mineral

Gold-bearing rock, possibly native gold in quartz or ironstone matrix

Native gold (Au); matrix not identifiable from the image

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Bright yellow metallic grains and a rough, irregular form. Native gold has Mohs hardness 2.5–3, cubic crystal structure, and high specific gravity (~19.3); the specimen’s matrix and cleavage cannot be determined visually.

Identified October 12, 2026More mineral →

Explore Gold-bearing rock, possibly native gold in quartz or ironstone matrix in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

At a glance

Common name: Gold-bearing rock, possibly native gold in quartz or ironstone matrix
Scientific name: Native gold (Au); matrix not identifiable from the image
Category: mineral
Identified: October 12, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

If genuine gold-bearing material, value depends mainly on measured gold content and weight; a small low-grade specimen may be worth roughly $5–$50, while richer pieces can be substantially more.

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

Native gold forms in hydrothermal veins and can concentrate in weathered deposits and stream gravels; its age depends on the host geology and cannot be inferred from the image.

Uses & applications

Gold is used in jewelry, electronics, dentistry, and investment; gold-bearing specimens are collected, though this piece’s gold content is unknown.

Geological facts

Gold is malleable and does not tarnish readily. Similar-looking pyrite or gold-colored coatings can mimic native gold.

Field identification & locations

The granular metallic yellow appearance suggests gold, but confirmation requires tests such as streak, malleability, and specific gravity; common gold districts occur worldwide. The image alone cannot establish composition.