Natural Gold-Bearing Quartz Ore Specimen
Raw Gold (nugget/flake in matrix) · Natural Native Gold with Quartz and Host Rock Matrix
Purity: High Purity (typically 85-95% or 20K-23K within the visible inclusions)
Type
Raw Gold (nugget/flake in matrix)
Purity
High Purity (typically 85-95% or 20K-23K within the visible inclusions)
Gold Type
Natural Native Gold with Quartz and Host Rock Matrix
Weight
150-250 grams (Total specimen weight; gold content likely less than 5g)
Description
A rugged mineral specimen featuring visible native gold leaf and crystalline structures embedded within a primary quartz matrix. The piece shows characteristic iron oxide staining and a mixture of silicate minerals, common in 'hard rock' lode deposits.
Key Features
Visible 'Free Gold' on the surface of quartz; crystalline fractures; natural geological weathering.
Color & Finish
Brilliant buttery yellow metallic flecks against milky white quartz and brownish iron-stained host rock.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None (Natural geological specimen)
Dimensions Estimate
65mm x 55mm x 40mm (Estimated handheld size)
Gemstones & Inlays
Crystalline Milky Quartz and possible Sulfide minerals (Pyrite/Arsenopyrite)
Clasp & Closure
Not Applicable (Natural ore)
Chain & Links
Not Applicable (Irregular earthen fracture surfaces)
Craftsmanship Details
Natural hydrothermal formation; no human craftsmanship involved.
Authentication Indicators
Metallic luster consistent with gold; lack of cubic crystal structure (distinguishing it from 'Fool's Gold' Pyrite); sectility (malleability) if tested with a pin.
Origin & Maker
Natural Geological Deposit (Likely hard rock mining origin)
Era & Period
Contemporary Geological Find (formed millions of years ago, recently extracted)
Age Estimate
Proterozoic to Mesozoic formation; recently mined
Cultural Significance
Represents the primary source of wealth for civilizations; the physical manifestation of the 'Gold Rush' era.
Condition Notes
Raw/Unfinished. Natural fractures and earthen patina visible. Grade: Specimen Quality.
Value Estimate
Determined by 'Specimen Value' (collectability) rather than melt. Estimated $150-$400 USD depending on total gold weight and visibility.
Care & Maintenance
Clean only with distilled water and a soft brush; avoid harsh acids which may dissolve the host matrix; store on a padded display base.
Similar Items
Pyrite (Iron Sulfide) in Quartz; Chalcopyrite; Gold-filled factory scrap (which this is not).
Interesting Facts
Most of the world's gold is found in quartz veins like this, formed by hydrothermal fluids deep in the Earth's crust.