packaging testing

Step into the realm of packaging excellence with the Birmingham Assay Office’s cutting-edge service – Packaging Testing. 

Through our years of knowledge and expertise we have understood the consistent issues relating of the tarnishing of jewellery which have allowed our experts to develop this unique testing protocol. 

We specialise in testing packaging materials to identify tarnish accelerants, a crucial process for ensuring the preservation of precious metal alloys, plated jewellery, and other valuable artifacts. Our accelerated tarnish test is a meticulous examination that unveils the presence or absence of components responsible for tarnishing or staining products, particularly those in direct contact with silver, low carat gold, and base metal items.

The test not only reveals the type of tarnishing or staining but also provides insights into the relative distribution of the materials causing it. This method, developed in-house and aligned with international standards, acts as a valuable ‘early warning’ system for retailers.

By subjecting packaging to an environment of high humidity and relatively high temperature, we simulate real-world conditions, ensuring that any volatile sulphides or compounds causing tarnishing are detected.