4.1 These test methods are intended for the determination of the gold content of gold and silver bullion. It is assumed that all who use these test methods are trained assayers capable of performing common fire assay procedures skillfully and safely. It is expected that work will be performed in a properly equipped laboratory.

1.1 These test methods cover cupellation analysis of bullion having chemical compositions within the following limits:

  Element

Mass Fraction Range, %

Gold

0.5 to 4.0 and 20.0 to 99.8

Silver

1.0 to 99.5

Total gold plus silver

75.0 to 100.0

1.2 These test methods appear in the following order:

Sections

Test Method A

20.0 % – 99.0 % gold

10 – 16

Test Method B

0.5 % – 4.0 % gold

17 – 21

Test Method C

98.9 % – 99.8 % gold

22 – 28

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific safety hazards, see Section 8.

1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.