mineral

Gold Flakes (Placer Gold)

Gold (Au)

Hardness: 2.5–3.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Metallic yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 19.3 (very high)

Hardness: 2
Color: Metallic yellow
Luster: Metallic

Identified June 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.5–3.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Metallic yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 19.3 (very high)

Formation & geological history

Primarily formed in hydrothermal quartz veins via volcanic activity. These flakes represent placer deposits, weathered out of lode sources and concentrated by water in stream beds through gravity.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in jewelry, electronics (due to high conductivity), finance (gold bullion), and dentistry.

Geological facts

Gold is extremely malleable; a single ounce can be beaten into a sheet covering 100 square feet. It is one of the few elements that is chemically unreactive and does not tarnish.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its high weight (specific gravity) and malleability—unlike pyrite, gold will flatten under a hammer rather than shatter. It maintains its color in shadow.