Gold-Bearing Quartz Specimen (Matrix Ore)
Raw Gold Ore (Lode Gold in Quartz) · Native Yellow Gold (unrefined) typically alloyed naturally with trace silver (electrum).
Purity: Likely 20K-23K (83%-96%) naturally occurring pure gold within a host rock matrix of silica/quartz.
Type
Raw Gold Ore (Lode Gold in Quartz)
Purity
Likely 20K-23K (83%-96%) naturally occurring pure gold within a host rock matrix of silica/quartz.
Gold Type
Native Yellow Gold (unrefined) typically alloyed naturally with trace silver (electrum).
Weight
35-65 grams total mass (including host rock); actual gold content likely <1 gram based on visible surface traces.
Description
An attractive raw specimen of gold-bearing quartz. The host rock displays a characteristic greyish-white 'bull quartz' appearance with significant iron oxide oxidation (orange-brown staining) which often indicates the presence of precious metals. Small, disseminated specks of native gold are visible within the crevices and surface of the quartz matrix, making it a classic 'lode gold' sample favored by prospectors and mineral collectors.
Key Features
Conchoidal quartz fractures, heavy iron-oxide staining (limonite/hematite), and native gold inclusions within a crystalline silica host.
Color & Finish
Vitreous to waxy luster on greyish-white quartz; natural rough-hewn surface; gold traces appear as metallic yellow flecks/veins with iron oxide (rust) staining.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None. As a raw geological specimen, there are no refinery stamps or maker marks.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 45mm x 35mm x 25mm (Medium specimen size).
Gemstones & Inlays
Natural Quartz (SiO2) matrix with potential iron oxide and sulfide inclusions.
Clasp & Closure
None (Natural rock specimen).
Chain & Links
N/A - Rough geological fracture edges showing conchoidal and irregular breakage patterns.
Craftsmanship Details
Natural geological formation via hydrothermal vein deposition; no human craftsmanship involved.
Authentication Indicators
Sectility (gold is soft and can be poked with a needle unlike pyrite), high luster in shade, and association with typical hydrothermal quartz minerals. Red flag: Pyrite ('Fool's Gold') would appear more brassy and brittle.
Origin & Maker
Natural origin; likely from a hard-rock mining district (e.g., California Mother Lode, Australia, or Canadian Shield).
Era & Period
Contemporary Geological Discovery (Holocene/Modern extraction); formed millions of years ago through hydrothermal deposition.
Age Estimate
Geological age: millions of years; Recovery age: likely within the last 10-20 years.
Cultural Significance
Represents the primary source of the 19th-century gold rushes (California 1849, Klondike 1896) where miners sought the 'Mother Lode' in solid rock.
Condition Notes
Natural raw state; exhibits sharp edges from recent extraction; surface shows typical weathering of a mineral specimen. Grade: Raw Specimen.
Value Estimate
Collector/Specimen value: $40 - $120 depending on visible gold content. Melt value is negligible as gold volume is low relative to the stone's mass.
Care & Maintenance
Keep dry; clean only with distilled water and a soft brush; avoid acids which may dissolve iron staining and change the specimen's character.
Similar Items
Iron Pyrite (Fool's Gold), Chalcopyrite, or Gold-plated Quartz (artificially enhanced). Distinguishable by gold's unique density and malleability.
Interesting Facts
Quartz and gold have a strong chemical affinity in hydrothermal veins because the same superheated fluids that deposit silica often transport dissolved gold.