Selling your gold in Quebec City
Our evaluation process
Welcome to Montreal Gold
If you would like to receive a free appraisal of your valuables and a written offer from us, simply visit our Montreal store. No appointment is necessary. The appraisal will take place in your presence, and we will explain the appraisal process for your precious metals in detail and present our findings to you. To learn more about our methods for appraising precious metals, please continue reading.
The assessment
Step 1: Initial metal analysis
We begin by using a powerful magnet to separate non-precious metals from gold and silver. Since gold and silver are not magnetic, this preliminary test allows us to quickly identify objects that are unlikely to be precious metals.
Step 2: Sorting by carat and fineness
Since ancient times, the purity of gold has been defined by the term karat, which represents 1/24 of the weight of pure gold. Pure gold is equivalent to 24 karats. Gold can also be described by its fineness, which is the amount of pure gold in parts per 1000. For example, a 14k gold ring contains 585 parts per 1000 of gold (58.5%) and 417 parts (41.7%) of other metals.
Once the non-precious metals have been separated, we examine each piece to determine whether it bears a hallmark. Some pieces are marked in karats (K), such as 10K, 14K, or 18K, while others use fineness, represented by a three-digit number such as 750 (which corresponds to 18K gold). A karat hallmark is a good indicator of the metal's purity, although additional testing may be necessary to verify it.
If a hallmark is not immediately visible, we use a jeweler's loupe, a magnifying tool that allows us to examine details closely. Hallmarks can sometimes be worn or hidden in small areas, such as earring posts or the inside of rings.
After identifying the hallmarks, we carefully sort and organize your items by carat or fineness, right before your eyes, to ensure complete transparency. Items with no visible hallmarks are set aside for further testing.
Carat validation
To confirm the purity of your gold, we perform one or more non-invasive tests: an acid resistance test, a specific gravity (or density) test, and/or an X-ray fluorescence test.
As a client, you will be able to observe our team at every stage of this process, and they will always be ready to explain what they are doing and answer your questions throughout the process.
Acid resistance test
The acid resistance test involves gently rubbing the item on a smooth touchstone (similar to slate) and comparing the metal's reaction to that of known samples. The scratch makes a fine mark on the stone (not on the jewelry). If the result is conclusive, this test may be the only verification necessary.
The acid test is a simple and very effective method of determining or verifying the purity of jewelry. The acid is a mixture of nitric acid and muriatic (hydrochloric) acid and is used to react with a sample of gold. The higher the karat, the higher the concentration of acid required for the test.
If the item is not stamped, we start by using 10 kt acid and compare your «unknown» item to a test key (a sample of gold whose purity is known). The unknown mark must remain very bright and solid. If the scratch fades, we return the item to the customer, as we cannot purchase unmarked items that do not pass the 10 kt acid test.
If the scratch remains vivid, we repeat the test with 14 kt acid. If the object passes the 10 kt test but fails the 14 kt test, we know that it is a 10 kt object. If the object passes the 14 kt test, we continue testing with increasingly stronger acids.
Specific gravity measuring device
By measuring their specific gravity, we can confirm purity levels without damaging your items.
Specific gravity (SG) is the ratio between the density of a substance and the density of a reference substance, usually distilled water. Specific gravity analysis can be used to determine the karat weight of gold. Each metal has a specific gravity that can be calculated when immersed in water. This testing method is completely non-destructive.
The density test is very accurate and effective for solid, heavy objects such as solid gold, coins, ingots, and chains. Objects with «cavities» or containing stones are more likely to trap air bubbles underwater and affect the calculation.
We weigh the object once on a standard scale and once underwater. The difference in weight determines the density of the object. Since gold is one of the densest elements, we can determine whether the objects are gold-plated or solid gold.
X-ray fluorescence (XRF) testing
If visual inspection and scratch testing methods do not yield clear results, items can be tested using X-ray fluorescence.
A state-of-the-art machine accurately analyzes the composition of the metal. We use this machine, if necessary, only after resorting to other verification methods.
The use of an X-ray machine is an excellent tool for determining the karat of an item or helping to discover what the item is made of. The X-ray machine is particularly useful for small items, such as thin or small chains, small earrings, and dental gold.
Once testing is complete, a comprehensive report indicates the percentages of gold content as well as other alloy metals such as copper, silver, or zinc.
If additional tests are necessary, we will explain the procedure to you before proceeding.
Step 3: Weighing
Once sorted, we weigh your items using a high-precision calibrated scale. You are welcome to observe this process, and if you wish, we can weigh individual items separately for your reference.
Step 4: Quote
Our payment is based on the purity, weight, and current market price of gold, silver, or other metals. We will make you a clear and straightforward offer, with no pressure or obligation. You can decide to sell all or only part of what you have brought in, depending on our offer. If a final test is necessary to confirm the authenticity of an item (for example, by cutting thick-plated items), we will always ask for your permission beforehand.
Purchase
We never charge for tests or estimates, and if you decide to sell, we pay you immediately, with no hidden fees. We will strive to offer you higher cash payments whenever possible, or we will pay you by check.
Thank you for your attention.
We appreciate the trust you place in Canada Gold. Our commitment to transparency and service excellence is why so many customers return and recommend us to their friends and family. Feel free to compare offers—we are confident that our expertise, integrity, and best price guarantee make us the most trustworthy gold buyer in Canada.
Are you ready to have your gold appraised? Contact us toll-free at 1-888-219-7001 or visit one of our regional offices. 17 locations across Canada.