mineral

Tiny metallic mineral fragment, possibly native gold

Native gold (Au), unconfirmed; could also be pyrite or chalcopyrite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Very small yellow-metallic grain with bright luster; apparent hardness and crystal form cannot be determined from the image. Gold is Mohs 2.5–3, malleable, non-cleaving, and has high specific gravity (19.3); pyrite is harder (6–6.5) and brittle.

Identified August 12, 2026More mineral →

Explore Tiny metallic mineral fragment, possibly native gold in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

If gold, it formed through hydrothermal vein deposition or placer concentration, commonly associated with quartz and sulfide minerals. Geological age varies widely by deposit.

Uses & applications

Gold is used in jewelry, currency, electronics, and collecting; pyrite and chalcopyrite are chiefly ore minerals and specimens. A grain this small has negligible value unless analytically confirmed.

Geological facts

Color alone is insufficient for identification: gold remains yellow and deforms when pressed, whereas pyrite commonly forms angular crystals and powders dark greenish-black. The photograph cannot establish composition.

Field identification & locations

Common localities include gold-bearing quartz veins and stream placers worldwide. Test only if safe: gold is malleable and leaves a yellow streak; pyrite is brittle with a dark streak—acid or density testing should be done professionally.