reading nitrate test

[rsa1]

I'm trying to use a Lamott nitrate test, but not sure how to read it. According to the instructions, you wait 10 minutes before comparing the color of the test sample.
Question: During that 10 minutes, a very thin layer (1 mm?) of color settles out on the bottom of the test tube. Do I compare the color of this settled out layer or compare the color of the rest of the sample or do I remix it and then compare the color of the entire sample?
Thanks

[Timmain42]

I don't know about the LaMott nitrAte test, but the LaMotte Phosphate test is designed to let settle, then check.

::edit Is there a color difference between settled and shaken?

[rsa1]

Is there a color difference? It's hard for me to say, I always seem to have trouble reading these color scale type tests. As the color is more dilute and lighter when the sample is mixed, it appears to me that it matches a lower test reading. I guess I have trouble distinguishing between color intensity and hue. OK, so I should color match the thin band of precipitate that settles out, Yes?
Thanks

[Timmain42]

Sounds like it to me, if there isn't enough difference in intensity in shaken vs. settled.