mineral

Gold Nugget

Native Gold (Au)

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

Hardness: 2
Color: Golden-yellow
Luster: Metallic

Identified April 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Primary formation occurs in hydrothermal quartz veins via volcanic activity. Placer nuggets (like this one) are formed as erosion releases the gold from the host rock and carries it downstream, where it is rounded by water and gravel, often found in Cenozoic era deposits.

Uses & applications

Currency, investment/bullion, jewelry making, high-end electronics, and medical/dentistry applications.

Geological facts

Gold is incredibly ductile; a single ounce can be beaten into a sheet covering 100 square feet. Most nuggets found in rivers are 75% to 95% pure gold.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its high density (heavy for its size), metallic luster that remains bright in shade, and malleability (it will dent, not shatter). Commonly found in riverbeds and old stream channels using a gold pan.