This document specifies a method of sampling precious metals and precious metal alloys for the determination of their precious metal content and for the assessment of their homogeneity. The document is applicable to raw materials, semi-finished products and finished products and is intended to be used only for the sampling of entirely metallic materials. NOTE 1 Standards for determination of precious metals contents for different metals are listed in the Bibliography. NOTE 2 For assaying techniques different from the listed ones other sampling procedures can be required. NOTE 3 For the purpose of production control or lot inspections the International Standards for the sampling indicated in the Bibliography or corresponding guidelines can be applied in addition.