Unprocessed Gold-Bearing Ore with Hematite Matrix
Raw Gold Ore (Mineral Specimen) · Native Yellow Gold (naturally alloyed with silver and copper)
Purity: Indeterminate raw purity; typically ranges from 70% to 95% within the native gold inclusions (16K-22K equivalent), but the bulk item is primarily iron-oxide/rock matrix.
Type
Raw Gold Ore (Mineral Specimen)
Purity
Indeterminate raw purity; typically ranges from 70% to 95% within the native gold inclusions (16K-22K equivalent), but the bulk item is primarily iron-oxide/rock matrix.
Gold Type
Native Yellow Gold (naturally alloyed with silver and copper)
Weight
35-50 grams (based on visual density for its size relative to the cardboard box surface)
Description
A dense, dark mineral specimen typically referred to as 'black sand' ore or gold-bearing hematite-magnetite matrix. The specimen lacks 'free-milling' visible gold on the surface, suggesting the gold content is locked within the crystalline structure or located in the interior of the specimen. It has a rough, pitted texture characteristic of placer-adjacent ore or hard-rock lode samples.
Key Features
High specific gravity, dark metallic sheen, irregular conchoidal-like fracturing on edges, and a lack of transparency.
Color & Finish
Dark charcoal to metallic black surface with a vitreous to sub-metallic luster. No visible surface gold; contains localized 'hot spots' of density potential.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None; natural geological specimen.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 3.0cm x 2.5cm x 1.5cm; organic irregular geometric shape.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; appears to contain associated minerals such as hematite, magnetite, or potentially crystalline quartz indicators.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (raw mineral).
Chain & Links
Not applicable (raw mineral).
Craftsmanship Details
Natural geological formation; no human craftsmanship present.
Authentication Indicators
The dark color and density are consistent with iron-oxide 'black stone' often associated with gold deposits; however, without visible gold stringers, presence must be verified via crushing/panning or XRF analysis. Red flag: lack of any yellow speckling suggests it may just be iron ore (Hematite).
Origin & Maker
Naturally occurring; common in artisanal mining regions such as West Africa, Australia, or the Americas.
Era & Period
Geological Formation (likely Precambrian or Cenozoic depending on the deposit source).
Age Estimate
Thousands to millions of years (geological age).
Cultural Significance
Represents the primary source of wealth in mining cultures; historically used as a diagnostic mineral for locating larger gold veins.
Condition Notes
Raw/uncleaned. Surface shows natural oxidation and weathering. Structural integrity is high (typical of iron-rich ores).
Value Estimate
Specimen value: $5 - $20 USD. Gold value: Potentially $0 if no gold is present, or significantly more if internal assays show high ppm concentrations. Value is primarily geological rather than bullion-based in its current state.
Care & Maintenance
Keep dry to prevent further oxidation; store in a padded specimen box to prevent scratching of softer surfaces. Do not use chemical cleaners.
Similar Items
Hematite, Magnetite, Galena (lead ore), or Cassiterite (tin ore).
Interesting Facts
Miners often look for 'Black Gold'—not gold that is black, but gold hidden inside heavy black minerals like magnetite or hematite which act as natural indicators of heavy metal deposits.