mineral

Gold Nugget

Native Gold (Au)

Hardness: 2.5–3 on Mohs scale; Color: Golden yellow to brassy yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 19.3 (when pure).

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

Identified April 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.5–3 on Mohs scale; Color: Golden yellow to brassy yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 19.3 (when pure).

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal processes where hot, mineral-rich fluids deposit gold in quartz veins or volcanic rocks; often weathered out and discovered as 'placer' gold in stream beds through erosion.

Uses & applications

Used in jewelry, electronics (highly conductive), dentistry, currency/investment, and aerospace (heat shielding).

Geological facts

Because gold is an element, a nugget is 100% natural and unique; the largest nugget ever found was the 'Welcome Stranger' in 1869, weighing approximately 158 pounds.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its high density/weight (feels heavy for its size) and its malleability (it will dent or flatten rather than shatter when struck). Common in quartz veins and alluvial sand deposits.