mineral

Native gold-bearing quartz/rock specimen

Native gold (Au) in quartz and iron-oxide matrix

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Visible metallic yellow grains suggest gold with whitish quartz and rusty sulfide/oxide material. Gold has Mohs hardness 2.5–3, very high density (~19.3), metallic luster, and malleability; quartz is hardness 7 with glassy luster. Identification is uncertain from the photograph alone.

Identified August 20, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely formed in hydrothermal quartz veins where gold-bearing fluids deposited native gold in fractures, commonly during Precambrian to younger mountain-building events. Weathering can expose the gold and oxidize associated sulfides.

Uses & applications

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

Geological facts

Real gold remains yellow in all lighting, is notably heavy, and deforms rather than crumbles when pressed; pyrite and mica are common look-alikes. A professional assay is required for confirmation.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include Western Australia, California, Nevada, Canada, Ghana, and Brazil. Test density, streak, malleability, and acid response only with appropriate expertise; avoid destructive home testing.