFRICA GOLD ensures every gram exported is exactly what it claims to be: 999.9 fine, legally sourced, and globally bankable. For buyers, this isn’t technical detail it’s the foundation of trust.
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