mineral

Gold-bearing Quartz (Auriferous Quartz)

Quartz (SiO2) with native Gold (Au) inclusions

Hardness: 7 (Quartz), 2.5-3 (Gold); Color: Milky/clear white with metallic yellow flecks; Luster: Vitreous to metallic; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65 for quartz, 19.3 for gold.

Hardness: 7 (Quartz), 2
Color: Milky/clear white with metallic yellow flecks
Luster: Vitreous to metallic

Identified July 6, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins when hot, mineral-rich fluids circulate through crustal fractures, often during orogenic (mountain-building) events. The gold precipitates out of the fluid alongside crystallizing silica.

Uses & applications

Primary source for industrial gold extraction, jewelry (specimen gold), and high-end collector items for mineral enthusiasts.

Geological facts

Quartz is the most common host mineral for gold. Historically, these specimens were crushed in stamp mills to extract the gold, resulting in the loss of many beautiful natural specimens.

Field identification & locations

Identify by looking for a metallic yellow color that does not change at different angles (unlike pyrite) and is soft enough to be dented with a needle. Often found in mountainous regions with a history of volcanic or tectonic activity.

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