mineral
Native Gold in Quartz Host
Hydrothermal Gold (Au) in Quartz (SiO2)
Hardness: 2.5-3 (Gold) and 7 (Quartz). Color: Metallic yellow gold within creamy white to grey host. Luster: Metallic. Crystal structure: Isometric (Gold), Trigonal (Quartz). Specific Gravity: 19.3 (Gold).
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- Metallic yellow gold within creamy white to grey host
- Luster
- Metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.5-3 (Gold) and 7 (Quartz). Color: Metallic yellow gold within creamy white to grey host. Luster: Metallic. Crystal structure: Isometric (Gold), Trigonal (Quartz). Specific Gravity: 19.3 (Gold).
Formation & geological history
Formed through hydrothermal processes where hot, mineral-rich fluids circulate through crustal fractures, depositing gold and quartz as they cool. Typically found in orogenic gold deposits or placer deposits after erosion.
Uses & applications
Primary source of gold for currency, jewelry, electronics, and global investment. Small specimens like these are highly sought after by collectors and prospectors.
Geological facts
Gold is one of the least reactive chemical elements and is solid under standard conditions. Most native gold contains traces of silver and copper.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its high density (heaviness), malleability (it dents rather than shatters), and persistent metallic yellow color under shade. Found in quartz veins or as grains in stream beds.
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