mineral

Native gold-bearing quartz/rock fragment

Native gold (Au), likely in quartz or iron-oxide matrix

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small irregular specimen with bright brassy-yellow metallic patches and a mottled pale matrix. Native gold has Mohs hardness 2.5–3, very high density (~19.3), metallic luster, malleability, and no cleavage; the matrix may be quartz (hardness 7) and limonite/iron oxides.

Identified August 30, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely formed in hydrothermal quartz veins when gold-bearing fluids deposited native gold in fractures, commonly during mountain-building; exact age and locality cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Gold is used in jewelry, electronics, dentistry, and investment; quartz-gold specimens are collectible. Value depends overwhelmingly on verified gold weight and fineness.

Geological facts

Gold’s yellow streak and malleability distinguish it from pyrite, which is harder and brittle. The image alone cannot confirm that the yellow material is gold.

Field identification & locations

Test with a loupe, streak test, density, and professional assay; gold will dent or smear rather than crumble. Common sources include Nevada, California, Australia, Canada, and South Africa.