From Sardis to the lab: a gold assay deep dive with Hugh De Souza

From Sardis to the lab: a gold assay deep dive with Hugh De Souza

From GeOCHemISTea by Sam Scher

August 13, 2025 · 59 min · Season 4 · Episode 8

About this episode

Hugh De Souza discusses the evolution of gold analysis and modern methods in analytical geochemistry.

In this episode of GeOCHemISTea, we're joined by Hugh De Souza to explore the evolution of gold analysis; from 4,000-year-old fire assay traditions to disruptive technologies like photon assay. With over 40 years at research and industry analytical labs and deep experience in mineralogy, geochemistry, and lab innovation, Hugh shares his unconventional path into analytical geochemistry, breaks down the physics behind modern methods, and reflects on what the future holds for gold assay. Whether you're a field geo or into analytical chemistry, this one's for you.

People in this episode

Host: Sam Scher

Guest: Hugh De Souza

Topics covered

  • gold analysis
  • fire assay
  • photon assay
  • analytical geochemistry
  • mineralogy
  • lab innovation

Keywords

  • gold assay
  • fire assay traditions
  • disruptive technologies
  • analytical chemistry
  • geochemistry

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: GeOCHemISTea

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