Natural Native Gold in Quartz Matrix Ore
Raw Gold Ore (Nugget/Specimen) · Natural Yellow Gold with trace silver/copper alloys
Purity: Approximately 20K to 23K (83% - 96% fine gold content based on typical native purity)
Type
Raw Gold Ore (Nugget/Specimen)
Purity
Approximately 20K to 23K (83% - 96% fine gold content based on typical native purity)
Gold Type
Natural Yellow Gold with trace silver/copper alloys
Weight
Total specimen weight approximately 15-25 grams; estimated gold content 1.5-3.0 grams
Description
A striking raw gold specimen featuring visible native gold leaves and crystalline structures deeply embedded in a dark mineral matrix. The piece shows distinct contrast between the rich, high-purity gold and the rugged grey host rock, often referred to as 'jewelry grade' ore by collectors.
Key Features
Visible 'leaf' gold formations, high contrast matrix, crystalline gold edges, and genuine quartz inclusions
Color & Finish
Deep buttery yellow gold with a crystalline metallic luster; dark grey basaltic or graphitic host rock with white milky quartz veins
Hallmarks & Stamps
None (Natural geological specimen)
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 35mm x 30mm x 15mm (Small cabinet specimen)
Gemstones & Inlays
Matrix consists of milky quartz and unidentified dark silicate/sulfide minerals; no processed gems
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (Raw mineral specimen)
Chain & Links
Not applicable (Rough natural texture)
Craftsmanship Details
Natural geological formation; no human craftsmanship present other than extraction and light cleaning
Authentication Indicators
Sectile (malleable) nature of gold vs. brittle fool's gold; color stays consistent in shadow; weight density; lack of brassy tarnish seen in pyrite
Origin & Maker
Likely hard-rock mining origin from Mother Lode (California), Australian Goldfields, or Canadian Shield; Nature/Earth formed
Era & Period
Contemporary/Geological (Billions of years old, recently extracted or found)
Age Estimate
Geological age (Paleozoic to Precambrian); roughly 100 million to 2.5 billion years old
Cultural Significance
Represents the primary state of wealth throughout human history; significant to the history of the 19th-century Gold Rushes.
Condition Notes
Natural unrefined state. Structure is stable but subject to minor flaking of matrix if handled roughly. Gold exhibits natural patina without chemical cleaning.
Value Estimate
Collectable specimen value: $250 - $450 USD (valued as a mineral specimen rather than just melt gold)
Care & Maintenance
Clean with distilled water only; avoid ultrasonic cleaners which may shatter the matrix; store in a padded acrylic display box
Similar Items
Gold-bearing Pyrite (Fool's Gold), Chalcopyrite, or Gold-plated rock fakes (distinguishable by weight and streak test)
Interesting Facts
Most gold is found as microscopic particles in ore; specimens with visible gold like this represent less than 1% of all gold mined.