Published specs first
We rank machines by capacity, density resolution, and solid-sample fit—not brand slogans.
Densimeter Lab
Buy the right gold densimeter before the first scrap intake.
Spec-led guides for Archimedes density testers—capacity, resolution, and the solid-sample rules that keep karat readouts honest.
Solid pieces only
Hollow jewelry, gem settings, and plated fashion metal break density math. We say so up front.
First-pass tool
Densimeters screen deals fast. High-ticket bars still need XRF or assay when risk is high.
Affiliate clear
Amazon links may earn us a commission. Specs and caveats stay independent of that payout.
Topic hubs
Pick the desk problem you are solving
Every hub opens with sizing or limits before product shortlists—so you do not buy the wrong tank twice.
Start hereCapacity, resolution, and the solid-sample rule before you buy.3 guides
Buyers guidesDensimeters sized for pawn, jewelry, coins, and scrap workflows.4 guides
How to testAir/water weighing, water quality, and readout interpretation.2 guides
LimitationsHollow pieces, gem settings, tungsten fills, and plated items.2 guides
Compare methodsDensimeter vs acid vs electronic contact testers.1 guide
AccessoriesCalibration weights, printers, water, and bench loupes.1 guideFeatured guides
Most-read paths into the catalog
Beginner shortlists, capacity math, and the failure modes that waste a densimeter purchase.
BuyingBest gold densimeter for beginners
A first machine for solid jewelry only: capacity, resolution, and a shortlist built from published specs.
SizingDensimeter capacity guide: 120g to 1200g
Match machine capacity to the heaviest solid piece you regularly buy—without paying for unused range.
LimitsWhat a densimeter cannot test
Hollow jewelry, gem-set pieces, air pockets, and plated fashion metals—why density fails there.
MethodsDensimeter vs acid vs electronic gold tester
Pick the right first-pass tool by speed, destructiveness, and which fakes each method misses.
BuyingBest densimeter for pawn shops
Throughput-minded picks for mixed gold intake: durable tanks, clear karat modes, and solid-sample discipline.
WorkflowHow to use a gold density tester step by step
A practical air-then-water workflow, tank setup notes, and common unstable-reading fixes.