mineral
Gold
Native Gold (Au)
Hardness: 2.5-3; Color: Golden yellow to brassy; Luster: Metallic; Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 19.3 (very heavy)
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- Golden yellow to brassy
- Luster
- Metallic
Identified More mineral →
Explore Gold in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 2.5-3; Color: Golden yellow to brassy; Luster: Metallic; Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 19.3 (very heavy)
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal quartz veins and as placer deposits in riverbeds. The location (near Yuba City, CA) is in the heart of the historic Mother Lode region.
Uses & applications
Used for currency, electronics, jewelry, and dental work. High value for investment and collecting.
Geological facts
This specimen displays a hackly fracture and metallic luster typical of native gold. The region 39.1N, 121.6W is famous for the California Gold Rush.
Field identification & locations
Identified by high density, extreme malleability, and golden streak. Check riverbeds and quartz outcrops in the Sierra Nevada foothills.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous