Guides
The minerals trade,explained simply.
Short, plain-English explainers for buyers, suppliers and anyone curious about how minerals are tested, priced and shipped.
- 013 min read
What is gold doré?
The bar a mine produces before refining, and why its purity has to be measured, not assumed.
Read guide - 024 min read
How fire assay measures gold
A centuries-old laboratory method that is still the reference standard for precious metals.
Read guide - 033 min read
The Kimberley Process in plain English
The certification scheme every rough diamond must pass through to cross a border legally.
Read guide - 044 min read
Gemstone treatments and why disclosure matters
Many gems are heated or filled to improve them. That is acceptable. Hiding it is not.
Read guide - 053 min read
Reading a coal specification
Five numbers decide what a tonne of coal is worth. Here is what each one means.
Read guide - 062 min read
Troy ounces, carats and TREO
The minerals trade uses its own units. A quick guide so the numbers make sense.
Read guide - 073 min read
Incoterms for mineral shipments
Who pays for transport and insurance, and when the risk passes from seller to buyer.
Read guide