Auriferous Quartz Matrix Gold Ore
Raw Gold (Gold Ore / Mineral Specimen) · Native Yellow Gold within a silicate/sulfide matrix.
Purity: Pending Assay; typically 18K to 23K (75%-95.8%) for native gold inclusions.
Type
Raw Gold (Gold Ore / Mineral Specimen)
Purity
Pending Assay; typically 18K to 23K (75%-95.8%) for native gold inclusions.
Gold Type
Native Yellow Gold within a silicate/sulfide matrix.
Weight
500 - 800 grams (Total weight of specimen including host rock).
Description
A substantial hard-rock gold specimen featuring visible gold stringers distributed throughout a dark, mineralized quartz and sulfide matrix. This piece represents gold in its primary geological state before erosion into alluvial flakes. The specimen shows significant mineralization, suggesting it was sourced from a high-grade hydrothermal vein.
Key Features
Visible 'native gold' flecks, jagged fracture surfaces, and high density relative to typical rock.
Color & Finish
Natural metallic yellow luster against a dull, grey-to-brown host rock patina.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None; naturally occurring mineral specimen.
Dimensions Estimate
Approx. 12cm x 8cm x 5cm; oversized hand-held specimen.
Gemstones & Inlays
Natural Quartz, Pyrite, and Arsenopyrite inclusions within the matrix.
Clasp & Closure
Not Applicable; raw geological specimen.
Chain & Links
Not Applicable; rough-edged fracture surfaces from mineral extraction.
Craftsmanship Details
None (Nature-made); organic crystallization and hydrothermal deposition.
Authentication Indicators
Sectility (gold is soft and doesn't shatter like pyrite); metallic luster remains consistent in shadow.
Origin & Maker
Origin undetermined; likely from a hard-rock mining district (e.g., California, Australia, or Yukon).
Era & Period
Contemporary Geological Sample; Holocene/Modern recovery.
Age Estimate
Geologically millions of years old; recently extracted.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Gold Rush' heritage of prospecting and the foundation of the global monetary gold standard.
Condition Notes
Very Good (Raw); natural weathering on the exterior with fresh fracture faces exposing the internal minerals.
Value Estimate
Specimen Value $300 - $1,200; primarily based on collector appeal rather than pure gold weight (melt).
Care & Maintenance
Keep dry; do not clean with harsh chemicals as sulfides in the rock can oxidize (tarnish).
Similar Items
Iron Pyrite (Fool's Gold) - lighter weight, brittle, and cubic crystal structure compared to native gold.
Interesting Facts
Most of the world's gold is actually microscopic; specimens with 'visible gold' like this are rare and highly collectible.