Where did this gold come from? | Canvas of Knowledge

Purity answers a different question

An assay can describe the gold content of a material. It cannot, by itself, explain the conditions under which that material was produced and traded. OECD guidance identifies risks in mineral supply chains that include human rights abuses, conflict financing, corruption and environmental harm. Responsible sourcing addresses that wider history. The question is not only what the bar contains, but what relationships and activities brought it to the market. A high fineness is not a substitute for that inquiry. [1]

A continuing process

Due diligence is a process for identifying, assessing and responding to risks. LBMA’s Responsible Gold Guidance requires refiners to take a risk-based approach before starting a new supplier relationship and throughout that relationship. Mapping the supply chain helps establish who is involved and where material originates. Evidence then informs the response, including closer examination where risk is higher. This is more substantial than collecting a reassuring label once and assuming that circumstances will remain unchanged indefinitely. [2]

Recycled gold also needs scrutiny

Recycling is valuable, but the description recycled does not automatically establish a low-risk history. OECD warns that poorly examined secondary supply chains can conceal material mined in harmful or illicit ways. It therefore highlights the need to establish that material described as recycled actually is recycled. LBMA likewise requires risk assessment for recycled inputs and their suppliers. Mined and recycled describe material categories; neither word removes the need to understand the businesses, locations and transactions involved. [2] [3]

Evidence rather than a perfect promise

Traceability records can support due diligence, but knowing a route and assessing its risks are different tasks. OECD’s framework focuses on identifying, addressing and mitigating adverse impacts, rather than treating a traced route as proof that no problem exists. For a reader comparing claims, useful distinctions include the scope of the assessment, the evidence behind it and how concerns are handled. Responsible sourcing is best understood as disciplined scrutiny with accountability, not a guarantee that an entire supply chain is free of every risk. [1] [2]

FOLLOW THE EVIDENCE

Sources & further reading

Sources checked 14 November 2026. The artwork is illustrative. Reference organisations do not endorse this website. Financial examples are educational, not investment recommendations.