ABC Refinery has partnered with Source Certain to implement forensic origin verification technology for gold bars.
The Sydney-based refinery, a part of Pallion, has begun using a trace element analysis system created by Source Certain, an Australian scientific firm, to confirm the specific mine of origin for every piece of gold it receives. This initiative comes after four months of collaboration, during which a reference dataset was developed to capture the unique trace element profiles of all gold supplied to ABC Refinery.
This dataset now forms the foundation for a verification system designed to validate gold origin claims scientifically throughout the refining process. Source Certain has used this technology commercially for nearly two decades in sectors such as agriculture, seafood, mining, and resources. It relies on forensic science to verify material provenance and protect against supply chain fraud.
The application of this technology signifies a move by ABC Refinery to extend its due diligence practices beyond industry norms. For refiners operating under the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) Good Delivery and Responsible Sourcing Program, the ability to offer forensic proof of gold origin provides another layer of assurance. LBMA accreditation is granted to refiners that meet requirements, including technical proficiency, responsible sourcing, bar quality, and net tangible assets.
ABC Refinery is currently the only independent Australian refinery to hold this accreditation. The adoption of Source Certain's system is intended to reinforce the ethical and sustainable sourcing commitments both at ABC Refinery and its related bullion business, ABC Bullion. Parent company Pallion positions this move as maintaining its adherence to international standards within the precious metals sector.
Andrew Cochineas, Chief Executive Officer of Pallion, emphasised the importance of verifiable origin within the gold industry. "Provenance matters – to our partners, our customers and to global markets. Source Certain's science-backed technology reinforces confidence in ABC Bullion gold by ensuring its origin can be independently verified," said Cochineas.
He continued: "As a long-standing LBMA-accredited refinery, ABC is held to some of the world's highest sourcing and quality standards. Now, we're going one step further – offering forensic proof of origin to support transparent trade and responsible refining practices."
The verification results are made accessible through Source Certain reports, which can confirm the provenance of each specific ABC Bullion gold bar using forensic data.
This development is intended to enhance supply chain transparency and reliability in gold refining, aligning with both ethical sourcing goals and global market expectations.
