Gold-Bearing Quartz Ore Specimen (Lode Gold)
Raw Gold Ore Specimen · Natural Native Gold in Milky Quartz Matrix
Purity: Likely 20K-23K (83-97% pure) within the natural veins. Natural gold is rarely 24K pure and contains trace silver or copper.
Type
Raw Gold Ore Specimen
Purity
Likely 20K-23K (83-97% pure) within the natural veins. Natural gold is rarely 24K pure and contains trace silver or copper.
Gold Type
Natural Native Gold in Milky Quartz Matrix
Weight
12 lbs 14.4 oz (Total weight of the rock/ore specimen as shown on the scale)
Description
A substantial specimen of gold-bearing quartz ore. The host rock is a classic milky quartz featuring heavy iron-oxide staining, which often indicates the presence of hydrothermal gold deposits. Visible gold appears as fine specks and thin crystalline stringers embedded within the fractures of the quartz.
Key Features
High-contrast white quartz, iron gossan staining (rust color), and heavy mass relative to size indicating mineral density.
Color & Finish
Natural unrefined yellow gold flakes/veins within a white milky quartz and iron-oxide stained (orange/brown) matrix.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None (Natural geological specimen). No man-made markings are present on raw ore.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 8 to 10 inches in width and 5 to 7 inches in height based on scale platform proportions.
Gemstones & Inlays
Natural crystalline quartz matrix. No cut gemstones or intentional inlays.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (Raw geological specimen).
Chain & Links
Not applicable; however, internal gold structure likely consists of micro-veins or disseminated particles.
Craftsmanship Details
Natural geological crystallization. No man-made craftsmanship; formations governed by hydrothermal pressure and temperature.
Authentication Indicators
Serration and malleability of visible yellow metallic flecks; iron-staining association; density/weight consistent with mineralized quartz.
Origin & Maker
Natural geological formation; commonly found in 'Mother Lode' regions like California, Australia, or Canada.
Era & Period
Geological Formation (Millions of years old); contemporary discovery.
Age Estimate
Proterozoic to Cenozoic formation date; recently excavated from a primary lode deposit.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Gold Rush' era prospecting methods where miners searched for the 'Source' or Mother Lode in hard rock.
Condition Notes
Raw/Natural state. Surface is rugged with natural fractures. No signs of chemical leaching or mechanical crushing.
Value Estimate
Subjective. Primarily 'Specimen Value' based on visible gold content. Melt value is significantly lower than total weight as the quartz constitutes 95%+ of the mass.
Care & Maintenance
Keep dry to prevent further oxidation of sulfide minerals; do not use harsh acids which may dissolve the host matrix; store on a sturdy reinforced shelf.
Similar Items
Iron Pyrite (Fool's Gold) or Chalcopyrite. Unlike gold, these minerals are brittle and crush to black powder rather than flattening.
Interesting Facts
Gold in quartz is the primary source of 'lode gold.' As this rock erodes over millennia, the gold is released to become 'placer gold' found in rivers.