Auriferous Quartz in Gossan Matrix Specimen
Raw Gold (Lode/Hard Rock Ore) · Native Yellow Gold (Naturally alloyed with silver and copper traces)
Purity: Natural Geological Grade (Estimated 75% to 95% native gold purity/18K-22K typical for local deposits)
Type
Raw Gold (Lode/Hard Rock Ore)
Purity
Natural Geological Grade (Estimated 75% to 95% native gold purity/18K-22K typical for local deposits)
Gold Type
Native Yellow Gold (Naturally alloyed with silver and copper traces)
Weight
350 - 500 grams total specimen weight
Description
This is a raw mineral specimen of gold-bearing ore. The specimen features a dense, iron-stained 'gossan' or oxidized rock matrix, which typically forms the 'cap' of a gold deposit. Embedded within the heavy, rusted matrix are pockets of quartz crystals. Upon close inspection, minute yellow metallic flecks and grains consistent with native gold are visible at the interfaces between the quartz and the iron-oxide host rock.
Key Features
Gossanous iron-oxide matrix (hematite/limonite), quartz crystal vugs, and trace native gold mineralization.
Color & Finish
Deep ochre and reddish-brown matrix with glassy quartz and buttery yellow metallic specks; dull earthy patina on host rock
Hallmarks & Stamps
None (Natural geological specimen)
Dimensions Estimate
8cm x 7cm x 4cm (Width x Height x Depth estimate)
Gemstones & Inlays
Natural Quartz crystal inclusions (milky and smoky variants) within an iron-oxide rich gossan host
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (Raw geological ore)
Chain & Links
Not applicable (Crystalline and amorphous mineral structure)
Craftsmanship Details
Natural hydrothermal formation; crystals formed through slow mineral precipitation in high-pressure subterranean fissures.
Authentication Indicators
Color consistency with native gold (does not tarnish like pyrite), association with quartz and iron-oxides, lack of crystal faces on metallic flecks (sectility indicator).
Origin & Maker
Natural Earth (Likely volcanic or hydrothermal vein deposit; visual context suggests artisanal mining locale)
Era & Period
Geological Era (Formation potentially millions of years old)
Age Estimate
Geological age; extracted recently based on fresh soil adherence
Cultural Significance
Represents the primary source of wealth in mining-dependent cultures and the raw form of gold before refining and craftsmanship.
Condition Notes
Fair (Raw mineral state). Significant soil residue, oxidation, and weathering characteristic of surface-level extraction.
Value Estimate
Specimen Value: $150–$400 based on aesthetic; Gold Content Value: Variable depending on assay (likely low gram-per-ton yield unless significant hidden nuggets exist).
Care & Maintenance
Do not use ultrasonic cleaners; clean with soft brush and distilled water; store in a dry environment to prevent further iron oxidation/rusting of the host rock.
Similar Items
Iron Pyrite (Fool's gold) which is harder and more brittle; Chalcopyrite (copper-iron sulfide) which has a more greenish-grey tarnish.
Interesting Facts
The presence of 'Iron Hats' or gossans was the primary indicator used by 19th-century prospectors to find major gold lodes beneath the earth's surface.