mineral

Gold-bearing dark rock, possibly magnetite with iron-oxide staining

Likely magnetite (Fe₃O₄) with limonite/goethite; metallic patches may be gold or weathered sulfide, unconfirmed

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Black, dense, submetallic to metallic surface with rusty brown alteration and pale metallic flecks. Magnetite has Mohs hardness 5.5–6.5, black streak, strong magnetism, and specific gravity about 5.2; visible gold cannot be confirmed visually.

Identified September 6, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Gold-bearing dark rock, possibly magnetite with iron-oxide staining
Scientific name: Likely magnetite (Fe₃O₄) with limonite/goethite; metallic patches may be gold or weathered sulfide, unconfirmed
Category: mineral
Identified: September 6, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

$1–$20 as an ordinary iron-rich specimen; approximately $25–$200+ if confirmed native gold is present, depending on grade and aesthetics.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely an iron-rich vein or altered igneous/metamorphic fragment formed by hydrothermal mineralization, then oxidized near the surface; its geological age cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Magnetite is an iron ore and industrial pigment; gold-bearing specimens can have collector value, but this piece requires testing before any jewelry or economic use.

Geological facts

A strong magnet test, streak test on unglazed porcelain, and specific-gravity measurement are useful. Gold is soft, nonmagnetic, yellow, and leaves a yellow streak, whereas pyrite is harder and brittle.

Field identification & locations

Commonly found in iron-ore deposits, volcanic terrains, metamorphic belts, and placer settings worldwide. Test with a magnet and hardness comparison; assay or XRF is needed to verify gold.