Auriferous Quartz Lode Ore Sample
Raw Gold Ore (Lode Deposit) · Native Gold (elemental), often alloyed with silver (electrum) or trapped within sulfide minerals.
Purity: Geological grade varies; typically ranges from 0.01 to 50+ grams per tonne (g/t). This represents native gold in its raw geological state, not refined purity.
Type
Raw Gold Ore (Lode Deposit)
Purity
Geological grade varies; typically ranges from 0.01 to 50+ grams per tonne (g/t). This represents native gold in its raw geological state, not refined purity.
Gold Type
Native Gold (elemental), often alloyed with silver (electrum) or trapped within sulfide minerals.
Weight
Estimated 250 - 500 grams based on visible volume and typical density of mafic/silicic host rock.
Description
This is a raw specimen of auriferous (gold-bearing) ore. Unlike a nugget, the gold in this sample is 'refractory' or 'invisible,' meaning it is locked within the crystalline structure of the host rock or associated sulfide minerals. The rock displays a fine-grained, dark matrix typical of deep-seated hydrothermal vein deposits. Collectors prize such pieces as the 'source' of all refined gold products.
Key Features
Dense, dark matrix; presence of fine crystalline structures; possible micro-pyrite inclusions; characteristic heavy 'heft' compared to standard decorative stone.
Color & Finish
Dull Charcoal to dark grey host rock with iron-oxide staining; gold is not visible to the naked eye (invisible gold/microscopic gold). Finish is rough, natural matte, and granular.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None. Natural geological specimens do not bear hallmarks.
Dimensions Estimate
Approx 6cm x 5cm x 4cm; fits within the palm of a hand.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The sample contains mineral inclusions such as quartz, pyrite, or arsenopyrite within a basaltic or shale host matrix.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; raw mineral specimen.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; rugged, uneven fractured surfaces typical of hand-sampled ore.
Craftsmanship Details
Natural geological formation shaped by tectonic pressure and hydrothermal fluid precipitation.
Authentication Indicators
Density (Specific Gravity), presence of associated minerals (pyrite/quartz), and chemical assay are the only ways to confirm gold content in this rock type.
Origin & Maker
Natural geological formation; potentially from a major gold-producing greenstone belt (e.g., Abitibi in Canada, Witwatersrand in South Africa, or Western Australia).
Era & Period
Geological time; likely Precambrian to Cenozoic depending on the mining district of origin.
Age Estimate
Millions to billions of years (geological age); extraction date modern (within the last 50 years).
Cultural Significance
Represents the industrial foundation of the gold standard and the primary objective of the global mining industry.
Condition Notes
Natural fractured state. Surface shows minimal weathering, suggesting it was sourced from an underground mine rather than an alluvial surface deposit. Grade: Raw Specimen.
Value Estimate
Specimen value: $20 - $100 USD. Melt value: Negligible without industrial processing, as gold content per gram is very low.
Care & Maintenance
Keep dry to prevent oxidation of internal sulfide minerals. Use a soft brush for dusting. Do not use chemical cleaners as they may react with trace minerals.
Similar Items
Gold-in-Quartz specimens (where white quartz has visible gold veins); Pyrite (Fool's gold) which is lighter and more brittle; Galena.
Interesting Facts
The vast majority of the world's gold is recovered from ore just like this, where you cannot actually see the gold. It often takes crushing and chemical processing of an entire ton of this rock to produce just a few grams of pure gold.