With gold and silver values hitting historic benchmarks, the authenticity of your portfolio is a financial imperative. For the discerning investor, "trust" is good, but verification is better.
This guide details the Specific Gravity Method—a scientifically sound, non-destructive technique based on Archimedes’ Principle. It allows you to verify the density of your bullion at home without scratching, melting, or chemically altering the metal.
The Science: Specific Gravity (SG)
Specific Gravity is a ratio comparing the density of a substance to the density of water. Counterfeiters can mimic the look of gold, but they struggle to mimic its density.
The Protocol: Performing the Test
- Dry Weight: Weigh the item on a precision scale (0.01g accuracy).
- Water Bath: Place a cup of distilled water on the scale and tare it to zero.
- Displacement: Suspend the item in the water using a thin string. Do not let it touch the bottom. Record the weight.
- Calculate: Divide Dry Weight by Displacement Weight.
The Tungsten Problem
Tungsten has a density of 19.25, nearly identical to gold's 19.30. A thick gold plating over a tungsten core can fool a specific gravity test.
Defense in Depth: Combine SG testing with magnetic testing (gold is diamagnetic) or ultrasonic testing for high-value bars.
Trust But Verify
At Liberty Gold Silver, we believe an educated investor is a secure investor.