Auriferous Quartz Matrix Gold Ore
Raw Gold (Specimen in Matrix) · Native Yellow Gold in Quartz/Host Rock
Purity: Natural Purity (Likely 20K-23K / 85-98% fineness)
Type
Raw Gold (Specimen in Matrix)
Purity
Natural Purity (Likely 20K-23K / 85-98% fineness)
Gold Type
Native Yellow Gold in Quartz/Host Rock
Weight
15 grams to 35 grams (specimen total)
Description
This is a raw geological specimen consisting of an auriferous (gold-bearing) quartz matrix. The item shows a dense, greyish-brown host rock, likely an igneous or metamorphic silicate, bisected by a white quartz vein. Tiny specks of native yellow gold are visible embedded within the cracks and crevices of the quartz and rock contact points. Unlike refined gold, this piece represents the 'lode' form of gold before it is extracted or weathered into a riverbed nugget.
Key Features
Hydrothermal quartz veining, native gold inclusions, metamorphic host rock interface
Color & Finish
Raw metallic yellow gold inclusions; grey, brown, and white rocky matrix; earthy matte finish
Hallmarks & Stamps
None (Natural geological specimen)
Dimensions Estimate
35mm x 25mm x 15mm (Approximate length/width/height)
Gemstones & Inlays
No gemstones; contains quartz vein and silicate mineral host rock
Clasp & Closure
None (Natural geological formation)
Chain & Links
N/A (Rough ore specimen)
Craftsmanship Details
N/A (Natural formation; no human craftsmanship involved)
Authentication Indicators
Irregular crystalline gold structure, sectile metallic properties, presence of quartz 'mother' stone
Origin & Maker
Natural geological origin; Earth-formed via hydrothermal deposition
Era & Period
Modern Discovery (Geologically ancient, Neo-Archaean to Cenozoic)
Age Estimate
Approximately 50 million to 2.5 billion years old
Cultural Significance
Represents the historical 'Gold Rush' dream of finding a 'rich vein' or mother lode; symbolic of raw nature and potential wealth.
Condition Notes
Raw/Unprocessed Condition; sharp natural edges, presence of oxidation and iron staining
Value Estimate
Primarily specimen value; $50 - $250 USD depending on total contained gold weight and aesthetic appeal
Care & Maintenance
Keep dry; handle with care to avoid crumbling the matrix; clean only with distilled water and a soft brush
Similar Items
Crystalline Gold, Alluvial Gold Nuggets, Iron Pyrite (Fool's Gold) in Shale
Interesting Facts
Gold is often found in quartz veins because they both precipitate from the same hot, mineral-rich fluids deep in the Earth's crust.