This book provides a detailed guide to the furnace assay method for determining gold and silver content in geological samples. Written by E. J. Chapman, it aims to equip assayers and geologists with the precise techniques required for accurate quantitative analysis. The text focuses on the practical application of chemical principles in a laboratory setting, emphasizing the importance of meticulous procedure for reliable results.

This work is a foundational text in the field of mineral assaying, likely valued for its direct and practical approach to a critical laboratory technique. Its detailed instructions suggest it was intended for practitioners requiring a reliable manual for gold and silver determination. The focus on furnace assaying indicates its relevance to mining and geological exploration during the late 19th century.