Naked Science Forum

Non Life Sciences => Geology, Palaeontology & Archaeology => Topic started by: SorryDnoodle on 08/02/2014 09:41:27

Title: How can I test soil samples for gold and other precious metals?
Post by: SorryDnoodle on 08/02/2014 09:41:27

Hello, I have been planning a trip to south America next year to a relative of mine who owns a lot of land in a pretty good zone for finding gold, so I was wondering what one would need to chemically see how much gold there is in the ground from soil samples?

Thanks in advance for any responses!

Title: Re: How can I test soil samples for gold and other precious metals?
Post by: Bored chemist on 08/02/2014 15:07:49

Chemical analysis of soil for gold would be relatively difficult.
These are a better bet
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gold_panning
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metallurgical_assay#Fire_assay_.2F_cupellation

Title: Re: How can I test soil samples for gold and other precious metals?
Post by: SorryDnoodle on 09/02/2014 13:56:56

Well, the more difficult something is the more fun, no point in doing something if it doesn't bring a challenge along with it.

Title: Re: How can I test soil samples for gold and other precious metals?
Post by: Bass on 12/02/2014 04:31:06

Are you looking for lode gold or placer gold?