How they work
- Electromagnetic field:
Metal detectors work by generating an electromagnetic field. When this field interacts with a conductive metal like gold, it causes a response in the form of an eddy current, which the detector can sense. - Different frequencies:
gold detector price often operate at higher frequencies than standard metal detectors to be more sensitive to small gold nuggets and flakes.
- Detector quality:
A more expensive or specialized detector will generally have better sensitivity, depth, and ground balancing capabilities. - Soil conditions:
Highly mineralized ground can interfere with a detector's signal. Some detectors have features to help balance the ground, while others, like pulse induction (PI) detectors, are better suited for these conditions. - Size and shape of the gold:
Larger gold objects are easier to detect at a greater depth than smaller ones. - User experience:
The skill and experience of the user are also important for successful detection.
- Invest in a gold-specific detector:
If you are serious about gold prospecting, a machine designed for gold hunting is crucial for finding smaller targets in difficult ground conditions. - Know your environment:
The success rate depends heavily on the ground you are working in and the type of gold you are looking for (e.g., nuggets vs. fine gold). - Consider both VLF and PI technology:
While Very Low Frequency (VLF) detectors are good at discriminating between metals, PI detectors perform better in highly mineralized or saltwater environments where discrimination is less of a priority.