How Gold Purity is Tested
Fire assay, XRF & certified verification in Uganda
24K Pure Gold Bars
Invest in certified 24K gold bars with 999.9 purity, sourced directly from Scandinavian refineries.
Investment Grade Coins
Secure your wealth with government-minted gold coins, ideal for both investment and collection.
Secure Storage Solutions
Professional vault storage with full insurance coverage for your precious metal investments.
For international investors and bullion dealers, verifying gold purity is non‑negotiable. At Gold Traders International, we employ rigorous testing methods — from classic fire assay to modern XRF — to guarantee the quality of every shipment. Our Kampala laboratory is staffed by certified metallurgists and our reports are accepted by refineries worldwide.
⚖️ Why Gold Purity Matters
Purity determines value, liquidity, and acceptance in the global market. Even small deviations can result in significant financial discrepancies. Trusted licensed gold dealers in Uganda like Gold Traders International provide independent verification so you can buy with confidence.
- Fair pricing: Payment is based on exact purity, not estimates.
- Regulatory compliance: Export permits require verified purity.
- Refinery acceptance: Major refineries only accept gold with accredited assay certificates.
🔥 Fire Assay – The Gold Standard
How Fire Assay Works
A small sample (typically 250‑500 mg) is weighed, mixed with fluxes, and heated to over 1000°C. The gold separates and is weighed again. The process eliminates all impurities, giving a definitive purity reading to 0.01%.
Why It’s the Reference
Fire assay is the method used by LBMA refiners and central banks. It is destructive but provides the most accurate result. Our lab follows strict ISO/IEC 17025 procedures.
📡 XRF Spectrometry – Rapid & Non‑Destructive
XRF in Seconds
X‑ray fluorescence (XRF) analysers emit X‑rays that cause the gold to emit secondary X‑rays characteristic of its elemental composition. The result is instantaneous and non‑destructive.
Best for Screening
Ideal for checking homogeneity and detecting surface plating. We use XRF on every bar and nugget before fire assay to ensure representative sampling.
📄 Laboratory Verification & Certification
All testing at Gold Traders International is documented in a formal Certificate of Analysis. The certificate includes:
- Unique certificate number and date
- Sample weight and method used (fire assay or XRF)
- Purity expressed as a percentage and in fineness (e.g., 999.9)
- Signature of the chief assayer and lab stamp
- Accreditation reference (ISO 17025, in process)
Certificates can be verified by contacting our lab or through the Precious Metals Authority Uganda.
🛡️ How Gold Traders International Ensures Purity
UK Registered & Uganda Licensed
UK Companies House #13456982 · Uganda Precious Metals Dealer License #UPMD/2024/112. We operate under the oversight of the Ministry of Energy & Mineral Development.
Certified Metallurgists
Our team includes assayers trained at the Colorado School of Mines and the University of the Witwatersrand, with decades of combined experience.
Client Witnessing
International buyers are welcome to witness the entire testing process in our Kampala lab. We also coordinate with independent inspectors like SGS.
Digital Certificates
Every certificate includes a QR code for online verification, ensuring authenticity and traceability.
💎 Gold Products We Certify
🔗 Explore Uganda’s Gold Market
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most accurate method for testing gold purity?
Fire assay is the internationally recognised standard for determining gold purity, with accuracy to 0.01%. It involves melting a sample and separating impurities.
How does XRF testing work and is it reliable?
XRF (X‑ray fluorescence) is a non‑destructive method that measures elemental composition. It is reliable for surface analysis and screening, but fire assay is preferred for final certification.
What certificates should I request when buying gold?
You should request a certificate of analysis from an accredited lab, detailing the purity, method used, and signature of the assayer. Gold Traders International provides LBMA‑standard certificates.
Can I witness the testing of my gold in Kampala?
Yes, we welcome buyers to our Kampala assay lab to witness sampling and testing. You can also appoint an independent inspector.
How do I verify that a certificate is authentic?
Authentic certificates include a unique reference number, date, and contact details of the lab. You can verify with the issuing lab or through the Precious Metals Authority Uganda.
🌐 Official & Industry Resources
Ensure your gold investment is pure and certified. Contact our team for verified testing.
Contact Us Call Now