China. Here's effort #2. This time using your "Alternate Method -- even easier":
Is it just me or does this look just about right? Microwave IS easier. I wonder what went wrong with the hot-plate with stirrer method? Same ingredients...
I did notice something interesting with method 2 however. On removing the beaker just AT the boiling point the solution appeared to have 2-layers, an upper vaguely purple layer and a lower clear. I put it back in the oven and let it REALLY boil. That worked. Might be worth trying a more vigorous boil with method 1, but I wonder, why bother?
Next up is the electrolysis method. I have a couple of gold electrodes to use up. If that doesn't work out I'll have attempt dissolving gold into gold chloride for use in the microwave, I suppose. If so I'll have to get some 35% HCl & 35% H202, no?