The Refining Process
### Step 1: Mining and Extraction
Gold ore is extracted from the earth through open-pit or underground mining. The ore typically contains only 5–10 grams of gold per ton of rock.
### Step 2: Initial Processing
The ore is crushed, ground, and treated with cyanide solution to dissolve the gold. The gold-bearing solution is then separated from the waste rock.
### Step 3: Smelting
The extracted gold is heated to over 1,064°C (its melting point) in a furnace and poured into rough bars called doré bars, which are typically 80–90% pure gold.
### Step 4: Refining
Doré bars are sent to an LBMA-accredited refinery where they undergo further purification. The two primary methods are:
### Step 5: Casting or Minting
### Step 6: Assaying and Certification
Each bar is weighed to precise tolerances, tested for purity, stamped with its weight and fineness, and assigned a unique serial number. An assay certificate is issued confirming all specifications.
Understanding Bar Markings
A properly marked gold bar will display:
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