Natural Native Gold in Quartz Matrix (Gold Ore Specimen)
Raw Gold Ore (Lode Gold Specimen) · Natural Native Yellow Gold in White/Oxidized Quartz Alloy
Purity: Geological Native Gold (Typically 85-95% pure gold, roughly 20K to 23K fineness)
Type
Raw Gold Ore (Lode Gold Specimen)
Purity
Geological Native Gold (Typically 85-95% pure gold, roughly 20K to 23K fineness)
Gold Type
Natural Native Yellow Gold in White/Oxidized Quartz Alloy
Weight
Indeterminate based on image; likely 50-200g total specimen weight with milligrams of visible gold
Description
A raw and rugged look into the earth's riches, this specimen features visible native gold leaf and crystalline flecks embedded within a vuggy quartz matrix. The contrast between the stark white quartz, the reddish-brown iron staining, and the brilliant metallic yellow of the gold creates a visually striking specimen for collectors. This is lode gold, found in situ within its primary host rock rather than worn smooth by river water.
Key Features
Natural crystalline gold structure, iron-stained 'rusty' quartz diagnostic of gold-bearing veins, and vuggy (void-filled) topography.
Color & Finish
Rich buttery yellow metallic luster within a rusty-red to creamy white iron-stained quartz surface
Hallmarks & Stamps
None; natural geological specimen (no assay or maker marks)
Dimensions Estimate
Estimated 2 to 4 inches in length; cabinet-sized specimen
Gemstones & Inlays
Natural Quartz (Silicon Dioxide) matrix with Iron Oxide (Limonite/Goethite) staining
Clasp & Closure
N/A (Natural Mineral Specimen)
Chain & Links
N/A (Rough jagged geological fracture planes)
Craftsmanship Details
N/A - Natural geological formation created by hydrothermal fluids cooling in rock fractures.
Authentication Indicators
Sectile (malleable) metallic appearance, lack of cubic cleavage (distinguishing it from pyrite), and high-density luster within quartz voids.
Origin & Maker
Natural geological formation; commonly found in mother lode regions (e.g., California, Australia, or Yukon)
Era & Period
Modern Mineral Collecting Era; Geologically formed millions of years ago
Age Estimate
Formed roughly 50 to 200 million years ago; recently mined/prospector find
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Gold Rush' era of prospecting and the primary source of all gold used in jewelry and currency throughout human history.
Condition Notes
Rough/Natural: Specimen shows fresh fractures, deep crevices, and natural oxidation typical of raw ore. Grade: Natural Mineral Specimen.
Value Estimate
Value is primarily based on 'Specimen Premium' (collectibility). Market value could range from $100 to $500 depending on the total weight of contained gold and aesthetic appeal.
Care & Maintenance
Do not use ultrasonic cleaners; clean with soft brush and distilled water if needed. Avoid acids that may dissolve the iron-oxide character. Store in a padded display case.
Similar Items
Gold-bearing Pyrite ('Fool's Gold'), Chalcopyrite, or placer gold nuggets (which are water-worn and lack the quartz matrix).
Interesting Facts
Most gold is mined from microscopic particles in ore; specimens with visible gold like this are much rarer and often kept for museum or private collections rather than being crushed for melt.