Challenges With XRF Data.

Challenges with XRF Data

Neil Ray. West Texas Analytical Laboratory.

XRF testing has significantly grown as an option to test unknown turquoise, and the algorithm is constantly improving with growing accuracy as more reference samples are constantly added to the dataset.  As much as the lab would like it to be, it is important to stress that the algorithm is not 100% accurate and only a probability of origin is returned. 

Considering the number of mines and varieties of turquoise it would take over a lifetime to achieve 100% accuracy.  However, blind samples of known origin have been sent to the lab as a QA/QC (Quality Assurance and Quality Control) check with a matching retuned identification, providing assurance on the testing method.  Problems seem to arise from rare turquoise, where there is a limited amount of data points on the mine, especially if the stone has been chemically altered by unforeseeable means changing its composition all together. 

Some other issues we are seeing are someone posting a report of an analysis of rough from their collection and assuming that their entire parcel represents the specimen that was tested.  We have even seen someone posting material from a lot of rough that was different from what was submitted for testing, claiming it’s the same material.  Finally, scammers have even stole someone else’s report to use as their own to sell material. 

Going forward, the reports will contain a watermark id and number with the name of the client that submitted the samples.  The XRF testing method for turquoise was not created as a profit center for testing, it was created to provide much needed further research in geochemistry of turquoise, provide education to the consumer and industry as a whole, and to remove fraudulent behavior from the market.  The lab strives for customer service and excellence in all testing services we provide. 

On a final note, it has been brought to my attention that the recently marketed Carmel Mountain variscite is actually Broken Arrow variscite removed without permission.  The lab is sourcing some additional Broken Arrow samples for comparative analysis. If it is the same material, that is disgraceful and shameful behavior.  West Texas Analytical fully supports miners and works with many prospectors and claim owners for mineral identification and geochemical assays.  The miners support our industry and hobby by providing rough minerals available for all collectors and lapidary artists.  West Texas Analytical rejects high graders and claim jumpers and will work with the mine owners to prove that their material has been taken without permission.  Stay tuned for a follow-up analysis and comparison of both variscite samples. 

January 24, 2026

Pampa Texas