assay

/ˈæˌseɪ/
/æˈseɪ/

noun

The testing of a metal or ore to determine its ingredients and quality.

evaluation,assessment,analysis,examination,test,trial,check,inspection,appraisal,investigation,scrutiny,probe

transitive verb

Determine the content or quality of (a metal or ore)

the man who assayed gold was more than a technician