mineral
Gold Nugget
Gold (Au)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness of 2.5 to 3, bright yellow color, metallic luster, cubic crystal system rarely seen as distinct crystals, malleable and ductile with a high specific gravity of 19.3.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness of 2.5 to 3, bright yellow color, metallic luster, cubic crystal system rarely seen as distinct crystals, malleable and ductile with a high specific gravity of 19.3.
Formation & geological history
Formed through hydrothermal processes where gold-bearing fluids precipitate in quartz veins, or through secondary placers where weathering concentrates dense nuggets in riverbeds.
Uses & applications
Primary use is in jewelry, investment bullion, electronics, and dentistry due to its corrosion resistance and high conductivity.
Geological facts
Gold is so malleable a single ounce can be beaten into a sheet covering 300 square feet, and nearly all gold on Earth came from meteorite bombardments.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its heavy weight, yellow metallic color that does not tarnish, and softness. Found globally in auriferous gravels and quartz lodes.
