Gold vs. Silver Pins - Question

[martyweil]

There are both gold-plated pins and pins that are silver without any gold coloration. Is there a value difference between the two types. In other words, from the perspective of a home refiner, does it matter if the two pin types are mixed together or should they be kept seperate?

 

[MMFJ]

There are both gold-plated pins and pins that are silver without any gold coloration. Is there a value difference between the two types. In other words, from the perspective of a home refiner, does it matter if the two pin types are mixed together or should they be kept seperate?

This question is somewhat akin to asking if it is OK to put both apples and horse-apples in the same pie (hey, oranges would work just as well, but how often do we get to talk about horse-apples?)

In other words, if you KNOW they are not the same, why would you put them in the same batch?

READ HOKE (rinse and repeat....)

 

[patnor1011]

I would add - Gold plated pins and Silvery coloured pins. That would be more appropriate. 99% of what you see as silver coloured is just tin plated. Take one and rub on piece of paper - if you will see grey streak - tin. :idea:

 

[martyweil]

There are both gold-plated pins and pins that are silver without any gold coloration. Is there a value difference between the two types. In other words, from the perspective of a home refiner, does it matter if the two pin types are mixed together or should they be kept seperate?

This question is somewhat akin to asking if it is OK to put both apples and horse-apples in the same pie (hey, oranges would work just as well, but how often do we get to talk about horse-apples?)

In other words, if you KNOW they are not the same, why would you put them in the same batch?

READ HOKE (rinse and

My deepest appreciation for your kind and thoughtful reply to my query.

 

[gold4mike]

There's a very good chance that the silver colored pins don't contain any precious metals.

If you include them with your gold plated pins you'll use more chemicals to get the same amount of gold as you would processing only those that contain values.

This is a good example of why you need to read Hoke and learn to test your material. If you test a few pins and find no PM's you won't waste your time processing something that has no value.

 

[d1deano]

I would add - Gold plated pins and Silvery coloured pins. That would be more appropriate. 99% of what you see as silver coloured is just tin plated. Take one and rub on piece of paper - if you will see grey streak - tin. :idea:

Thank You! 8) I had the same question today while scrapping old dish receivers. There was some obvious gold plated, there was some obviously not (kind of a dull silver), and then there was some really shinny silver looking ones. I am going to try the paper test as soon As I get back out to the shop.

Thank you again.