Panning for gold can be thrilling, but if you’re new to it, it’s easy to make mistakes that cost you precious flakes. Here are the top beginner errors to avoid when working with Rich Gold Paydirt.
1. Panning Too Fast
Many first-timers rush the process. Gold is heavy and settles at the bottom—take your time and let gravity do the work.
2. Using the Wrong Tools
A proper gold pan, classifier, and snuffer bottle make a huge difference. Don’t use kitchen bowls or random scoops—you’ll lose gold.
3. Overlooking Fine Gold
Some gold is tiny, especially in Rich Gold Paydirt. Beginners often wash it away. Always check your black sand carefully.
Try a drop of jet dry into your gold pan to break up and surface tension in the water and also pan into another tub so you can easily re pan what you might have missed.
4. Not Pre-Soaking the Paydirt
Dry material can float and carry gold with it. Add water before panning to avoid losing the good stuff.
5. Panning in Poor Lighting
Gold glitters, but only if you can see it. Always pan in good natural light or with a headlamp to avoid missing flakes.
Want to try your luck with premium gold-bearing dirt? Check out our Rich Gold Paydirt collection and start your gold panning journey the right way!
Happy panning—and don’t leave gold behind!
