mineral

Gold Nugget

Native Gold (Au)

Hardness: 2.5-3.0 Mohs; Color: Metallic yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic (often lacks visible crystal faces in nugget form); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 15.6–19.3 (very heavy)

Hardness: 2
Color: Metallic yellow
Luster: Metallic

Identified April 10, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal quartz veins via hot fluids in the Earth's crust. Most nuggets are found in secondary placer deposits, where they have been eroded from primary veins and concentrated by water in streams and rivers.

Uses & applications

Used in jewelry, electronics (due to high conductivity), dentistry, financial reserves/investment, and aerospace technology.

Geological facts

Gold is incredibly malleable; a single ounce can be beaten into a sheet covering 100 square feet. It is one of the few elements naturally occurring in its native metallic state.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its high density (feels much heavier than it looks), malleability (it dents or bends rather than shattering when struck), and persistent yellow color in shade or sun. Commonly found in stream beds or ancient river gravels.