Yes, metal detectors can detect gold. However, there are important factors to consider such as the type of gold, the intended search depth, and quality of the detector.
Gold relics are one of the most popular target metals to detect for. Some of the most expensive finds EVER are large gold nuggets or designer gold jewelry.
Knowing how to metal detect for gold is a must for any hobbyist or treasure hunter.
Detecting gold is a bit different from detecting silver or detecting white gold. However, it is still one of the best metals to look for.
What is the best metal detector to detect gold?
The best metal detector to detect gold is based on where you are searching, how deep you are looking, and the quality of detector you want.
Based on my experience in detecting gold, you’ll want to go for a metal detector with a high frequency.
As you all now I prefer to use mid-range metal detectors for most of my trips. And gold is where the mid-range detectors SHINE.
Dont get me wrong there a lot of entry level detectors out there that do a great job with gold searching.
BUT…
Based on the return you get from looking for gold items, the mid-range price bump is definitely worth it.
Typically locations with gold relics or jewlery have a lot of other metals and noise around you have to sift through. This is why I swear by the extra features that come with mid-range metal detectors. They just help you to dial down on the exact signals you’re looking for and increase your finding efficiency.
Best beginner metal detector to detect gold
The best beginner metal detector to detect gold is the Ace 250 from Garrett.
The Ace 250 has been a market leader since 2005 and there’s a reason for it.
It gives you a TON of value for the price.
This tried and true metal detector hosts a LCD screen, multiple search modes, discrimination options, a depth indicator, and a pinpointing function.
As an entry level metal detector for gold, it’s pretty unstoppable.
Best mid-range metal detector to detect gold
The best mid-range metal detector to detect gold is the AT Pro from Garrett.
This is one of the best mid-range metal detectors for any metal. I would definitely recommend the Garrett AT Pro to anyone who’s looking to step up their game without breaking the bank.
The AT Pro is similar to the Ace 250 BUT…
It has a few key upgrades that make it worth the price, specifically if you’re a gold hunter.
First and foremost is durability.
The AT Pro is waterproof up to 10 feet and is an all-terrain metal detector.
You’re’ going to hit a LOT of different terrain when searching for gold so this feature is a must have.
The other feature worth mentioning is the automatic and manual ground balance toggle. I’ve also found the target identification (TID) and pro audio mode features come in handy fairly often and I’ve been using them more and more lately.
Best professional metal detector to detect gold
The best professional metal detector to detect gold is the CTX 3030 from Minelab.
First off, this thing is a BEAST.
The multi-frequency detecting options are critical if you’re going to be visiting more than one type of environment.
Gold likes to hide amidst a lot of other materials so the FeCo discrimnation feature is pretty huge to.
And last but not least…
You all know my favorite part of this detector is the integrated GPS and PC mapping capability. This lets you record and map your exact metal detecting routes and upload them to the computer.
Best place to go metal detecting for gold
The best place to go metal detecting for gold is the beach. Some of the highest value items you will find detecting for gold are pieces of jewlery.
This means tourist traps like big beaches are your bread and butter..
Can you go metal detecting for gold at the beach?
Yes, you can go metal detecting for gold at the beach. The best beaches to go metal detecting for gold are in locations with a lot of tourist traffic.
Think Miami, Tampa, the Hamptons. These are the types of beaches you want to target.
Can you go metal detecting for gold in creeks
Yes, you can go metal detecting for gold in creeks. Creeks are one of the best places to look for gold relics or native gold nuggets.
Creeks are going to be your sweet spot for natural gold finds such as gold nuggets. People have been panning for gold in creeks since the Gold Rush era so this is always a tried and true option.
Just make sure you ditch the pan and use technology to help. Because trust me…
I’ve tried the pan method AND it takes forever.
Can you go metal detecting for gold in the woods
Yes, you can go metal detecting for gold in the woods. The best places in the woods to go metal detecting for gold are near abandoned mines.
Old gold mines are always a fun adventure and still have a lot of leftovers to find. Just make sure you bring proper safety equipment if you ever venture underground.
How deep can metal detectors detect gold?
Metal detectors can detect gold anywhere from the surface to 15 feet deep. Any entry level metal detector or above should be able to reach a minimum of 3 feet.
If you’re looking for something deeper, you will need a metal detector with an accurate depth indicator. Higher end models always have this feature built in.
What is the best detector frequency to detect gold?
The best detector frequency to detect gold is 14+ kHz. The exact frequency to detect gold will vary based on the type of detector you’re using, the environment, and what you’re looking for.
Multi-frequency or high frequency metal detectors are generally the best option when targeting gold.
Is metal detecting for gold worth it?
Yes, metal detecting for gold is worth it. Golden jewlery and gold nuggets both have the highest resale value of any common metal.
I mean come on, there’s a reason they call it a gold mine…
As a hobbyist, I keep a fair amount of gold finds for my collection. However, if you do decide to sell any of your finds you can expect a very solid return.
How to identify gold when metal detecting?
How to identify gold when metal detecting?
The best way to identify gold when metal detecting is to use an ohmmeter. At room temperature, gold’s resistance is 2.44 x 10^-8 ohm-meters.
A faster way to identify gold in the field is to look for any imprints or markings on jewlery. Sometimes the karat will be indicated by a number followed by a k.
I prefer the quick and easy method in the field and then like to run more accurate tests at home.
What can you find made of gold when metal detecting?
Items you can find made of gold when metal detecting are native gold nuggets, watches, rings, and earrings.
My most memorable gold finds are high dollar watches.
FAQ
Can metal detectors detect gold wire?
Yes, metal detectors can detect gold wire. Gold wire is typically found within 3 feet of the surface.
Can metal detectors detect gold coins?
Yes, metal detectors can detect gold coins. Gold coins can be detected up to 10 feet below the surface depending on the type of metal detector you use.
Can metal detectors detect gold above water?
Yes, metal detectors can detect gold above water. Metal detectors can detect gold between 0 0 15 feet below the surface.
Can metal detectors detect gold in your car?
Yes, metal detectors can detect gold in your car. However, there will likely be a lot of interference from other metals contained within the body of your car.
