mineral

Gold in Quartz

Hydrothermal Quartz with Native Gold (SiO2 with Au)

Hardness: Quartz 7, Gold 2.5-3; Color: Milky white to translucent quartz with metallic yellow inclusions; Luster: Vitreous (Quartz) and Metallic (Gold); Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Quartz), Isometric (Gold); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: Quartz ~2.65, Gold ~19.3.

Hardness: Quartz 7, Gold 2
Luster: Vitreous (Quartz) and Metallic (Gold)

Identified April 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal processes where hot, mineral-rich fluids circulate through fractures in host rocks (often during mountain-building events). As the fluids cool, quartz and metals like gold precipitate out in veins. These can date from the Archean era to recent geological periods.

Uses & applications

Primary source of gold for industrial and jewelry use; highly prized by specimen collectors and prospectors.

Geological facts

Quartz is the most common gangue (waste) mineral associated with gold. This type of specimen is often referred to as 'jewelry grade' if the gold is aesthetically distributed through the stone. It is a classic indicator used by prospectors during 'lode' mining.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by checking for the high density of gold compared to quartz and the malleability of yellow inclusions (gold will dent, while pyrite/fools gold will shatter). Commonly found in 'mother lode' districts like California, Alaska, and Australia.

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