mineral

Native Gold Nugget

Native Gold (Au)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 2.5-3.0 Mohs; Color: Golden yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 19.3 (pure)

Hardness: 2
Color: Golden yellow
Luster: Metallic

Identified May 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.5-3.0 Mohs; Color: Golden yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 19.3 (pure)

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal quartz veins or concentrated in alluvial placer deposits through erosion. Often associated with volcanic activity or metamorphic terrain.

Uses & applications

Used in jewelry, electronics, dentistry, financial reserves, and as a highly sought-after collector item.

Geological facts

Gold is one of the least reactive chemical elements and is solid under standard conditions. Most of the gold found on Earth arrived via meteorite impacts billions of years ago.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its high density (heavy for its size), malleability (it dents rather than shatters), and persistent color even in shade. Common in quartz-heavy stream beds.