Auriferous Quartz Specimen (Native Gold in Matrix)
Raw Gold (Specimen in Matrix) · Native Yellow Gold within White/Rusty Quartz
Purity: Native gold typically ranges from 20K to 23K (83% to 96% purity); the host rock is non-precious quartz and silicate
Type
Raw Gold (Specimen in Matrix)
Purity
Native gold typically ranges from 20K to 23K (83% to 96% purity); the host rock is non-precious quartz and silicate
Gold Type
Native Yellow Gold within White/Rusty Quartz
Weight
7 lbs 9.7 oz (Total weight of specimen and host rock)
Description
A substantial auriferous quartz boulder showing significant iron oxidation and 'rusty' patches, which are often geological indicators of gold-bearing hydrothermal vents. Small visible specks of gold appear nested within the quartz vugs and fractures.
Key Features
High-contrast milky quartz matrix, iron-oxide staining indicating 'gossan' presence, and massive weight suggesting a high mineral density.
Color & Finish
Natural buttery yellow metallic luster within a milky to iron-stained (rusty) matte quartz finish
Hallmarks & Stamps
None; natural geological specimens do not carry man-made stamps
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 8 x 6 x 5 inches based on scale and weight ratio
Gemstones & Inlays
Crystalline Quartz (host matrix), likely containing inclusions of iron pyrite or arsenopyrite
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable
Chain & Links
Not applicable; raw mineral structure with crystalline fractures
Craftsmanship Details
Natural crystalline formation; no human craftsmanship present.
Authentication Indicators
Sectility (gold can be cut or dented without shattering), golden-yellow streak, and specific gravity compared to typical quartz.
Origin & Maker
Natural geological formation; commonly found in hydrothermal vein deposits (e.g., California, Australia, or Alaska)
Era & Period
Geological (formed millions of years ago); Modern discovery
Age Estimate
Cretaceous to Cenozoic geological origin; recently unearthed
Cultural Significance
Historical center of the 1849 Gold Rush; symbolizes wealth in its most primal, unrefined state.
Condition Notes
Raw/Unrefined; contains original earth crust, fractures, and weathering. Grade: Natural Mineral Specimen.
Value Estimate
Primarily based on 'gold-to-rock' ratio determined by specific gravity testing; collector value may exceed melt value if visible gold is aesthetic.
Care & Maintenance
Do not use ultrasonic cleaners; clean with distilled water and a soft brush; store in a padded display case to prevent quartz chipping.
Similar Items
Gold-bearing pyrite (Fool's Gold), which is brittle and shatters, unlike malleable native gold.
Interesting Facts
Most gold is found in quartz because both are deposited by hot, mineral-rich water deep in the Earth's crust. Miners call this 'Quartz Gold'.