mineral

Gold Nugget

Native Gold (Au)

Hardness: 2.5-3.0 Mohs; Color: Metallic yellow to gold; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (rarely visible in nuggets); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 19.3 (pure)

Hardness: 2
Color: Metallic yellow to gold
Luster: Metallic

Identified April 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.5-3.0 Mohs; Color: Metallic yellow to gold; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (rarely visible in nuggets); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 19.3 (pure)

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal quartz veins via cooling fluids. When the host rock erodes, the gold is transported by water and settles in alluvial/placer deposits. Can date from billions of years (Archaean) to relatively recent geological eras.

Uses & applications

Predominantly used as a store of value/currency, in jewelry making, and in industrial electronics due to high conductivity and corrosion resistance.

Geological facts

Gold is incredibly ductile; a single ounce can be stretched into a wire 50 miles long. Unlike many other yellow minerals, gold stays yellow even in the shade and does not tarnish.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its extreme weight for its size (density), malleability (it will dent rather than shatter if struck), and high metallic luster. Commonly found in stream beds or within quartz veins.