Natural Raw Gold Flake (Lode or Placer Sample)
Raw Gold (Flake/Nugget) · Yellow Gold (Natural Native Alloy)
Purity: High Purity (Typically 20K-23K or 80-95% Fineness)
Type
Raw Gold (Flake/Nugget)
Purity
High Purity (Typically 20K-23K or 80-95% Fineness)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Natural Native Alloy)
Weight
0.1 to 0.5 grams
Description
A flat, irregular specimen of natural gold recovered from geological deposits. This piece exhibits characteristic flattened geometry often resulting from river transport or tectonic compression. It lacks the precision of minted products, instead showcasing the organic allure of raw precious metal exactly as it was found in the earth.
Key Features
Planar irregular edges, lack of stamps, high luster despite surface pits, and high density relative to size.
Color & Finish
Pale to bright yellow with naturally matte, pitted, and irregularly textured surface
Hallmarks & Stamps
None (Natural specimen)
Dimensions Estimate
Approx. 5mm to 8mm in diameter; sub-millimeter thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None; ممکن presence of microscopic quartz or iron oxide inclusions
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (Raw specimen)
Chain & Links
Not applicable (Raw specimen)
Craftsmanship Details
N/A (Constructed by geological pressure, heat, and hydraulic action over millennia.)
Authentication Indicators
Sustained metallic luster under shade, irregular jagged edges, and lack of 'brassing' or plating flaking. High density is evident by its seated position on the finger.
Origin & Maker
Natural geological formation; recovered via prospecting/panning
Era & Period
Contemporary Recovery (Geological age: millions of years)
Age Estimate
Geological formation: Pre-Quaternary; Recovery: Modern day
Cultural Significance
Represents the fundamental 'Gold Rush' dream and the primary form of wealth that drove global migrations in the 19th century.
Condition Notes
Natural state (Raw/Rough); exhibits typical geological wear and surface imperfections common to recovered placer gold.
Value Estimate
Primarily melt value based on spot price, with a small 5-10% premium for the 'specimen' status among collectors.
Care & Maintenance
Store in a small glass vial or 'gem jar' to prevent loss. Avoid forceful bending as high-purity gold is extremely malleable. Clean only with mild water if dirt is present.
Similar Items
Gold leaf (thinner/processed), mica/pyrite (brittle/flaky), or gold-plated solder drops (spherical and uniform).
Interesting Facts
Natural gold is almost never 24K pure; it always contains trace amounts of silver, copper, or iron which dictate its specific geographic 'fingerprint.'