mineral
Gold Nugget
Native Gold (Au)
Hardness: 2.5-3.0 Mohs; Color: Rich golden yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: Approx. 19.3 (very heavy for its size)
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- Rich golden yellow
- Luster
- Metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.5-3.0 Mohs; Color: Rich golden yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: Approx. 19.3 (very heavy for its size)
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal quartz veins/lodes or concentrated in alluvial placer deposits through erosion. Geological age varies from Precambrian to Cenozoic.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in liquid capital/currency, jewelry, electronics (conductors), dentistry, and as high-value collector specimens.
Geological facts
Gold is the most malleable and ductile metal known. A single gram of gold can be beaten into a sheet one square meter in size, and it is chemically noble, meaning it does not tarnish or rust.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its high density (feels heavy for its size), extreme malleability (it will dent rather than shatter if struck), and persistent yellow color in all lighting conditions.
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