GOLD & SILVER TESTING
Is It Really Silver or Gold?
Mail in up to three pieces of jewelry for non-destructive XRF testing. Your photo-documented Findings Report will explain whether the tested areas are consistent with sterling silver, gold, plated metal, or base metal, and whether lead or cadmium was detected.
Clear findings. Careful handling. Insured U.S. return shipping.
A “24k” Stamp Does Not Always Tell the Whole Story
In a July 2026 investigation, The Sunday Times purchased jewelry from several prominent jewelers and submitted it for independent testing.
One ring advertised as “925 silver” tested at approximately 92.3% cadmium. A necklace advertised as “24k gold” tested at approximately 33% cadmium. More than 9000% times over the safe limit.
You cannot determine that by appearance, price, or a seller’s description alone.
“Whole process was smooth”
“I finally found out what an old family ring was actually made of! The whole process was smooth, and I appreciated how well everything was documented.”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Samuel Ortiz
“My necklace had toxic metals!”
So relieved to know that my necklace isn’t safe to wear! Highly recommend this service!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Ekta Pillai
“Fast turnaround”
Measured Matter answered my questions. They were very friendly. Fast turnaround and excellent service.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Mary Walker
How the Mail-In Process Works
1. Place Your Order
Purchase your Jewelry Metal Testing and provide basic information about each item.
2. Mail Your Items
You will receive instructions for labeling, packaging, and mailing your jewelry. Send the package with tracking and insurance.
3. Intake and Documentation
Measured Matter will photograph, weigh, label, and log each item after it is received.
4. Metal Analysis
Your jewelry will be analyzed using state-of-the-art, non-harming tests to determine its exact metal content.
5. Receive Your Findings Report
Your Findings Report will be sent to the email address provided with your order. It will include photographs, whether the items contain any toxic metals, metal percentages found (what it’s made of), and a finding for each item.
6. Receive Your Items Back
Your jewelry will be securely packaged and returned using tracked and insured shipping. Return to you shipping within the United States is included.
Sample Findings Report
Analysts Handling Your Jewelry
Measured Matter is a small jewelry metal lab based in Portland, Oregon. Every submitted item is photographed, weighed, labeled, analyzed, documented, and securely prepared for return by our team. We built the service to give customers clear, evidence-based answers about the metals in their jewelry they wear everyday, all without damaging the item.
Justin Black, PhD
Founder & Principal Analyst
Justin holds a PhD in Astronomy and a master’s degree in Physics, with experience in instrumentation, electronics, measurement, and scientific data interpretation. He personally reviews the instrument readings and prepares the Findings Report for each order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the testing scratch, cut, or discolor my jewelry?
No cutting, filing, scraping, acid testing, polishing, or destructive sampling is used. XRF analyzes the metal without altering the item.
Can you tell me whether my jewelry contains cadmium or lead?
Yes. Your Findings Report will state whether cadmium, lead, or other toxic elements were detected. It will include the instrument readings and a plain-language explanation, so you are not left trying to interpret raw data yourself.
How long will you have my jewelry?
Your Findings Report will normally be completed within seven business days after your package is delivered. You will receive an email when your items are received, when your report is complete, and when your return package has shipped. While in our care, your jewelry is insured with us and stored in a bank-style safe.
Can you confirm whether an item is genuine gold or sterling silver?
Yes. We can determine whether the measured metals are consistent with the claimed or marked gold fineness or with sterling silver.
How do I know I will receive my exact jewelry back?
Every item is photographed, weighed, labeled, and logged when it arrives. Those records remain connected to your order through analysis, reporting, and return packaging. We store your jewelry in a safe until it is ready to mail back to you.
Is it safe to mail my jewelry?
Yes! You should send your package using a tracked and insured method. Your return shipment within the United States is tracked and insured and is included in the $89 price.
What happens if my package is lost or damaged in transit?
Before your package is delivered to and accepted by Measured Matter, coverage depends on the shipping and insurance you purchase. Return shipping is tracked and insured. We also maintain an insurance liability policy to protect your jewelry.
Who will handle my jewelry?
Only the Measured Matter team. Your jewelry is always handled with velvet jewelry gloves to insure no damage. Each piece follows the same documented process: intake photography, weighing, labeling, XRF analysis, report preparation, and secure return packaging.
Still unsure whether an item qualifies?
Contact Measured Matter before ordering, and we will help determine whether the item can be safely and meaningfully tested.