Understanding XRF Gold Testing: How It Actually Works

If you’ve sold gold at a reputable dealer, you’ve probably seen your item placed under a small handheld or benchtop device before a price is quoted. That’s an XRF (X-ray fluorescence) analyser, and it’s the closest thing the industry has to a definitive, non-destructive purity test.

What XRF actually measures

The device fires a low-level X-ray at the surface of your item. Different metals fluoresce — emit their own characteristic X-ray energy — in response, and the analyser reads that signature to identify exactly which metals are present and in what proportion. Within seconds, it returns a purity reading far more precise than a visual inspection or a hallmark alone.

Why it beats older methods

• Acid testing can damage jewellery and only gives an approximate purity band.
• Hallmarks tell you what an item was stamped as when made — not necessarily what it still is, especially with older, repaired, or plated pieces.
• The magnet test only rules out some obvious fakes; plenty of fake gold is non-magnetic too.

XRF doesn’t damage your item, doesn’t rely on trusting an old stamp, and gives a specific percentage rather than a rough estimate.

What it means for your quote

Once purity is confirmed, your payout is calculated from three numbers: purity (from the XRF reading), weight (from calibrated scales), and the live spot price on the day. A transparent dealer will walk you through each step rather than presenting a single unexplained figure.

Does XRF only read the surface?

It’s a fair question, since XRF technically measures the surface layer. This is why reputable buyers combine XRF with a visual and physical inspection — checking for gold-plated base metal, weighted items, or filled pieces — rather than relying on the reading in isolation.

What to expect at Top Gold

Every item is tested with XRF technology at our counter, in full view, before we quote a price. You’ll see the purity reading, the weight, and the live spot rate used to calculate your offer. Book a free valuation — no appointment needed.