Sell your gold, silver, or platinum in Quebec
Our assessment process
Welcome
Visit us at our Quebec City branch at your convenience for a free, no-obligation evaluation. No appointment is necessary, but you can call ahead if you prefer. Our friendly team will welcome you and guide you through the sales process. Depending on customer volume, there may be a short waiting time, but we work efficiently to serve you promptly.
Assessment
Step 1: Initial metal analysis
We start by using a strong magnet to distinguish non-precious metals from gold and silver. As gold and silver are not magnetic, this preliminary test enables us to quickly identify objects that may not 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 carats. Gold can also be described by its fineness, which is the quantity 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 purity hallmark. Some pieces are marked in carats (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 carat hallmark is a good indicator of metal purity, although additional tests may be required to verify this.
If a hallmark is not immediately visible, we use a jeweler's loupe, a magnifying tool that allows us to examine details up close. Hallmarks can sometimes be worn or hidden in small areas, such as the posts of earrings or the inside of rings.
After identifying the purity hallmarks, we carefully sort and organize your items by carat or fineness, right before your eyes, to ensure total transparency. Items whose hallmarks are not visible are separated 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 customer, you'll be able to watch our team every step of the way, and they'll always be ready to explain what they're doing and answer your questions along the way.
Acid resistance test
The acid resistance test consists of gently rubbing the object against 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 jewel). If the result is conclusive, this test can be the only verification required.
The acid test is a simple and highly effective method of determining or verifying the purity of a piece of jewelry. The acid is a mixture of nitric acid and muriatic (hydrochloric) acid, and is used to react with a gold sample. The higher the carat, the higher the concentration of acid required for the test.
If the object is not stamped, we start by using 10 kt acid and comparing your "unknown" object with a test key (a gold sample of known purity). The unknown trace should remain very shiny and solid. If the scratch fades, we return the object to the customer, as we cannot buy unmarked objects that do not pass the 10 kt acid test.
If the scratch remains vibrating, we repeat the test with 14 kt acid. If the object passes the test at 10 kt, but fails at 14 kt, we know it's a 10 kt object. If the object passes the test at 14 kt, we continue the test with progressively stronger acids.
Specific gravity meter
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 carat grade of gold. Each metal has a specific gravity that can be calculated when immersed in water. This testing method is totally non-destructive.
The density test is highly 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 conventional balance and once underwater. The difference in weight determines the object's density. As gold is one of the densest elements, we can determine whether objects are gold-plated or solid gold.
X-ray fluorescence test (XRF)
If visual and scratch testing methods do not provide clear results, items can be tested by X-ray fluorescence.
A state-of-the-art machine precisely analyzes the composition of the metal. We use this machine, if necessary, only after other verification methods have been used.
The use of an X-ray machine is an excellent tool for determining the carat of an object, or for helping to discover what the object is made of. The X-ray machine is particularly useful for small objects, such as fine or small chains, small earrings and dental gold.
Once the tests have been completed, a full report shows the percentages of gold content, as well as other alloying metals such as copper, silver or zinc.
If further tests are required, we will explain the procedure before proceeding.
Step 3: Weighing
Once sorted, we weigh your items using a high-precision calibrated scale. You can be present during this process and, if you wish, we can weigh parts separately for your reference.
Step 4: Quotes
Our payment is based on purity, weight and the current market price of gold, silver or other metals. We will make you a clear and straightforward offer, without pressure or obligation. You can decide to sell all, or only part, of what you have brought, based on our offer. If a final test is required to confirm the authenticity of an object (for example, by cutting plated objects into thick layers), we will always ask for your permission beforehand.
Purchase
We never charge for tests or quotations and, if you decide to sell, we pay you immediately, with no hidden charges. We will endeavour to offer you higher cash payments where possible, or we will pay you by cheque.
Thank you for your attention
We appreciate your confidence in Canada Gold. Our commitment to transparency and service excellence is why so many customers return and recommend us to friends and family. Feel free to compare offers - we're confident that our expertise, integrity and best price guarantee make us the most trusted 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 17 branches across Canada.