Unlocking the Secrets of Precious Metal Ores: Expert Advice from Specialty Metals
When it comes to precious metal ores, there are a few essential steps and key pieces of advice to consider. As someone who frequently receives calls about processing ores, Dan Fried, founder and CEO of Specialty Metals, Smelters, and Refiners, has valuable insights for anyone who believes they have struck gold—or any other precious metal.
The Initial Inquiry: Do You Process Ores?
The first step for anyone with potential ore is to contact a reputable precious metal processor like Specialty Metals. It's crucial to start with the right question: “Do you process ores?” This opens the door to the next critical step—verification and analysis.
The Importance of Professional Analysis
One of the biggest mistakes people make is relying on x-ray guns or Niton guns for analysis. While these tools might seem convenient, they are not suitable for low-grade precious metals. X-ray guns can be misled by various substances in the ore, creating false positives and leading you to believe you have found something valuable when you haven't. Instead, professional analysis is essential.
Preparing Your Ore: From Rocks to Powder
Before sending your ore for analysis, proper preparation is key. The ore should be granulated, smashed, or milled into a homogeneous powder. Sending rocks in their raw form is not useful and only adds unnecessary work for the processing facility. Pulverizing the material ensures a more accurate analysis and speeds up the process.
Methods for Accurate Analysis
For a reliable evaluation of your ore, it’s important to use appropriate laboratory methods. Fire assay, atomic absorption, and ICP (Inductively Coupled Plasma) are the recommended techniques. These methods provide a precise measure of the metal content in the ore, unlike x-ray guns, which are ineffective for this purpose.
Costs and Expectations
There are costs associated with ore analysis, and these can vary. Specialty Metals offers quotes for their services, ensuring you know what to expect before proceeding. It's important to note that most ores are low grade, often containing only one to three percent of various metals. Accurate lab testing is the only way to determine the true value of the ore.
Contact Information
If you think you have precious metal ore and are considering professional analysis, Dan Fried and his team at Specialty Metals are ready to assist. You can reach them at:
Phone: 800-426-2344
Email: sales@specialtymetals.com
Navigating the world of precious metal ores can be complex, but with the right guidance and preparation, you can ensure a more accurate and rewarding experience. By following these steps and seeking professional help, you can avoid common pitfalls and accurately determine the value of your ore.
For more information and expert advice, stay connected with Specialty Metals and keep following our blog for the latest insights and tips.
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