Natural Native Gold Ore Specimen in Quartz Matrix
Raw Gold Ore (Lode Gold) · Native Yellow Gold (Placer/Lode alloy)
Purity: Estimated 20K to 23K (83% - 96% fine gold content) for the visible native gold inclusions. Natural gold is rarely 24K and typically contains silver as an alloy (electrum) or copper.
Type
Raw Gold Ore (Lode Gold)
Purity
Estimated 20K to 23K (83% - 96% fine gold content) for the visible native gold inclusions. Natural gold is rarely 24K and typically contains silver as an alloy (electrum) or copper.
Gold Type
Native Yellow Gold (Placer/Lode alloy)
Weight
Estimated total specimen weight 5g - 15g; gold content approximately 0.5g - 2.0g. As ore, the weight is primarily iron-stained quartz matrix rather than solid metal.
Description
This is a raw, unrefined gold ore specimen featuring visible wire or crystalline gold protruding from a fractured quartz and ironstone matrix. The gold displays a high-grade metallic luster and sectile texture characteristic of native elements. The host rock shows heavy iron staining, often referred to by miners as 'gossan,' which is a primary indicator of gold-bearing veins. Such specimens are highly prized by mineral collectors as 'jewelry grade' ore where the gold is visible to the naked eye.
Key Features
Visible crystalline gold structure; host matrix of hydrothermal quartz; distinct iron oxide 'rust' staining indicating mineralized vein material.
Color & Finish
Rich buttery yellow metallic luster within the crystals; the host rock exhibits a brownish-red iron oxidation (limonite) and a white-to-translucent quartz finish.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None. As a raw geological specimen, it lacks man-made stamps. Authenticity is determined by crystalline structure and density.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 15mm x 12mm x 10mm (sub-centimeter to small pebble size).
Gemstones & Inlays
Natural crystalline quartz matrix; possible iron oxide inclusions (hematite or limonite) giving the reddish hue.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; raw mineral specimen.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; raw mineral specimen.
Craftsmanship Details
Natural geological crystallization. The aesthetic appeal is determined by the 'exposure' of the gold, which appears naturally weathered or manually cleaned with mild acid to reveal the metallic facets.
Authentication Indicators
Sectile nature of yellow inclusions (malleable vs brittle pyrite); lack of cleavage in yellow areas; specific metallic luster that does not change under different lighting angles; presence of quartz matrix.
Origin & Maker
Natural geological formation; possibly sourced from a hard-rock mining district such as those in California (Mother Lode), Australia, or Canada.
Era & Period
Modern Geological Discovery; formed millions to billions of years ago during hydrothermal mineralization.
Age Estimate
Formation age: Early Cretaceous to Paleozoic; Recovery date: Likely contemporary (within last 10-20 years).
Cultural Significance
Raw gold specimens have been symbols of wealth and exploration since the first gold rushes. In mineralogy, they represent the 'source' of all currency and jewelry history.
Condition Notes
Natural raw state. No signs of chemical leaching (cyanidation) or mechanical crushing. Some handling wear on the quartz edges. Grade: High-grade collector specimen.
Value Estimate
Collectible value: $150 - $450 USD. While the melt value may only be $60-120, the premium for 'visible gold' in a natural matrix significantly exceeds the spot price of the metal content.
Care & Maintenance
Keep in a dry environment. Clean only with distilled water and a soft brush if necessary. Avoid acids which may dissolve the iron-rich matrix and weaken the specimen. Sensitive to mechanical shock.
Similar Items
Iron Pyrite (Fool's Gold) - different crystal structure (cubic) and brittle; Chalcopyrite - more iridescent and greenish; Mica - flaky and non-metallic.
Interesting Facts
The majority of the world's gold was delivered to Earth's crust by asteroid impacts and brought to the surface via hydrothermal vents. This specimen represents 'Lode Gold,' meaning it was found at its original source rather than being washed into a river (Placer Gold).