mineral

Gold Nugget

Native Gold (Au)

Hardness: 2.5-3.0 Mohs; Color: Golden yellow to brassy yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 15.5-19.3

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

Identified May 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.5-3.0 Mohs; Color: Golden yellow to brassy yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 15.5-19.3

Formation & geological history

Formed via hydrothermal veins deep in the Earth's crust or concentrated in sedimentary placer deposits by water action. Often associated with quartz veins in metamorphic or igneous terrains.

Uses & applications

Primary source for jewelry, investment bullion, electronics, dentistry, and aerospace due to high conductivity and corrosion resistance.

Geological facts

Gold is one of the few elements that can be found in its native, uncombined form. It is highly malleable; a single ounce can be beaten into a sheet covering 100 square feet.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its high density (heavy for its size), golden streak (unlike pyrite which has a greenish-black streak), and malleability (it dents rather than shatters when struck).