mineral
Gold Nugget
Native Gold (Au)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 2.5-3.0 Mohs; Color: Golden yellow to brassy yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 15.5-19.3
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- Golden yellow to brassy yellow
- Luster
- Metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.5-3.0 Mohs; Color: Golden yellow to brassy yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 15.5-19.3
Formation & geological history
Formed via hydrothermal veins deep in the Earth's crust or concentrated in sedimentary placer deposits by water action. Often associated with quartz veins in metamorphic or igneous terrains.
Uses & applications
Primary source for jewelry, investment bullion, electronics, dentistry, and aerospace due to high conductivity and corrosion resistance.
Geological facts
Gold is one of the few elements that can be found in its native, uncombined form. It is highly malleable; a single ounce can be beaten into a sheet covering 100 square feet.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its high density (heavy for its size), golden streak (unlike pyrite which has a greenish-black streak), and malleability (it dents rather than shatters when struck).
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