mineral

Gold Nugget

Native Gold (Au)

Hardness: 2.5-3.0 Mohs; Color: Golden yellow to brassy yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 15.5-19.3 (very dense)

Hardness: 2
Color: Golden yellow to brassy yellow
Luster: Metallic

Identified March 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.5-3.0 Mohs; Color: Golden yellow to brassy yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 15.5-19.3 (very dense)

Formation & geological history

Formed primarily in hydrothermal quartz veins by precipitation from hot, mineral-rich fluids deep in the crust. Large nuggets are often found in 'placer' deposits, where they have been eroded from the original rock and concentrated by water in stream beds.

Uses & applications

Primary use is in financial backing (currency/bullion), jewelry, and high-end electronics due to its excellent conductivity and resistance to corrosion.

Geological facts

Gold is one of the few metals that exists in nature in its 'native' or pure metallic state. It is incredibly malleable; a single ounce can be beaten into a sheet covering 100 square feet.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its extreme weight and lack of cleavage (it will dent or bend if hit, rather than shattering like Fool's Gold/Pyrite). Common locations include the American West (California, Alaska), Australia, and South Africa.