mineral

Gold Nugget

Native Gold (Au)

Hardness: 2.5-3.0 Mohs; Color: Metallic yellow to orange-yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 19.3 (very high)

Hardness: 2
Color: Metallic yellow to orange-yellow
Luster: Metallic

Identified April 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.5-3.0 Mohs; Color: Metallic yellow to orange-yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 19.3 (very high)

Formation & geological history

Primary deposits form in hydrothermal veins (quartz veins) through volcanic activity. Placer deposits (nuggets) form when veins erode and gold is concentrated by water in streams and rivers due to its extreme density.

Uses & applications

Currency, jewelry, electronics (excellent conductor), investment/bullion, and dentistry.

Geological facts

Gold is incredibly malleable; a single ounce can be beaten into a sheet covering 100 square feet. Most nuggets found in rivers are between 20k and 22k pure (83-92%).

Field identification & locations

Identify by its 'malleability' (it dents or flattens under pressure rather than shattering like pyrite) and its sectility (it can be cut with a knife). It remains bright yellow even in shadow or underwater.