mineral

Gold Nugget

Native Gold (Au)

Hardness: 2.5–3 on Mohs scale; Color: Golden yellow to brassy yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal structure: Isometric (though usually anhedral in nuggets); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 19.3 (very heavy).

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

Identified April 10, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal quartz veins via precipitation from hot fluids in the Earth's crust. Most nuggets are found in secondary alluvial (placer) deposits after being weathered out of the primary vein and transported by water.

Uses & applications

Primary source of gold for currency, jewelry, electronics, and medical applications. Small nuggets are highly prized by collectors and for artisanal jewelry.

Geological facts

Most gold nuggets are 75% to 95% pure gold, with the remainder usually being silver or copper. The largest gold nugget ever found was the 'Welcome Stranger' in Australia, weighing over 70kg.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its extreme weight (high density), metallic luster that doesn't tarnish, and malleability (it will dent or bend rather than shatter when struck). Commonly found in riverbeds and stream sediments in volcanic or mountainous regions.