Gold-Bearing Quartz Ore Specimen
Raw Gold Ore / Mineral Specimen · Native Gold in Quartz Matrix (Yellow Gold alloyed with Silver)
Purity: Varies; typically 18K to 23K (75-96% purity) within the native gold grains
Type
Raw Gold Ore / Mineral Specimen
Purity
Varies; typically 18K to 23K (75-96% purity) within the native gold grains
Gold Type
Native Gold in Quartz Matrix (Yellow Gold alloyed with Silver)
Weight
Indeterminate from image; estimated between 500g and 2,000g based on rock volume
Description
An unprocessed mineral specimen consisting of a silica-rich quartz host rock containing disseminated native gold. The item displays a sedimentary or metamorphic layered texture with a dusty tan patina and jagged, angular edges characteristic of excavated lode ore.
Key Features
Heterogeneous distribution of metallic yellow grains within a dense quartz/silicate matrix and visible cleavage planes
Color & Finish
Matte buff/tan host rock with subtle metallic yellow flecks; rough, natural fractured finish
Hallmarks & Stamps
None (Natural specimen; lacks stamps or refinery hallmarks)
Dimensions Estimate
Estimated 10cm x 15cm x 8cm (Hand-sized specimen)
Gemstones & Inlays
Natural crystalline quartz matrix; possible pyritic inclusions
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (Raw mineral specimen)
Chain & Links
Not applicable (Natural rock fracture surfaces)
Craftsmanship Details
N/A (Natural geological formation; no human craftsmanship present)
Authentication Indicators
Irregular jagged shape of visible metal (unlike rounded alluvial nuggets); host rock consistency with known gold-bearing geological formations
Origin & Maker
Natural geological origin; Earth's crust; likely a lode deposit source
Era & Period
Modern Geological/Mining Era (Holocene collection)
Age Estimate
Primary mineralization likely millions of years old; post-extraction specimen
Cultural Significance
Represents the primary source of human wealth since the Bronze Age; symbolizes the 'Lode Gold' mining history of regions like California and South Africa.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; shows typical oxidation of host minerals and rough fracturing from extraction. No signs of post-extraction refining.
Value Estimate
Primarily specimen value; likely $20-$100 depending on actual gold content (GPT - 'Grams Per Ton' assay)
Care & Maintenance
Keep dry; use a soft brush for dust; do not use harsh chemicals that may dissolve the host rock or oxidize sulfides.
Similar Items
Iron Pyrite ('Fool's Gold'), Chalcopyrite, or Auriferous Quartzite (lower grade)
Interesting Facts
Most gold is found in such rocks and is invisible to the naked eye; 1 ton of such rock rarely yields more than 5-10 grams of pure gold.