mineral

Gold Flakes

Native Gold (Au)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 2.5-3 (Mohs scale), Color: Golden yellow, Luster: Metallic, Crystal Structure: Cubic/Isometric, Specific Gravity: 19.3 (pure)

Hardness: 2

Identified July 9, 2026More mineral →

Explore Gold Flakes in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 2.5-3 (Mohs scale), Color: Golden yellow, Luster: Metallic, Crystal Structure: Cubic/Isometric, Specific Gravity: 19.3 (pure)

Formation & geological history

Formed via hydrothermal veins or as alluvial placer deposits in riverbeds where gold eroded from its primary source. Geological age varies from billions of years (Archean) to recent.

Uses & applications

Investment, jewelry, electronics, and souvenir collecting. These specific flakes are likely decorative or souvenir grade.

Geological facts

Gold is one of the most ductile and malleable metals; one ounce can be beaten into a sheet covering 100 square feet. It does not tarnish or oxidize.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic yellow color, extreme density, and malleability. Unlike Pyrite (Fool's Gold), authentic gold will not crush into powder but will flatten when struck.