Extracting Gold from Jewelry: A Fascinating Process

TLDRIn this video, we explore the process of extracting gold from jewelry. We test the purity of the gold, melt it with copper to reduce the gold concentration, and then use nitric acid to dissolve the other metals. We end up with pure gold flakes that can be used for various purposes.

Key insights

🔍Testing the purity of gold jewelry is crucial to determine the gold content.

🔥Mixing gold with copper and melting it helps reduce the gold concentration for further processing.

⚗️Using nitric acid, we dissolve the other metals in the gold alloy, leaving behind pure gold flakes.

📦The final result is a collection of pure gold flakes that can be used for various purposes.

💼Processing scrap gold jewelry can be a rewarding and potentially profitable endeavor.

Q&A

How do you test the purity of gold in jewelry?

The purity of gold in jewelry can be tested by looking for a stamp that indicates the karat value. Alternatively, acid testing can be conducted to determine the gold content.

Why is it necessary to mix gold with copper?

Mixing gold with copper helps reduce the gold concentration, making it easier to separate the gold from other metals in the alloy.

What is nitric acid used for in the gold extraction process?

Nitric acid is used to dissolve the other metals in the gold alloy, leaving behind pure gold flakes.

What can you do with the extracted pure gold flakes?

The pure gold flakes can be used for various purposes, including jewelry making, investment, or as a collector's item.

Is processing scrap gold jewelry a profitable endeavor?

Processing scrap gold jewelry can be a profitable endeavor, especially if you have access to a reliable and cost-effective extraction method.

Timestamped Summary

00:00A patron approached me with the idea of extracting gold from jewelry.

01:23We received gold-covered chains and an old Rolex for testing.

02:32We tested the purity of the gold in the chains using nitric acid.

05:45To reduce the gold concentration, we mixed the gold with copper and melted it.

07:52The gold alloy, mixed with copper, was melted and stirred.

09:15Nitric acid was used to dissolve the other metals in the gold alloy.

11:27The resulting liquid gold alloy was poured into water, forming gold flakes.

13:50The pure gold flakes can be used for various purposes, such as jewelry making or investment.