What is XRF testing?
Professional XRF analysis for precious metals and jewellery. Fast, accurate, non-destructive — results available on the spot.
What is XRF testing?
XRF (X-ray Fluorescence) analysis is a scientific method used to determine the exact metal content of an item, without damaging it. A safe, low-energy X-ray beam is directed at the piece, causing the elements inside — such as gold, silver, platinum and others — to emit their own unique fluorescence or signature.
The XRF machine reads this response instantly, allowing us to accurately identify and quantify the materials present. A report can then be printed detailing the exact makeup of the item. Because it is non-invasive, fast and highly accurate, XRF is trusted worldwide for precious metal testing and jewellery analysis.
Why XRF?
Unlike acid testing, XRF analysis leaves no marks, scratches or chemical residue on the item. Your jewellery is returned in exactly the condition it arrived.
XRF provides a full breakdown of the metal composition — not just a pass or fail result. You receive the exact percentage of each element present in the item.
While hallmarks are a useful guide, not all items are hallmarked — particularly antique, imported or custom-made pieces. XRF testing removes any doubt, offering scientific confirmation regardless of marking.
WHO WE HELP
XRF analysis is included in our Enhanced Jewellery Valuation Package for Probate. Accurate metal content is essential for fair and transparent estate valuations and legal documentation.
Not sure what your jewellery is made of? XRF testing gives you a clear, scientifically verified answer — useful before selling at auction or privately.
For dealers and collectors who need fast, reliable metal analysis on multiple items. Results are available on the spot with a printed report on request.
XRF reports can support insurance valuations and documentation, providing an accurate breakdown of metal composition for items where hallmarks are absent or unclear.
How to use the service
In person
Bring your items to our saleroom in Wallington, Surrey. Testing is carried out on the spot and results are available immediately. Appointments are required — please contact us before visiting.
Get directionsMobile testing
Our XRF machine is fully mobile. We can arrange testing at your home, a solicitor's office or any other location of your choice, by prior arrangement.
Book an XRF TestBy post
Get in touch first to arrange postal testing. Once confirmed, securely package your items and send them to us via a fully insured, trackable service such as Royal Mail Special Delivery. Items are tested on arrival and returned with your report.
Send Us Your ItemsBook an XRF Test
Fill in the form below and we'll get back to you to confirm your appointment. For urgent enquiries call 020 3092 2737.
Frequently Asked
XRF (X-ray Fluorescence) is a safe, non-destructive scientific method used to accurately determine the metal composition of jewellery and precious items. A low-energy X-ray beam is directed at the item, and the machine reads the unique fluorescence emitted by the elements present.
Yes. Our XRF machine is fully mobile and can be taken to a location of your choice by prior arrangement. This is particularly useful for probate and estate matters where travelling with valuable items is not practical.
That is not a problem. XRF testing can accurately determine the metal content of any item, regardless of whether it is hallmarked. This is one of the key advantages over traditional methods — XRF provides scientific confirmation without relying on stamps or marks.
Yes — appointments are required for both in-person testing at our saleroom and mobile testing at an offsite location. Please contact us before visiting to confirm availability and arrange a suitable time.
Yes. We accept items by post. We recommend using a fully insured and trackable service such as Royal Mail Special Delivery. Items are tested on arrival and returned to you along with your report.
Yes. Upon request, we can provide a formal written certificate or report summarising the results of the XRF analysis, including the identified metal composition. Certificates are suitable for probate, estate administration, insurance documentation and other formal purposes. An additional fee applies — please ask at the time of booking.
We offer straightforward, competitive pricing. Depending on the service you need, charges may apply for offsite visits, postal testing or written certification reports. Contact us with your requirements and we will give you a clear quotation in advance, with no hidden fees.
When dealing with an estate, accurate valuations of jewellery and precious metals are essential. XRF gives solicitors and executors scientifically verified metal content to support probate assessments, inheritance and estate division. It is automatically included in our Enhanced Jewellery Valuation Package for Probate.
Acid testing is invasive, less precise and can damage items. XRF is completely non-destructive and gives an immediate, accurate breakdown of the metal composition, with an item-specific report. Even where hallmarks are present they can be worn, altered or not fully representative of the true metal content, so XRF removes any doubt.
Free no-obligation valuations available — by WhatsApp, online, in person or by post.
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