A method for generating alkali metal in a zero oxidation state includes reacting an alkali metal compound having a —S-M substituent, where M is an alkali metal and S is sulfur, with gold in a zero oxidation state to release the alkali metal in the zero oxidation state. For example, an alkali metal alkylthiolate can be reacted with a gold in a zero oxidation state to release the alkali metal in the zero oxidation state. As another example, an alkali metal sulfide can be reacted with gold in a zero oxidation state to release the alkali metal in the zero oxidation state. The alkali metal may be used in various applications including vapor cells, magnetometers, and magnetic field measurement systems.