How to Use a Gold or Treasure Finder

Many people search for metal on the beach.

Metal detectors use a magnetic field to detect metal objects in the ground. There is no such thing as a detector that only detects gold, but as gold is a metal, the detector will pick that up too. Because there are different manufacturers for metal detectors, each with their own controls and instructions, you'll need to read your manual carefully. However, there are some basics that apply to all metal detectors.

Things You'll Need

• Metal detector

Instructions

1. Assemble detector. Most detectors require some assembly once they are out of the box. This assembly usually involves an easy screwing together of the head piece and handle, not unlike putting together a lamp.

2. Read about the controls on your detector and familiarize yourself with them. Each detector will have different controls, such as being able to tune out sounds for unwanted metals. Each detector will also differ on the depth range of materials it can detect underground. On average, you can expect to find your object within a foot of the surface.

3. Test your detector and practice. Line up on a wooden surface common metal objects that may be found with your detector such as a penny, bottle top, can tab, U.S. coin, foreign coin, nail, gold object, copper and silver. Turn your detector on and pass it over each object, noting that it produces a different sound for each.

4. Adjust your controls to give sounds and readouts that will best help you in your search for gold. Research prospecting sites where you might be most successful. Areas that have been known to hold gold deposits are likely places to look. Try campsites, shorelines at the beach, populated areas that are heavily wooded or have fields with long grass. Parks, old marinas and hiking trails are good spots to try.

5. Use slow, broad sweeps in a circular motion close to the ground. Try going after a rainstorm; when the ground is wet, detectors work better. Determine a square area that you want to search; go from one side of the square back down to the other, in a straight line, to cover your area thoroughly.

References

• Gold Price: How to Use a Metal Detector

Resources

• Nevada Outback Gems: Metal Detecting For Gold Nuggets