Natural gold nuggets

Metallic yellow-gold color, bright metallic luster, usually irregular or rounded placer shapes, no cleavage, and very high density (specific gravity about 19.3). Mohs hardness is 2.5–3, so gold is soft, malleable, and easily scratched or flattened; the image’s color and form are consistent with gold, though testing is required.

Native gold forms in hydrothermal quartz veins and accumulates as placer nuggets when host rock weathers; stream transport rounds the pieces. Individual nuggets may be geologically ancient, commonly sourced from Precambrian or younger mineralized terrains.

Used primarily for jewelry, investment, electronics, dentistry, and scientific applications; attractive natural nuggets are collectible.

Gold is chemically resistant and does not tarnish, while its exceptional density makes nuggets feel unusually heavy for their size.

Common sources include Australia, Alaska, California, Canada, South Africa, and Brazil. Confirm with density, an acid test, XRF, or professional assay; pyrite and polished brass are common imitations.