Gold-Bearing Quartz Ore Specimen
Raw Gold (Ore/Matrix) · Native Yellow Gold in Quartz Matrix
Purity: Varies by inclusion (Natural native gold typically ranges from 20K to 23K or 83-96% fineness)
Type
Raw Gold (Ore/Matrix)
Purity
Varies by inclusion (Natural native gold typically ranges from 20K to 23K or 83-96% fineness)
Gold Type
Native Yellow Gold in Quartz Matrix
Weight
Undetermined (Total specimen weight includes significant rock mass; gold content estimated as a fraction)
Description
A raw mineral specimen featuring visible metallic inclusions within a rugged quartz matrix. The piece shows characteristic hydrothermal vein structure where gold often precipitates alongside quartz and sulfide minerals. The surface is uneven with crystalline pits and iron-oxide staining, typical of 'rusty quartz' found in auriferous zones.
Key Features
Visible metallic glint, quartz crystalline structure, iron-oxide (rust) staining indicating proximity to mineralized veins
Color & Finish
Medium to rich yellow metallic luster against milky white and iron-stained tan quartz; matte to crystalline natural texture
Hallmarks & Stamps
None (Natural geological specimen)
Dimensions Estimate
Estimate 5-10cm across specimen face (hand-sized)
Gemstones & Inlays
Primary matrix consists of Quartz (crystalline), with probable Iron Oxide (limonite/hematite) staining
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (Natural specimen)
Chain & Links
Not applicable (Natural specimen)
Craftsmanship Details
Natural geological formation; no human craftsmanship present
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic uneven metallic luster (unlike the uniform sheen of brass/pyrite); lack of cleavage in the gold-colored sections; association with quartz and iron staining
Origin & Maker
Earth-mined; common in hard rock mining districts (e.g., California Mother Lode, Alaska, or Australia)
Era & Period
Geological formation; Contemporary extraction/find
Age Estimate
Formed millions of years ago; recently extracted
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Hard Rock' mining era, particularly from the 19th-century gold rushes that shaped the Western United States and Australia
Condition Notes
Raw, unrefined condition; structural integrity dependent on the stability of the quartz matrix; surface contains natural dirt and oxidation
Value Estimate
Specimen value (varies significantly based on visible gold density and total weight; often sold by the 'piece' rather than spot price)
Care & Maintenance
Keep dry to prevent further oxidation of sulfide minerals; handle with care as quartz can be brittle; clean only with water and a soft brush if necessary
Similar Items
Iron Pyrite (Fool's Gold) which is harder and more brittle; Chalcopyrite which has a greener/multi-colored tint; Gold-filled quartz (man-made)
Interesting Facts
Most jewelry gold was once part of such ore; gold-bearing quartz is often sought by collectors as 'specimen gold' which can sometimes command a higher price than the melt value of the gold itself