Natural Gold-Bearing Quartz Specimen with Crystalline Gold
Raw Gold (Nugget/Ore/Specimen) · Natural Yellow Gold in Host Matrix
Purity: Likely 20K to 23K (83% - 96% purity). Natural gold is rarely 24K and usually contains trace silver or copper.
Type
Raw Gold (Nugget/Ore/Specimen)
Purity
Likely 20K to 23K (83% - 96% purity). Natural gold is rarely 24K and usually contains trace silver or copper.
Gold Type
Natural Yellow Gold in Host Matrix
Weight
Total specimen weight estimated at 5-10 grams; gold content likely 1-2 grams based on visible surface area and internal pockets.
Description
A striking example of 'specimen gold' where native gold has crystallized within the fissures of a quartz matrix. The gold exhibits a dendritic/crystalline habit rather than being water-worn like a placer nugget. The host rock shows heavy iron oxidation, suggesting it was found in an oxidized zone near the surface (gossan).
Key Features
Crystalline gold structure, association with iron-stained quartz, high metallic luster, and irregular 'vuggy' surface texture.
Color & Finish
Vivid buttery yellow gold with a high metallic luster, set against a dull, oxidized brown and reddish-tan quartz/ironstone matrix.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None. As a raw geological specimen, it lacks man-made stamps or assay marks.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 20mm x 15mm x 10mm; small hand-sample size.
Gemstones & Inlays
Natural crystalline quartz matrix, showing micro-crystalline structures and iron-oxide staining (limonite/hematite).
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; raw mineral specimen.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; raw mineral specimen with naturally occurring jagged stone edges and crystalline gold interfaces.
Craftsmanship Details
Natural geological formation; hydrothermal deposition where gold-rich fluids cooled in silicate rock fractures.
Authentication Indicators
Sectility (gold is soft and can be poked with a needle without shattering), distinct high-density luster, and lack of cleavage in the yellow metallic portions (differentiating it from Pyrite).
Origin & Maker
Unknown geographic origin; appearance is consistent with hard-rock mining locations like California (Mother Lode), Australia (Victoria), or Alaska.
Era & Period
Contemporary Discovery (Geological Geological Era: Pre-Cambrian to Cenozoic depending on locality).
Age Estimate
Formation occurs over millions of years; recently extracted/discovered.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Gold Rush' archetype of mineralogy; highly sought after by 'rockhounds' and geological collectors as a trophy of nature's raw wealth.
Condition Notes
Natural uncut state. Surface shows some 'crushing' or impact marks likely from the extraction process (rock hammer or crusher). Matrix is friable.
Value Estimate
$200 - $450 USD. This value includes a 50-100% premium over the spot gold price due to its aesthetic 'specimen' quality for collectors.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean with harsh abrasives. Use an ultrasonic cleaner with caution as it may loosen the gold from the matrix. Store in a padded gem jar to prevent matrix crumbling.
Similar Items
Iron Pyrite (Fool's Gold) which is brittle and brassy; Chalcopyrite; Mica flakes in granite.
Interesting Facts
Gold specimens with visible quartz often sell for a significant premium over their 'melt' value because they are much rarer than refined gold or water-worn nuggets.