mineral

Gold Nugget

Native Gold (Au)

Hardness: 2.5–3.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Golden-yellow, brassy yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (rarely crystalline in nuggets); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 19.3 (very heavy)

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

Identified April 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal quartz veins via precipitation from hot, mineral-rich fluids. Nuggets are often found in secondary 'placer' deposits where they have been eroded from the mother lode and concentrated by water in stream beds.

Uses & applications

Primary uses include investment/currency, fine jewelry, electronics (highly conductive and non-corrosive), and medical/dental applications.

Geological facts

Most gold nuggets are 85% to 95% pure gold, with the remainder usually being silver or copper. The 'Welcome Stranger' nugget, found in Australia in 1869, remains the largest alluvial gold nugget ever found.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its extreme weight (density), malleability (it will dent or flatten under pressure rather than shatter), and its consistent golden color even in shadow. Commonly found in gold-bearing river gravels or near quartz outcrops.