mineral
Gold Nugget / Flake
Native Gold (Au)
Hardness: 2.5-3.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Golden-yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 15.5-19.3
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- Golden-yellow
- Luster
- Metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.5-3.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Golden-yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 15.5-19.3
Formation & geological history
Formed via hydrothermal veins deep in the Earth's crust or as secondary deposits in riverbeds (placer deposits) through erosion and water transport over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in jewelry, electronics (conductors), dentistry, finance/investment assets, and high-end collector markets.
Geological facts
Gold is one of the most malleable and ductile metals known; it is noble, meaning it does not oxidize or rust in air or water.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its extreme weight for its size and its malleability (it should dent, not shatter, under pressure) and lack of streak on a plate. Commonly found in quartz veins or stream gravels.
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