Step 9: Analyzing the Metal

The jewelry item will be weighed in grams and then the weight of anything non-metal (such as diamonds or other gemstones) will be deducted from the initial weight. The metal will then be tested to determine what it is; some countries apply a Hallmark that will be stamped on the item guaranteeing what the metal is.

Testing the metal can be done by various methods. Touch acid testing involves scrapping a small amount of metal and then applying a small drop of acid, each acid will be an indicator to the metal type. The precious metal prices change daily and the price paid per gram will be the price on the day of valuation.