DID YOU KNOW?
In 1998, the Royal Canadian Mint refinery first put its hallmark on gold of the highest recognized level of purity, known as "5 nines," or 99999 fine, on a numismatic coin.
The ability to analyze gold accurately is central to the success of any gold refinery.
The Mint's sampling and assaying practices are among the industry's most stringent; our precious metals analytical labs rank among the world's best. The Royal Canadian Mint laboratory is an active participant in the process testing programme conducted by the American Society for Testing and Materials. Their independent validation of our fire assay is integral to maintaining our leadership position.
Rigorous methodologies An expert team of technical and scientific personnel is at the heart of our success. Their innovative approach is supported by state-of-the-art practices and methodologies, which address the complete range of precious metals, from low-grade material to 99999 fine gold:
Spectrometric Methods These advanced techniques are used to analyze high-purity gold and to determine impurities in feed materials. They include flame atomic absorption, graphite furnace atomic absorption, spark ablation ICP atomic emission as well as x-ray fluorescence and laser-ablation ICP mass spectrometry.
Accuracy - guaranteed -The absolute accuracy of every analysis is validated and guaranteed through the Mint's rigorous sampling and analytical protocols. -A weight-calibration programme ensures all scales remain traceable to the international kilogram standard.