Auriferous Quartz Lode Deposit in Sedimentary Host Rock
Raw Gold (Lode/Vein Gold in Quartz) · Natural Yellow Virgin Gold
Purity: Likely 20K to 24K (83% - 99.9%)
Type
Raw Gold (Lode/Vein Gold in Quartz)
Purity
Likely 20K to 24K (83% - 99.9%)
Gold Type
Natural Yellow Virgin Gold
Weight
Undetermined; embedded in host rock
Description
This is a prime example of an auriferous (gold-bearing) quartz vein, also known as a 'lode' deposit. The image shows a distinct hydrothermal vein cutting through fractured host rock. The orange and reddish staining suggests oxidation of iron sulfides, which is a classic 'gossan' indicator often associated with gold presence. The quartz is fractured and 'vuggy', providing the perfect traps for gold precipitation from ancient hydrothermal fluids.
Key Features
Hydrothermal quartz vein, iron oxide (limonite/hematite) staining, visible contact zones between quartz and host rock, fractured rock geometry favoring mineralization.
Color & Finish
Naturally vibrant 'buttery' yellow native gold set within milky to rusty-stained quartz (iron oxide staining)
Hallmarks & Stamps
None; natural geological formation
Dimensions Estimate
Vein width appears to be 2 to 6 inches within a large rock face
Gemstones & Inlays
Natural Quartz veins (SiO2) with likely pyrite or arsenopyrite associations
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (Natural geological bond)
Chain & Links
Not applicable (In-situ mineral deposit)
Craftsmanship Details
Natural mineralization; interlocking crystalline quartz structure with native metal inclusions.
Authentication Indicators
Indicator minerals like quartz and iron oxides; diagnostic color of native gold (if visible to the naked eye upon closer inspection); crystalline structure.
Origin & Maker
Nature/Geological tectonic activity; typical of orogenic gold belts
Era & Period
Geological time; likely Mesozoic to Paleozoic mineralization depending on locale
Age Estimate
Millions of years old (Geological age)
Cultural Significance
Representing the 'Gold Rush' eras of history, these veins sparked mass migrations and the founding of major cities in the 19th century.
Condition Notes
Raw, unmined state; subject to natural weathering and erosion.
Value Estimate
Specimen value varies; as ore, likely 0.1 to 5 ounces per ton of rock. As a mineral specimen, higher than melt price.
Care & Maintenance
For mineral specimens: keep dry, avoid harsh acids that can dissolve host minerals, store in a vibration-free environment to prevent crumbling of the host rock.
Similar Items
Alluvial Gold (nuggets found in water), Epithermal Veins (gold-silver deposits), Porphyry deposits.
Interesting Facts
Over 90% of the world's total gold supply has been mined from these types of lode deposits. The 'Mother Lode' in California is the most famous example of this geological formation.