mineral

Gold-bearing Quartz

Native Gold (Au) in Quartz (SiO2) matrix

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 2.5-3 for gold, 7 for quartz; Color: Metallic yellow gold in gray-white quartz; Luster: Metallic gold, vitreous quartz; Crystal system: Isometric (gold), Trigonal (quartz).

Hardness: 2
Color: Metallic yellow gold in gray-white quartz
Luster: Metallic gold, vitreous quartz

Identified May 10, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.5-3 for gold, 7 for quartz; Color: Metallic yellow gold in gray-white quartz; Luster: Metallic gold, vitreous quartz; Crystal system: Isometric (gold), Trigonal (quartz).

Formation & geological history

Formed via hydrothermal processes where hot, mineral-rich fluids circulate through crustal fractures, depositing gold and silica as they cool; often found in Precambrian or Mesozoic formations.

Uses & applications

Primary source of gold for industrial electronics, jewelry, and financial investment; highly valued by mineral collectors for natural aesthetics.

Geological facts

Most gold found by prospectors is associated with quartz veins. Native gold is one of the densest minerals, with a specific gravity of 19.3 when pure.

Field identification & locations

Identified by the distinct sectile nature of gold compared to brittle pyrite, and Its weight. Commonly found in mountainous regions near fault lines or in placer deposits.