Argor-Heraeus

Argor-Heraeus: frequently asked questions

How can I verify an Argor-Heraeus gold bar is genuine?

Each Argor-Heraeus bar comes with a numbered assay certificate matching a serial number stamped on the bar itself. Kinebar products carry an additional security feature: a KINEGRAM hologram on the reverse, the same diffractive optical technology used on banknotes and passports, which Argor-Heraeus is the only refinery licensed to apply to precious metals bars. LBMA Good Delivery accreditation provides a further layer of independent verification.

Where is Argor-Heraeus based and who owns it?

Argor-Heraeus is headquartered in Mendrisio, Canton of Ticino, Switzerland. It is wholly owned by Heraeus Group, the German industrial and precious metals conglomerate based in Hanau, which acquired a 25% stake in 1986 (when the company was renamed Argor-Heraeus) and bought out the remaining shareholders in 2017 to reach 100% ownership.

What is Argor-Heraeus and what products does it produce?

Argor-Heraeus is a Swiss precious metals refinery founded in 1951 in Ticino. It refines gold, silver, platinum, and palladium, and manufactures cast bars, minted bars, and the proprietary Kinebar (a minted gold bar with a holographic security element). The name combines "argento" (Italian: silver) and "oro" (Italian: gold). BullionFerret tracks 157 Argor-Heraeus products from dealers across our coverage markets.

Is Argor-Heraeus the same company as Heraeus?

No. Argor-Heraeus is a Swiss refinery based in Mendrisio; Heraeus is a separate German industrial and technology group headquartered in Hanau, Germany. The two are related by ownership: Heraeus acquired a 25% stake in Argor SA in 1986 (prompting the rename to Argor-Heraeus) and became the sole owner in 2017. They remain operationally distinct entities within the Heraeus Precious Metals division.