If you want to get involved in the purchase of gold as a collector or investor you will need to do your homework.  It is not easy to become an active trader in the precious metal market.  One of the things that you will need to learn is how to test the gold you are considering for purchase.  You will want to learn the art of testing gold for purity and quality.  You will need the best gold testing supplies that you can purchase directly online.  There are many dealers and sites that can help you get started and offer professional advice for you to begin the process of learning the trading game in gold.