Native Gold in Quartz Matrix Specimen
Raw Gold Ore (Quartz Matrix) · Natural Yellow Gold in crystalline/leaf form within white milky quartz
Purity: Estimated 20K-23K (83%-96%); high fineness natural native gold
Type
Raw Gold Ore (Quartz Matrix)
Purity
Estimated 20K-23K (83%-96%); high fineness natural native gold
Gold Type
Natural Yellow Gold in crystalline/leaf form within white milky quartz
Weight
13.4 ounces (379.88 grams) total specimen weight; gold content is a fraction of total
Description
A significant raw specimen featuring visible native gold leaf and crystalline structures embedded in a thick block of milky white quartz. The gold displays a beautiful high-purity yellow hue contrast against the white matrix. The specimen shows significant iron oxide (rust) coloring at the base, typically indicative of high-yield gold-bearing zones in quartz veins.
Key Features
High-contrast visible gold, substantial 13.4oz total mass, natural crystalline habit, and distinctive iron-stained quartz matrix.
Color & Finish
Deep buttery yellow natural gold flakes; matrix is matte/crystalline milky white quartz with iron oxide staining
Hallmarks & Stamps
None; natural geological specimen (no man-made markings)
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 4.5 to 5.5 inches in length; based on weight and standard kitchen scale proportions
Gemstones & Inlays
None; secondary minerals include Milky Quartz and likely Iron Pyrite or Arsenopyrite traces
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; raw mineral specimen
Chain & Links
Not applicable; jagged natural geological break edges
Craftsmanship Details
Natural geological formation; hydrothermal deposition resulting in fine-grained gold crystallization within silicate host rock.
Authentication Indicators
Sectile nature of yellow inclusions (if it flattens with a needle rather than shattering). The color is consistent with high-purity native gold rather than the pale brassy hue of pyrite.
Origin & Maker
Unknown locality; likely Western USA (California/Nevada), Australia, or Canada 'Mother Lode' type deposit
Era & Period
Contemporary Geological Find; formation occurred millions of years ago in hydrothermal veins
Age Estimate
Formation: 50-200 million years; Extraction: Likely within the last 5-10 years
Cultural Significance
Iconic representation of the 'Gold Rush' era prospecting; symbolizes wealth and the raw power of geological formation.
Condition Notes
Raw/Unfinished. The quartz has jagged, unpolished surfaces. Gold is securely embedded. Overall Very Good as a natural mineral specimen.
Value Estimate
Melt value is low (gold is thin); Collector/Specimen value is high (Estimated $300 - $800 depending on actual gold volume inside).
Care & Maintenance
Clean with distilled water only; avoid ultrasonic cleaners which may shatter the quartz or dislodge gold; store in a padded display case.
Similar Items
Gold-bearing Pyrite (Fool's Gold), which is brittle; Free-milling gold nuggets (removed from matrix); Gold-in-Matrix Cabochons (jewelry grade).
Interesting Facts
Most gold is mined from microscopic particles; specimens with visible gold like this represent less than 1% of the world's gold-bearing ores.