mineral

Gold Flake

Native Gold (Au)

Hardness: 2.5-3.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Golden yellow, brassy; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic (often found as irregular grains or flakes); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 19.3 (very high)

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

Identified May 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed primarily in hydrothermal quartz veins or as secondary deposits in alluvial (river) sediments known as placer deposits. It is often associated with igneous intrusions and magmatic activity from various geological ages.

Uses & applications

Primary use is in financial reserves, jewelry, and electronics due to its high conductivity and resistance to corrosion. It is also highly valued by collectors and prospectors.

Geological facts

Gold is one of the most malleable and ductile metals known; a single gram can be beaten into a sheet one square meter in size. It is also chemically inert, meaning it does not rust or tarnish.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its color (which does not change when viewed from different angles), its malleability (it can be dented with a needle rather than shattering), and its extreme weight. Common in historic mining regions of California, Alaska, Australia, and South Africa.