mineral

Small native-gold specimen (possible gold-bearing rock)

Native gold, Au; exact identification cannot be confirmed from the image

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Tiny irregular yellow metallic-looking grain with a rough surface; native gold has Mohs hardness 2.5–3, a cubic crystal structure, no cleavage, and specific gravity about 19.3. Image scale and lighting make visual identification uncertain.

Identified September 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Native gold forms in hydrothermal veins and in weathered deposits where it accumulates in stream gravels; its age depends on the deposit and cannot be determined from appearance.

Uses & applications

Gold is used in jewelry, coins, electronics, and collecting; a specimen this small has little material value unless verified and especially attractive.

Geological facts

Gold is exceptionally dense and malleable. A streak, density test, and professional analysis can distinguish it from pyrite or other look-alikes.

Field identification & locations

The pictured grain resembles gold but is too small for reliable identification; check for a yellow streak and malleability, and avoid destructive tests on a collectible. Gold occurs in many regions, including placer deposits and quartz veins.