mineral

Native gold nugget

Native gold (Au), possibly gold-bearing quartz or iron-oxide matrix

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small rounded, naturally worn metallic yellow specimen with irregular texture and bright brassy luster. Gold has Mohs hardness 2.5–3, cubic crystal structure, no cleavage, and very high specific gravity (~19.3); its unusually heavy feel and malleability help distinguish it from pyrite.

Identified September 16, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Native gold nugget
Scientific name: Native gold (Au), possibly gold-bearing quartz or iron-oxide matrix
Category: mineral
Identified: September 16, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

If genuine, approximately $50–$300+ depending mainly on weight, fineness, and provenance; melt value is determined by gold content, currently roughly $70–$80 per gram for pure gold.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely formed by hydrothermal mineralization, then liberated and rounded by stream transport; gold deposits range from Precambrian to Cenozoic in age. The image alone cannot confirm composition, and brass-colored sulfides or gold-coated rock are alternatives.

Uses & applications

Native gold is refined for jewelry, electronics, dentistry, investment, and decorative specimens. Nuggets have collector value beyond their melt value when locality and authenticity are documented.

Geological facts

Gold does not tarnish readily and leaves a yellow streak; pyrite is harder, brittle, and often forms angular crystals. A specific-gravity test, streak test, and professional assay are safer than destructive testing.

Field identification & locations

Common placer sources include Alaska, California, Australia, Canada, and South America. Test with an unglazed porcelain streak plate only cautiously; reliable identification requires density measurement or X-ray fluorescence.