mineral

Gold

Native Gold (Au)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 2.5-3.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Golden yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 19.3

Hardness: 2
Color: Golden yellow
Luster: Metallic

Identified June 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.5-3.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Golden yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 19.3

Formation & geological history

Primary deposits form in hydrothermal quartz veins and volcanogenic massive sulfide deposits. Secondary deposits (placer) form through weathering and erosion, concentrating in riverbeds. Occurs across all geological ages.

Uses & applications

Primary use in investment (bullion), jewelry, high-end electronics due to conductivity, and dentistry.

Geological facts

Gold is incredibly malleable; a single ounce can be beaten into a sheet covering nearly 100 square feet. It is chemically inert and does not tarnish or rust.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its high density, extreme malleability (it will dent rather than shatter), and persistent yellow streak. Commonly found in quartz veins or as flakes/nuggets in stream sediments.