mineral
Gold Nugget
Gold (Au)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 2.5-3 on the Mohs scale. Color: Golden-yellow, yellow, or reddish-yellow. Luster: Metallic. Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic). Cleavage: None (hackly fracture). Specific gravity: Very high (approximately 19.3).
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- Golden-yellow, yellow, or reddish-yellow
- Luster
- Metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.5-3 on the Mohs scale. Color: Golden-yellow, yellow, or reddish-yellow. Luster: Metallic. Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic). Cleavage: None (hackly fracture). Specific gravity: Very high (approximately 19.3).
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins where gold-bearing fluids circulate through fractures in rocks and precipitate, or in placer deposits where weathering and erosion concentrate the heavy metal in rivers and streams over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in jewelry, investment as a store of value, electronics, and various industrial and medical applications.
Geological facts
Gold is extremely malleable and ductile; a single ounce can be drawn into a wire 50 miles long. The largest gold nugget ever found was the Welcome Stranger in Victoria, Australia, weighing over 2,300 ounces.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its high specific gravity (feels heavy for its size), bright metallic yellow color that does not tarnish or streak green/black, and softness. Found globally in auriferous gravels and quartz veins.
