Introduction
Once gold is mined and separated from surrounding rock or sediment, it’s far from ready to be turned into coins or jewelry. The next step is refining, which transforms raw doré bars into pure, market-ready gold.
1. What Are Doré Bars?
Doré bars are semi-pure gold bars — a mixture of gold and other metals like silver, copper, or impurities. They’re produced at mining sites and sent to refineries for purification.
2. Two Main Refining Techniques
Gold is refined using either the Miller Process or the Wohlwill Process, each with its own advantages.
a. Miller Process
- Involves blowing chlorine gas through molten gold.
- Impurities form chlorides and float to the surface.
- Results in gold with ~99.5% purity.
b. Wohlwill Process
- Electrolytic method using a gold anode and cathode in a chloride solution.
- Produces gold of up to 99.999% purity.
- Used for high-precision applications like electronics or official bullion.
3. Environmental Considerations
Gold refining can produce toxic byproducts if not properly managed. Modern refineries aim to implement:
- Water treatment systems.
- Waste recycling methods.
- Strict safety and emission standards.
4. Applications of Refined Gold
Once purified, gold is used in:
- Jewelry making.
- Investment products like coins or bullion bars.
- Electronic components and medical devices.
Conclusion
Gold’s transformation from a rough doré bar to gleaming bullion is a precise process involving chemistry, craftsmanship, and care — a crucial step before it appears in your local jewelry shop.
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