mineral

Gold Grain

Native Gold (Au)

Hardness: 2.5–3 on Mohs scale; Color: Metallic yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 19.3 (very heavy).

Hardness: 2
Color: Metallic yellow
Luster: Metallic

Identified April 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.5–3 on Mohs scale; Color: Metallic yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 19.3 (very heavy).

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal quartz veins or as secondary deposits in riverbeds (placer deposits) through erosion of gold-bearing ore. It is chemically inert and does not oxidize.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in jewelry, electronics (conductivity), currency/investment, and medical/dental applications. Small grains are highly sought after by recreational gold prospectors.

Geological facts

Gold is one of the densest minerals on Earth and is incredibly malleable; a single ounce can be beaten into a sheet covering nearly 100 square feet. It is often found associated with quartz and pyrite.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its high density and Sectility (it can be cut or bent without shattering). Unlike pyrite (fool's gold), gold remains bright in shadow and is soft enough to scratch with a copper penny.