mineral

Gold Ore

Native Gold (Au) in Matrix

Hardness: 2.5-3 (for gold); color: metallic yellow to brassy; luster: metallic; crystal structure: isometric (rarely crystalline in ore); specific gravity: 19.3 (pure gold); often found in quartz or iron oxide (limonite) stained host rock.

Hardness: 2
Color: metallic yellow to brassy
Luster: metallic

Identified April 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal processes where hot mineral-rich fluids circulate through crustal fractures. Often associated with quartz veins in metamorphic or igneous terrains, or weathered into gossans (iron-rich caps).

Uses & applications

Primary source of gold for currency, jewelry, electronics, and medical applications. High value as collector specimens when gold is visible.

Geological facts

Roughly 80% of the gold harvested today is used in jewelry. In its ore form, gold is often 'invisible' to the naked eye, requiring chemical processing to extract, though visible nuggets or veins in host rock like this are highly prized.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its density (extremely heavy for its size), high malleability (gold will dent rather than shatter like pyrite), and its persistent yellow color even in shade or water. Found globally in 'gold belts.'