mineral

Gold Flakes

Native Gold (Au)

Hardness: 2.5-3.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Golden-yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (Cubic); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 19.3

Hardness: 2
Color: Golden-yellow
Luster: Metallic

Identified June 15, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.5-3.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Golden-yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (Cubic); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 19.3

Formation & geological history

Primarily formed in hydrothermal quartz veins or through the weathering of those veins into alluvial placer deposits. Gold is often associated with quartz and sulfide minerals.

Uses & applications

Extensive use in jewelry, investment (bullion), electronics due to high conductivity, and dentistry. Collectors prize natural flakes and nuggets.

Geological facts

Gold is one of the most malleable and ductile metals known; environmental gold is virtually indestructible. It is often found mixed with small amounts of silver (electrum).

Field identification & locations

Identify by its bright metallic yellow color that does not tarnish. Unlike pyrite (fool's gold), native gold is malleable and can be poked or flattened without shattering. Commonly found in riverbeds and quartz outcroppings in mountainous regions.