XRF Analyzer vs Sigma Metalytics PMV: Which Gold Testing Technology Does Your Business in Dubai Need?
By Telos Instruments | Authorized Distributor — Terra Scientific XRF Analyzers & Sigma Metalytics PMV | Dubai, UAE
In Dubai’s precious metal industry, which testing instrument to use is critical. Two technologies dominate: X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) and electromagnetic resistivity (Sigma Metalytics PMV). Both are non-destructive and fast, but they work differently. This guide from Telos Instruments — your authorized GCC supplier for both — helps you choose the right solution for your workflow.
📊 XRF Analysis (Terra Scientific)
XRF directs X-rays at a sample surface, measuring fluorescent energy to determine elemental composition. It provides exact percentages (e.g., Au 91.7%, Ag 5.1%, Cu 3.2%). However, penetration depth is limited (~10–50 microns) — surface only. A tungsten core bar plated with gold will pass XRF because X-rays never reach the core.
⚡ Sigma Metalytics PMV (Electromagnetic Resistivity)
The PMV generates an electromagnetic field measuring bulk electrical resistivity through the full depth of a coin or bar. It detects tungsten cores, alloy substitution, and includes density verification (Investor/PRO). Tests through sealed plastic capsules. Does not test jewelry.
EulerX 990 — Handheld Gold Analyzer
Dedicated gold & precious metals analyzer. Instant karat display (9K-24K), detects plating, non-destructive. Lightweight, ideal for gold souks, pawnshops, estate buyers.
View Product →EulerX 900 — Handheld Alloy Analyzer
Precious metals + industrial alloys. Grade ID for stainless steel, titanium, etc. Perfect for recyclers, scrap sorting, and mixed-material operations.
View Product →Aurora 900 — Benchtop Gold Analyzer
Highest precision, enclosed sample chamber, camera system, exportable records. Designed for refineries, DMCC trading, assay offices, and QC labs.
View Product →Sigma Metalytics PMV Original
Surface & shallow-depth testing. Includes 3 wands. Tests through sealed packaging. Ideal for investors, collectors, coin dealers.
View Product →Sigma Metalytics PMV Investor
Through-depth (≤10mm) + density verification. Full keypad. Standard for active bullion traders, DMCC firms, wholesale buyers.
View Product →PMV PRO + External Bridge
Professional-grade, Refiners Wand, factory-calibrated bridge for London Good Delivery bars. Used by refineries, central banks, vault operators.
View Product →| Feature | Terra Scientific XRF | Sigma Metalytics PMV |
|---|---|---|
| Testing Principle | X-ray fluorescence — surface elemental | Electromagnetic resistivity — bulk depth |
| Penetration Depth | Surface ~10-50 microns | Full depth through entire bar |
| Detects Tungsten Core? | No (surface only) | Yes — electromagnetic signature mismatch |
| Tests Jewelry | Yes — all models | No (coins/bars only) |
| Karat Value Display | Yes — direct % and karat | Pass/Fail only |
| Elemental Composition | Full breakdown (Au, Ag, Cu, Pt, Pd…) | No — only alloy match |
| Tests Sealed Packaging | No (direct contact required) | Yes — through capsules |
| Density Verification | No | Yes (Investor/PRO) |
| Best For | Jewelry, surface analysis, compliance docs | Bullion depth authentication, tungsten detection |
XRF Limitation
Surface-only. A sophisticated tungsten-core gold bar passes XRF. Cannot test through sealed plastic. For large bullion, XRF alone leaves risk.
PMV Limitation
No elemental percentages, no karat value for compliance. Does not test jewelry. For documented purity and alloy breakdown, PMV alone is insufficient.
Professional Standard: Use Both
XRF for surface composition & documentation + PMV for full-depth authentication. Major refineries, DMCC traders, and vaults use both layers.
| Business Type | Recommended Solution (Telos Instruments) |
|---|---|
| Gold Souk Retailer (jewelry) | Terra Scientific EulerX 990 — Handheld gold analyzer, instant karat |
| Bullion Dealer / Coin Shop | Sigma PMV Investor + EulerX 990 — Depth testing + surface composition |
| Pawnshop / Cash-for-Gold | EulerX 990 (primary) + GemOro AuRACLE PRO (secondary for backup) |
| Gold Refinery | Aurora 900 + Sigma PMV PRO — Intake documentation + full bar authentication |
| DMCC Trading Company | Aurora 900 + PMV PRO or PRO with Bridge — Compliance + large bar depth testing |
| Institutional Vault / Central Bank | PMV PRO with External Bridge + Aurora 900 — Full LGD bar authentication + audit trail |
✔️ Exclusive Sigma Metalytics GCC Distributor
Only genuine PMV instruments with full warranty in UAE, Saudi, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman.
🔬 Authorized Terra Scientific Supplier
Full range of XRF analyzers: EulerX 990, EulerX 900, Aurora 900 — local stock in Dubai.
📍 On-Site Demos & Training
We bring both technologies to your premises. Test with your own material. Arabic & English support.
📞 Local After-Sales Service
No international shipping — we service your instruments from Dubai.
Can XRF detect a tungsten-filled gold bar?
No. XRF only reads the surface. A tungsten core bar plated with gold will pass XRF. The Sigma Metalytics PMV detects tungsten through full-depth electromagnetic testing.
Can the PMV tell me the karat value?
No. PMV gives pass/fail. For karat percentage and compliance documentation, you need XRF (EulerX 990 or Aurora 900).
Which instrument should I buy first if budget is limited?
For jewelry-focused business: EulerX 990. For bullion trading: PMV Investor. For mixed operations: contact Telos Instruments to discuss phased acquisition.
Is XRF safe for shop use?
Yes. Aurora 900 is fully enclosed; EulerX 990 includes automatic radiation protection. Telos provides safety training with every instrument.
📅 Need Expert Advice? Request a Demo or Compare Both Technologies
Tell us about your business — we’ll recommend the right XRF, PMV, or combination. On-site demos available across UAE & GCC.
Don’t guess — authenticate with confidence.
Telos Instruments brings you both technologies: Terra Scientific XRF and Sigma Metalytics PMV.
Serving Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, Jeddah, Doha, Kuwait City, Manama, Muscat.