In the world of auctions, accuracy is everything. Whether handling fine art, antiques or rare pottery, trust is the foundation of any auction house’s reputation. Ensuring precise valuations when dealing in gold and silver is essential to keep our buyers and sellers happy and protect from potential fraud and inaccuracies. That’s where our new precious metals analyser comes in!
This cutting-edge metal testing device offers a fast, non-destructive, and highly accurate way to test the purity of items for auction in mere seconds. It’s an indispensable tool that we’ve recently added to our arsenal, which very few jewellers and auction rooms have at their disposal. This means that we offer a valuation service that many others in our industry simply can’t.
Check it out in action with a demonstration from our resident gold expert, Rod, over on our Facebook page!
What is a Precious Metals Analyser?
A precious metals analyser is a sophisticated device that uses X-ray fluorescence (XRF) technology to determine the exact composition of metals. In a matter of seconds, it identifies the purity and authenticity of gold, silver, platinum and other precious metals, showing the percentage of different components without damaging the item being tested.
Traditionally, valuing gold and silver involves manual methods such as acid testing and touchstone comparison, both of which are time-consuming, subjective and sometimes destructive. A precious metals analyser eliminates these drawbacks. This way, we can provide fast, accurate and non-destructive results to our customers easily.
The Key Benefits of Using a Precious Metals Tester for Auction Valuations
Unparalleled Accuracy in Valuations
The value of gold and silver depends on their purity. Even a small miscalculation in karat weight can mean a significant price difference, potentially leading to financial loss or disputes. A precious metals analyser delivers precise readings to ensure that your items are never undervalued or overvalued. The difference in value can be quite enormous – sometimes hundreds, if not thousands of pounds!
Detects Fraud and Counterfeits
With counterfeit gold and silver becoming increasingly sophisticated, relying on traditional assessment methods is risky. Fake gold coins and bars often contain tungsten cores, while silver-plated jewellery can be easily mistaken for solid silver.
Our portable precious metals analyser can instantly detect plated metals, alloys and hidden base metals to safeguard everyone involved from unknowingly buying or selling mislabelled items.
Faster, More Efficient Valuations
Time is money in the auction world. A precious metals analyser provides results in seconds, streamlining our valuation process and allowing our team to catalogue items more efficiently.
Non-Destructive Testing
Some gold and silver items, particularly antique jewellery and rare coins, are too delicate to be subjected to traditional testing methods that involve scratching or applying acids. The last thing you want is to damage a valuable lot before it even reaches auction.
With an XRF analyser, testing is completely non-destructive. It preserves the item’s condition and historical integrity while still ensuring an accurate valuation.
Buy and Sell Gold and Silver Items with Confidence at Potteries Auctions
Not only does our new metals analyser streamline our cataloguing process, but it guarantees that you can bid safe in the knowledge that pieces of gold and silver jewellery and more are exactly as described. It also allows us to do complete justice to our vendors by listing items for auction with the utmost precision. We’re excited to see this device enhance our auctions as we begin the new year!
If you’re looking to buy gold and silver at auction, then check out our upcoming auctions and scroll through the available online catalogues to see if something catches your eye. You can also subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on all the best upcoming lots.
If you’re looking for an expert evaluation of your gold and silver items, then please get in touch with us. Free valuation days are held every Tuesday at our Silverdale saleroom. To book an appointment, use our online booking form here. You can also email us at enquiries@potteriesauctions.com or call us at +44 (0)1782 638100.
Due to popular demand, we have also started to offer a private valuation service for premium items. Please contact us directly to arrange an appointment by emailing amy@potteriesauctions.com.