mineral
Native Gold Nugget
Native Gold (Au)
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
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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.
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