mineral
Native Gold (in earring form)
Gold (Au)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 2.5–3 on Mohs scale; Color: Golden yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 19.3 (very high density).
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- Golden yellow
- Luster
- Metallic
Identified More mineral →
Explore Native Gold (in earring form) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 2.5–3 on Mohs scale; Color: Golden yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 19.3 (very high density).
Formation & geological history
Formed primarily in hydrothermal quartz veins or as placer deposits in sedimentary environments; often associated with volcanic activity and tectonic plate boundaries.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in jewelry, electronics (due to high conductivity), medicine, and as a financial standard or investment.
Geological facts
Gold is incredibly ductile; a single ounce can be drawn into a wire 50 miles long. It is also chemically inert, meaning it does not rust or tarnish.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its high density, metallic luster, and sectility (can be cut with a knife). Commonly found in the Witwatersrand basin (South Africa), Nevada, and Western Australia.
