Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Last updated: August 9, 2024
This page answers the questions buyers ask most when purchasing gold from Congo Rare Minerals (CRM). If you need something that is not covered here, contact info@congorareminerals.com or call +243 820 928 379.
Quick answers
Purity available: 22K and 24K.
Minimum order: 100 grams.
Payments: Bank transfer. Escrow or law firm trust account where offered. Cryptocurrency by written agreement and where legally permitted.
Shipping: Insured export to approved destinations. Common Incoterms are CIF and FOB.
Verification: Assay documentation is provided. Third party verification at a buyer nominated refinery can be arranged.
Buying basics
1) What products do you sell?
Investment grade gold in bars, nuggets and dust, subject to availability. If you need a specific format or bar size, tell us during quoting so we can match your request.
2) What purity do you sell?
22K and 24K. Purity and weight are confirmed in the pro forma invoice and final assay documents.
3) What is the minimum order?
100 grams. Larger orders are welcome and can be scheduled.
4) How do I place an order?
Start by sharing your company details and KYC documents. We issue a pro forma invoice with price, terms, Incoterms, and documents. Your order is booked once you accept the PFI and follow the payment instructions.
5) Can you lock a price?
Yes. After KYC approval we can offer a price lock for a defined validity window. The window is stated on your PFI.
Verification and testing
6) Do you provide assay documentation?
Yes. Each shipment includes assay documentation. The final refinery assay and reconciliation method are set out in your contract.
7) What testing methods do you use?
We use XRF screening for fast composition checks and fire assay for definitive purity confirmation when required. The method used for your order is specified in your contract.
8) Can I witness the melt and assay?
This can be arranged by request and scheduling. Speak to your account manager during quoting.
9) What if the final assay differs from the initial specification?
Any variance is reconciled according to the contract. This may involve an adjustment for weight or purity or a payment or credit settlement.
10) Are bars stamped and serialized?
Final form and marking are confirmed at the refinery stage and depend on the route and agreement. If you require stamped or hallmarked bars, tell us before price lock so we can plan accordingly.
Pricing and payments
11) How is pricing set?
Quotes reference live market conditions plus logistics, insurance and handling. Final terms are shown on the PFI.
12) Which payment methods do you accept?
Bank transfer is standard. Escrow or a law firm trust account may be available on eligible transactions. Cryptocurrency can be accepted where legal and only by written agreement in the PFI.
13) How do I avoid payment fraud?
We only issue bank details after KYC. Always confirm payment instructions on a verification call with your CRM manager using a known phone number. We do not change bank details by messaging apps.
Shipping, Incoterms and insurance
14) Which Incoterms do you support?
Commonly CIF and FOB. The Incoterm for your order is shown on the PFI.
15) Do you ship worldwide?
Yes, to approved destinations subject to KYC and import rules.
16) Are shipments insured?
Yes. Shipments arranged by CRM are insured to the agreed value. You will receive insurance details before dispatch.
17) How long does shipping take?
Handling typically takes 1 to 5 business days after compliance and payment. International transit is usually 2 to 7 business days depending on the route and carrier.
18) Who pays destination duties and taxes?
Unless the contract states otherwise, the buyer pays all destination import duties and local taxes.
19) Do you support cash and carry?
Cash and carry may be supported in the DRC subject to compliance checks and scheduling. We do not sell locally in Uganda.
Compliance and documents
20) What KYC and AML documents are required?
Company registration documents, identification for authorized signers and a basic end use statement. Additional documents may be requested depending on the jurisdiction.
21) Which export documents do you provide?
Typically a commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, export permits where applicable, assay report, insurance and the airway bill.
22) Are there country restrictions?
We comply with sanctions and export control laws. We may refuse or pause orders if screening fails or if export, insurance or logistics are not available on reasonable terms.
Country specific and Africa questions
23) Is it legal for foreign buyers to purchase gold from African countries such as DRC, Uganda, Ghana, Kenya or South Africa?
Yes, when both parties follow source country laws, destination import rules and sanctions restrictions. Buyers should confirm local requirements in their country.
24) How do you ensure responsible sourcing?
We apply documented due diligence and chain of custody controls and follow applicable regulations. See our Responsible Mining page for more detail.
Orders, changes and returns
25) Can I cancel an order?
Orders are generally not cancellable once the price is locked or once compliance, handling or logistics steps have begun. If we approve a cancellation you agree to cover any market loss and costs already incurred.
26) Do you accept returns?
Returns are not accepted except where required by law or agreed in writing.
Getting help
27) Who do I contact for quotes or support?
Email info@congorareminerals.com or use the contact form at /contact-us/. For urgent issues call +243 820 928 379 during business hours.
28) Can we schedule a video call?
Yes. Ask your CRM manager to send a calendar invite with a verified video link.
Helpful links
Shop: /shop/
Lab Testing and Assay: /lab-testing/
Refining: /service/refining/
Responsible Mining: /service/responsible-mining/
Consultancy: /service/consultancy/
Contact: /contact-us/
The pro forma invoice or contract for your shipment controls in case of any conflict with this page. Always rely on the most recent written terms issued for your order.