Abstract: A self contained testing device (100) for assaying precious metals includes a housing (110) for various mechanical and electronics components integrated to form a compact testing device. The testing device (100) includes a gel dispenser, e.g. syringe (200), an anode probe (650) to which may be attached a specimen holder (653) or crocodile clip (907), a cathode probe (624), and an electronic circuit (691) connected to the anode and cathode probes for conducting and recording tests. A sample (686) is held in the sample holder (653), e.g. by a spring clip (667), and gel is dispensed through a nozzle (115) to connect the specimen and cathode probe. The characteristics of the resulting cell are analysed and the results provided on a display (612).