In the gold trading and jewelry manufacturing industries, accurately determining the gold’s purity and the composition of precious metals is not only essential for correct valuation but also crucial in avoiding significant financial losses. However, the issue of counterfeit gold—especially gold mixed with tungsten—is becoming increasingly prevalent and alarmingly sophisticated. This article offers a comprehensive overview of the current state of counterfeit gold, common detection methods, and introduces the free gold testing service using XRF technology at PMAC – the official distributor of Thermo Fisher equipment in Vietnam.
1. The Growing Sophistication of Counterfeit Gold
The precious metals market is witnessing a surge in technical fraud schemes, most notably the mixing of tungsten (W) into pure gold. Tungsten has a density very close to gold (approximately 19.3 g/cm³) and is much cheaper, making it a popular choice for fraudsters. This manipulation is almost impossible to detect with the naked eye. These fake gold products are not only limited to bullion but also appear in the form of jewelry, wedding rings, chains, and even items stamped with convincing 24K markings.
More alarmingly, when these items are bought, recycled, or resold, detecting the fraud becomes difficult without advanced analytical equipment. Many jewelers have lost tens of millions of VND due to mistakenly buying fake gold—only discovering the truth during melting or refining, when it’s already too late.
Therefore, quick, accurate, and non-destructive testing has become a critical need for any business operating in the jewelry and precious metals industry.
2. Current Methods for Testing Gold
Before the advent of modern testing devices, gold traders mainly relied on experience and traditional methods to distinguish real from fake gold. However, as counterfeit techniques evolve, these older methods reveal significant limitations, particularly in accuracy, product safety, and scalability.
2.1 Acid Testing
This is the oldest method still used in some small shops. A drop of nitric acid is applied to the gold’s surface to observe the chemical reaction. Pure gold (especially 24K) will not react, while bubbling, discoloration, or staining indicates a mix or plating. However, this method is only suitable for raw bullion and not delicate jewelry, and it can damage the item.
2.2 Density Testing
This method uses the principle that each metal has a specific density. Pure gold has a density of around 19.3 g/cm³—much higher than common alloying metals like copper, silver, or nickel. By measuring mass and volume (typically via water displacement), one can calculate density and compare it to standards. However, this method is less effective with complex alloys and requires precise technique.
2.3 Magnet Test
Since pure gold is not magnetic, any attraction to a strong magnet indicates the item is not 100% gold. This trick is popular among casual consumers but unreliable because many fake alloys are also non-magnetic.
2.4 Fire Test
The phrase “fire tests gold” is not just a metaphor. Gold melts at 1,064°C, so under a simple flame, it should not change color or melt. If it turns black or distorts, it’s likely fake. However, lower-karat gold like 10K or 9K may react due to other metals, making this method suitable only for pure gold and primarily for reference.
2.5 Testing at Certified Laboratories
Trusted labs like SJC, DOJI, PNJ Lab offer reliable testing using advanced equipment and trained specialists. This is commonly required in high-value transactions or legal appraisals. While accurate and safe, this method is time-consuming, expensive, and impractical for businesses that need to test hundreds of samples daily.
2.6 Using X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) Spectrometers
Among all methods, XRF (X-ray fluorescence) spectrometry is considered the best for accuracy, speed, and non-destructive testing. It analyzes the elemental composition and gold content within seconds.
The machine emits X-rays that excite the atoms in the sample, causing them to emit characteristic fluorescence. The device then reads this to determine the presence and percentages of elements like Gold (Au), Silver (Ag), Copper (Cu), Zinc (Zn), Nickel (Ni), Tungsten (W), and others.
3. Thermo Fisher XRF – The Modern Gold Testing Solution
3.1 DXL 800 Gold Analyzer by Thermo Fisher
In response to increasingly sophisticated counterfeit gold, advanced technology like the XRF analyzer is becoming essential for jewelry businesses. The Thermo Fisher Scientific XRF line, especially the Niton DXL800 model, is a market leader and trusted by thousands of jewelers and labs worldwide.
Thermo Fisher Scientific, based in the USA, is a global leader in analytical and measuring instruments. Its XRF analyzers, particularly the Niton DXL800, are purpose-built for the jewelry industry to detect gold, silver, copper, nickel, tungsten, and more with high speed and precision.
3.2 Key Advantages of the DXL800:
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Non-destructive testing: Can test directly on jewelry, bullion, watches, or valuable parts without damaging the item.
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Fast results: Provides readings in just 3–10 seconds via a touch screen display.
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High accuracy: Detects elements at concentrations as low as 0.01%.
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Detects gold plating: Advanced algorithms can identify gold-plated items covering different metal cores.
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User-friendly interface: No technical expertise required; intuitive software ensures ease of use.
With these advantages, the DXL800 is widely used in gold quality labs, manufacturing plants, and major jewelry stores globally.
4. PMAC – Official Distributor of Thermo Fisher XRF in Vietnam
In Vietnam, PMAC Analytical Solutions JSC is the official distributor of Thermo Fisher’s specialized XRF analyzers for precious metals. With over 10 years of experience in analytical equipment, PMAC offers not only genuine products but also full after-sales support:
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Customized consultation based on store, workshop, or lab needs
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On-site installation and operation training, with Vietnamese manuals
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12–24 month warranties and lifetime technical support
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Free user training, even post-warranty
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Rapid spare parts and repair services to minimize downtime
PMAC is a trusted partner of many major jewelry brands across Vietnam, from retail chains to high-end manufacturing workshops. With deep expertise in both application and market demand, PMAC is the go-to solution provider for reliable, long-term gold analysis.
5. Free Gold Testing at PMAC – Experience Cutting-Edge Technology
To make advanced testing more accessible, PMAC has launched a Free Gold Testing Program for individuals and businesses needing to verify gold quality.
5.1 What the service includes:
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Purity analysis from 10K to 24K based on international standards
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Instant elemental breakdown: Au, Ag, Cu, Zn, Ni, W, etc.
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Purity verification and impurity detection
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Immediate on-site results with optional printed report
Customers can bring their gold items directly to PMAC’s office or attend special events hosted by the company. The service is completely free, non-destructive, and requires no purchase commitment.
5.2 Who should use this service?
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Jewelry store owners verifying incoming inventory
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Consumers checking old or inherited gold
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Businesses testing samples at customer request
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Physical gold investors confirming asset authenticity
6. Conclusion
With counterfeit gold technology advancing rapidly, gold purity testing is no longer optional—it’s essential for protecting assets, brand reputation, and customer trust. Thermo Fisher’s XRF analyzers are the fastest, most accurate, and safest solution available today. If you’re not ready to invest in equipment, visit PMAC for a free gold testing experience—a small step that could prevent a major loss.
Contact us now for consultation or to schedule your free gold test:
PMAC – PMAC Analytical Solutions JSC
Address: High-Tech Center, 4th Floor, HUTECH Building, D1 Street, High-Tech Park, Long Thanh My Ward, Thu Duc City
Website: https://pmac.asia/
Hotline: +84 938 085 278