mineral

Gold Nugget / Gold-bearing Quartz

Native Gold (Au)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 2.5-3 (Gold) to 7 (Quartz); Color: Golden yellow to brassy with reddish-brown oxidation; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: None.

Hardness: 2
Color: Golden yellow to brassy with reddish-brown oxidation
Luster: Metallic

Identified May 17, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.5-3 (Gold) to 7 (Quartz); Color: Golden yellow to brassy with reddish-brown oxidation; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: None.

Formation & geological history

Hydrothermal formation where hot, mineral-rich fluids circulate through fractures in the earth's crust, often in quartz veins during orogenic (mountain-building) events.

Uses & applications

Primary source of gold for currency, jewelry, electronics, and medical applications. Small nuggets are highly collectible in their natural form.

Geological facts

Gold is one of the densest minerals on Earth and is extremely malleable. Most 'native' gold contains trace amounts of silver, copper, or iron.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its high specific gravity (it will feel heavy for its size) and its sectility (it can be cut or dented without shattering). Commonly found in placer deposits or within quartz veins.