Gold-Bearing Quartz Specimen (Lode Gold Ore)
Raw Gold Ore (Lode Gold) · Native Yellow Gold (unrefined, naturally occurring alloy with silver and copper)
Purity: Natural gold in ore typically ranges from 70% to 95% (17K to 23K) in its native state, though the total gold-to-rock ratio in this specific large specimen appears low.
Type
Raw Gold Ore (Lode Gold)
Purity
Natural gold in ore typically ranges from 70% to 95% (17K to 23K) in its native state, though the total gold-to-rock ratio in this specific large specimen appears low.
Gold Type
Native Yellow Gold (unrefined, naturally occurring alloy with silver and copper)
Weight
12 lbs 14.4 oz (approx. 5,851 grams total specimen weight)
Description
A substantial cluster of gold-bearing quartz ore. This specimen features a heavy white quartz matrix laden with iron oxides, giving it a characteristic 'rusty' appearance favored by prospectors. Fine visible specks and stringers of native gold are interspersed within the quartz fractures and mineral veins.
Key Features
Substantial mass, vuggy quartz texture, visible mineralization, and significant weight for its size indicating high mineral density.
Color & Finish
Raw, crystalline yellow gold inclusions within white/tan milky quartz with iron oxide (rust) staining and dark mineral veining.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None; natural geological formation. No man-made markings present.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 8-10 inches in length and 5-6 inches in height based on scale comparisons.
Gemstones & Inlays
Host matrix is Milky Quartz with possible sulfide inclusions (pyrite or arsenopyrite) and limonite staining.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (Raw Geological Specimen)
Chain & Links
Not applicable (Rough Rock/Ore)
Craftsmanship Details
None (Natural creation). Created via hydrothermal deposition in metamorphic or igneous rock fractures.
Authentication Indicators
Color hue of visible gold, presence of iron-stained quartz (typical host), and weight-to-volume ratio consistent with mineralized rock.
Origin & Maker
Natural geological origin; likely from a hard-rock mining district in regions like California, Nevada, or Australia.
Era & Period
Geological formation: Likely Cenozoic or Mesozoic era depending on locale; Contemporary find.
Age Estimate
Millions of years old (geological formation); recently extracted.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Hard Rock' mining heritage of the 19th-century gold rushes; symbolic of raw wealth and prospecting history.
Condition Notes
Raw, uncleaned, and unrefined. Natural weathering and oxidation present on the surface. Grade: Collector-grade raw ore.
Value Estimate
Primarily determined by 'gold-in-rock' content. Collector value: $400-$1,200 depending on total visible gold content; significantly less than the value of solid gold of equal weight.
Care & Maintenance
Keep dry to prevent further oxidation of sulfide minerals. Clean with soft brush and water; avoid harsh chemicals that may dissolve the iron staining which provides character.
Similar Items
Placer gold (nuggets), Pyrite (Fool's Gold), and Auriferous Pyrite ore.
Interesting Facts
Quartz is the most common host for gold because silica-rich hydrothermal fluids often transport gold from the earth's crust into veins.