- High Price PromiseHigh offers for all precious metals
- 15 Years ExperienceFamily owned bullion specialists
- Sell Gold OnlineSell gold jewellery anytime, anywhere
- High Street LocationNo PO Box addresses here
At Cheshire Gold Xchange, one of the most important parts of valuing your gold is getting an accurate analysis of your gold, or other precious metal. Gold testing forms part of our usual gold buying service but we are also thrilled to offer precious metal analysis and testing as a standalone service. So if you have been long wondering ‘how do I know if my jewellery is gold?’ then look no further! As extremely experienced gold, silver and platinum buyers with a solid local reputation, we understand the importance of trust and transparency in the cash for gold industry. Whether you are a potential seller looking for an accurate valuation of your gold, or an avid collector curious about the purity of your metals, our trusted metal testing service is designed to provide you with the exact composition of your items.
Why Choose Our Gold Testing Services?
- Accuracy and Precision: As we are specialist gold buyers, we have invested heavily into top of the range equipment. We use the latest state-of-the-art Niton XRF (X-ray fluorescence) handheld precious metal analyser, a leading piece of kit in the industry. This machine allows us to instantly determine the exact composition of metals, in a non-invasive way.
- Non-Destructive Gold Testing: One of the most significant advantages of using our XRF analyser is that it can test metals without causing any damage. Unlike other traditional gold testing methods such as acid testing, which can require you to file away some metal from the item to expose deeper layers. Our method of testing leaves your jewellery, and other items intact and unscathed.
- Not Just Gold: Our service is not limited to just testing for gold. So if your jewellery isn’t gold then what is it? It may be platinum, palladium or silver, we can tell you exactly what your metals are made of. Whether you have coins, bars, jewellery, or scrap, we can provide you with a detailed breakdown including the percentage content of each element.
- Speedy and efficient testing: At Cheshire Gold Xchange we know your time is valuable, which is why we aim to offer a gold testing service that is smooth, quick, and convenient. Almost all of our tests can be completed there and then within a minute, and you can walk away with a full analysis report.
- Experience and Trust: As being a 15 year established gold buyer in Warrington, our team has years of experience in precious metals. We are 100% committed to to delivering a transparent and honest service to all our precious metal sellers. Have confidence that when brining your gold to us you are in safe and trustworthy hands.

Test Your Gold In Cheshire Today
Located in the village of Stockton Heath, Warrington, our store is open six days a week, and no appointments are necessary.
The Process of Gold and Precious Metal Testing
Our gold testing process is designed to be simple, and straightforward. Our process will alter slightly if you decide to use our online cash for gold service, but we follow the similar process as brining your items in-store.
- Initial Chat: No appointments are necessary if you wish to bring your gold to our Cheshire shop. When you visit, our friendly staff will greet and discuss your needs. Whether you are looking to sell, verify or are just curious to learn more about your jewellery or other metal items we are here to help.
- Testing with Our Niton XRF Analyser: Once we have discussed your requirements, your gold can then be tested by our handheld XRF precious metals analyser right in front of you. This device emits X-rays onto the metal surface, which then excites the atoms within the metal. As these atoms return to their normal state, they emit secondary X-rays that are characteristic of the specific elements within the metal. The analyser then captures these secondary X-rays and uses them to determine the exact composition of the metal, including the exact percentage of pure precious metal such as gold, silver, and platinum.
- Review the Results: Once our XRF testing is complete, we can provide you with a detailed report which will include a least of all the elements present and their percentage content. Our staff will review these results with you and be ready to answer any questions you may have. At this point we can also provide you with a cash offer for your items if you wish to sell based on the precious metal percentage, weight, and the current global market price. If you are looking for a quick estimate check out our page, how much is my gold worth?
- Proceed With Sale: If our high cash offer is tempting and you are looking to sell your gold, we can proceed to get on the spot payment arranged via cash or bank transfer (depending on transaction value). If you’re just looking to get your gold tested, we can provide you with all the information you need.
How Our XRF Precious Metal Analyser Works
At Cheshire Gold Xchange it is crucial for us to be to delivering fair, and accurate valuations to our customers. We have invested in the most precise technology allowing us to test, value and pay you accurately for gold and other precious metals even where hallmarks are not present.
Our Niton XRF (X-ray fluorescence) analyser is a sophisticated piece of technology that allows us to accurately determine the composition of precious metals. Here’s how it works:
- X-Ray Emission: The testing process begins with a pull of the trigger, this causes the analyser to emit a beam of low-energy X-rays onto the surface of your jewellery. These X-rays penetrate the metal up to a depth of 1mm, and excite the atoms within the metal.
- Fluorescence: As the atoms in the metal have become excited by the X-rays, they temporarily move to a higher energy state. When these atoms return to normal, they begin to release energy in the form of secondary X-rays, also known as fluorescent.
- Elemental Detection: These secondary X-rays carry with them characteristics that a unique to each specific element. As an example, gold atoms will emit fluorescence at different energy levels than silver or copper. The XRF analyser captures these emitted x-rays and measures their energy levels.
- Analysis and composition: The Niton handheld analyser then uses this data to calculate the exact composition of the metal and will display a list of the containing elements on the screen. Next to each element we will see the percentage contained in the item. This will allow us to establish the carat purity of the gold or other precious metal. For example 9ct gold bracelet will contain 37.5% pure gold, and this should be reflected on the XRF scanner.
In summary, the Niton XRF analyser is a cutting-edge piece of technology, that offers many advantages over the traditional gold texting methods. We always recommend selling to only gold dealers who have advanced detection equipment. Whether you’re selling, insuring, or simply verifying your precious metals, our XRF analysis service is the most advanced and reliable option available.
Why Is Testing Important Before Selling Gold & Other metals?
Gold and other precious metals are globally traded commodities, and its price is changing constantly. The value of precious metals, like gold, silver, and platinum is determined by its weight and its purity level. Jewellery, is rarely 24ct pure gold in the UK. It is often made from lower purity gold such as 9ct where other metals are mixed in to improve hardness and also make a piece more affordable. If a buyer can not accurately establish the gold purity in your item, then they can not price it accurately.
Our Niton XRF analyser accurately identifies the percentage of gold and other metals in your items, ensuring that you understand exactly what you have allowing you to make the most inform decision when looking to sell your gold. This transparency is crucial and gives you the confidence to make the best decision for you.
Who Can Benefit from Our Metal Testing Services?
- Individuals: If you own gold jewellery, coins, or other precious metal items, our testing service can help you verify their authenticity and value. If you have inherited gold jewellery and have no background or description on the piece our testing service can be invaluable.
- Estate Planners and Executors: When handling estates that include precious metals, our testing service can provide the necessary documentation to assess the value of the estate accurately.
- Collectors and Investors: For those who collect or invest in precious metals, knowing the precise composition of your assets is essential for making informed buying or selling decisions.
Conclusion
At Cheshire Gold Xchange, we are committed to offering reliable, accurate and professional gold and precious metal testing in Warrington, Cheshire. Our advanced equipment combined with our 15 years experience ensures you receive the most accurate analysis of your metals. Not only can we provide you with analysis but we can also offer you a purchase price should you choose to sell.
Visit us today in Warrington to experience our top-tier gold testing and precious metal analysis service. Let us help you unlock the true value of your metals with confidence and peace of mind.