mineral

Native Gold (Placer Gold)

Native Gold (Au)

Hardness: 2.5-3.0 Mohs; Color: Golden yellow to brassy yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (hexoctahedral), often occurs as grains or nuggets; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 19.3 (very dense)

Hardness: 2
Color: Golden yellow to brassy yellow
Luster: Metallic

Identified May 8, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal quartz veins via volcanic activity. Placer gold specifically forms through the erosion of these lode deposits, with heavy particles settling in stream beds and river gravels over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Standard for monetary systems, high-end jewelry, electronics (conductors), dentistry, and aerospace engineering.

Geological facts

The largest gold nugget ever found was the 'Welcome Stranger' in Australia, weighing about 158 lbs. Gold is so malleable that a single ounce can be beaten into a sheet covering 100 square feet.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its extreme weight for its size (density) and its malleability; unlike pyrite, gold will dent or flatten when hit rather than shatter. Look in 'black sand' deposits in river bends.