Natural Gold-Bearing High-Grade Quartz Specimen
Raw Gold (Specimen in Matrix) · Native Yellow Gold in Quartz/Host Rock
Purity: Estimated 20K-23K (83%-96% purity); Typical for natural native gold which usually contains 5-15% silver.
Type
Raw Gold (Specimen in Matrix)
Purity
Estimated 20K-23K (83%-96% purity); Typical for natural native gold which usually contains 5-15% silver.
Gold Type
Native Yellow Gold in Quartz/Host Rock
Weight
Estimated total weight 15-25 grams; native gold content uncertain without specific gravity testing.
Description
A rugged and visually striking high-grade gold specimen featuring disseminated native gold embedded within a quartz matrix. The gold exhibits a high-luster, rich yellow hue characteristic of high purity, appearing as crystalline growths and leaf-like structures across the surface. The host rock shows significant iron staining, indicating a classic 'rusty' quartz vein origin often sought by prospectors.
Key Features
Native gold crystallization, visible metallic flecks throughout the matrix, and distinctive iron-oxide staining on the quartz surface.
Color & Finish
Vivid buttery yellow metallic luster for the gold; matte earthy grey and white for the host quartz and iron-stained matrix.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None; naturally occurring mineral specimens do not bear stamps.
Dimensions Estimate
Approx. 40mm x 35mm x 8mm; fits in the palm of a hand.
Gemstones & Inlays
Natural crystalline quartz matrix with visible iron oxide (limonite/hematite) staining.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (natural mineral specimen).
Chain & Links
Not applicable; rough, jagged natural fracture edges on the host rock.
Craftsmanship Details
Forged by geological heat and pressure (Hydrothermal deposition); no human intervention except for extraction and light cleaning.
Authentication Indicators
Sectile quality (gold is soft and doesn't shatter like pyrite/mica), high metallic luster even in low light, lack of crystal symmetry (unlike cubic pyrite).
Origin & Maker
Natural geological origin; likely from an orogenic gold deposit (e.g., California, Australia, or Canada).
Era & Period
Contemporary Recovery (Geological age: Millions of years).
Age Estimate
Geologically ancient; recently extracted from a lode deposit.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Gold Rush' archetype of the prospector’s find; symbolically linked to wealth, discovery, and the raw power of nature.
Condition Notes
Natural Raw Condition; features rough edges and natural fractures consistent with extraction from a hard-rock vein.
Value Estimate
Estimated $400 - $800; value is based on 'specimen premium' which exceeds the spot gold price due to aesthetic and collector demand.
Care & Maintenance
Do not use ultrasonic cleaners; clean only with distilled water and a soft brush. Store in a padded display case to prevent the soft gold from rubbing off.
Similar Items
Iron Pyrite (Fool's Gold) - lighter weight and brittle; Chalcopyrite - more brassy/greenish and crumbles easily.
Interesting Facts
Most gold is found as microscopic particles; specimens with this much 'visible gold' represent less than 1% of gold discovered worldwide.