Metamorphic/Igneous (Hydrothermal)

Gold Ore in Quartz/Schist

Auriferous Quartz and Sulfide-bearing Schist

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6-7 (quartz) vs 1-2 (schist/micas), Color: Grey, yellowish-brown, and rust-orange (iron staining), Luster: Dull to vitreous, Crystal Structure: Massive quartz with foliated metamorphic matrix, Cleavage: Poor in quartz; excellent in mica components.

Identified April 6, 2026More metamorphic/igneous (hydrothermal) →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal processes where hot, mineral-rich fluids circulate through fractures in the earth's crust, often in metamorphic belts or near volcanic activity during orogenic (mountain-building) events.

Uses & applications

Primary source for commercial gold extraction; lower grade specimens are used for mineral collecting and landscape decoration.

Geological facts

The rusty orange color is often due to the oxidation of pyrite (fools gold), which is a common indicator mineral for actual native gold in geological veins.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by looking for heavy iron staining (gossan) on quartz or schist rocks. Often found in historic mining districts, stream beds, or contact zones between different rock layers.