Gold panning. A cheats way.

[willy46]

Thank you to all the rain we have had, it should stir up some gold in rivers & creeks a little. But I had an idea for gold panning. I'm going to glue a small strong magnet into my pan. It should cut panning time in half I think. I'll give it a go later this week & post some pics.

[disco2td5]

Hi willy46
As far as i know gold isn't magnetic.
I wish it was cause it would save me from siting there for hours when I'm in Hill End, Sofala or Braidwood so far iv only found small amount at these places .

[lxss5000]

AH but magnatite is you dont have to fight the magnatite in the bottom of the pan with the gold?

[DKEL]

Maybe it might work better to keep the magnet away from the pan until the later stages of a panning where only some heavies remain. Then come in with the magnet by hand to clear away magnetite/haematite leaving any gold behind in the pan.
Interesting concept. I might give it a go myself.
Duane

[Red]

I watched a youtube video of a guy testing for iron in his test garden soil using a magnet.

If you are going to use a magnet anytime, it's easier to clean off if placed in plastic bag or film.

Cheers