Gold testing method

Our store buys old gold rings, chains, etc. every day from
customers. Then we send the gold to our refinery for a cash
settlement (usually once a month). I guess I am ‘old school’ when it
comes to testing gold. We read the stamps, feel the weight, look at
the color, and sometimes use acid. We always have a percentage of
error but it is very small. Today I read an article in a trade
journal about the electronic gold testers. One was in the $400 range
and one in the $90 range. What I would like to know is, are the
electronic testers reliable and worth the money?

Thanks in advance for your advice.
Dale Pavatte
Diamonds For You, Decherd, TN

I have a small jewelry store which is going through the same hard
times as everyone. I have read several articles on stores that have
had some success buying gold. What is a fair rate to pay when buying
gold and what is a good testing method? Are the battery operated
testers that give karat accurate or if not what is recommended?

thanks Dave Owen

One was in the $400 range and one in the $90 range. What I would
like to know is, are the electronic testers reliable and worth the
money? 

I was looking at hand held metal testers, they worked by using a
special laser (well that was the impression I got), they were very
accurate, but they were thousands of dollars.

Regards Charles A.

Stuller carries two gold testers that do not use gel or acid… we
have had excellent results from customer on both. You can see them
on the web-site… We also have the Mizar tester which uses a liquid…
and is in the lower price point. If I can answer any question…
please contact me…

Andy “The Tool Guy” Kroungold