Raw Gold Ore Specimen with Lapis Lazuli and Quartz Matrix
Raw Gold (nugget, dust, flake) · Yellow Gold (natural native gold with metallic sheen and bright reflective spots)
Purity: Natural Native Gold, estimated 70% to 90% purity (16K-21K natural alloy containing silver and trace elements)
Type
Raw Gold (nugget, dust, flake)
Purity
Natural Native Gold, estimated 70% to 90% purity (16K-21K natural alloy containing silver and trace elements)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (natural native gold with metallic sheen and bright reflective spots)
Weight
Estimated between 5 to 15 grams based on visible dimensions within a raw matrix
Description
An intriguing raw mineral specimen featuring visible native gold leaf or fine flakes glistening across a complex host matrix of striking blue lapis lazuli and whitish quartz. The contrasting colors of deep blue and brilliant metallic gold offer a visually captivating piece for mineral collectors and raw gold enthusiasts alike. The rugged, unpolished surface retains its authentic geologic character straight from the earth.
Key Features
Direct association of native gold flakes with a rich blue lapis lazuli and quartz matrix, completely unrefined and natural
Color & Finish
Metallic bright yellow gold flecks embedded in a multicolored matrix featuring deep royal blue, white, and greyish minerals
Hallmarks & Stamps
None, as this is an unrefined natural raw mineral specimen directly from a mining source
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 25mm to 35mm in length, irregular rough shape
Gemstones & Inlays
Natural host rock matrix containing crystalline quartz and vibrant blue lapis lazuli or lazurite inclusions alongside native gold flecks
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable as this is a loose, unmounted raw mineral specimen
Chain & Links
Not applicable for unrefined raw minerals
Craftsmanship Details
Unworked natural creation shaped entirely by geological forces, hydrothermal activity, and mineral deposition over vast stretches of time
Authentication Indicators
Irregular crystalline structure, absence of uniform human-made stamps, varied metallic luster of native gold against silicate rock, requires specific gravity or XRF testing for definitive gold verification
Origin & Maker
Natural geological origin, likely sourced from a gold and lapis-bearing deposit such as those found in Afghanistan, Chile, or California
Era & Period
Contemporary natural geological formation, millions of years old
Age Estimate
Geological age spanning millions of years, freshly extracted specimen
Cultural Significance
Raw gold and lapis lazuli both hold thousands of years of human history, with lapis prized by ancient Egyptians and Mesopotamians, and gold serving as the ultimate universal currency and symbol of divine power
Condition Notes
Natural rough mineral state with expected matrix crumbly edges, raw fractures, and unpolished surfaces straight from extraction
Value Estimate
Valued primarily as a mineral specimen rather than melt weight due to the host rock matrix and aesthetic appeal, typically commanding a collector premium well above the raw gold spot melt value
Care & Maintenance
Handle with clean dry hands or soft tongs to avoid contaminating the delicate matrix, store in a padded mineral display case, avoid harsh chemical cleaners or ultrasonic baths which can damage the host rock
Similar Items
Quartz gold-bearing ore veins, gold-in-matrix display specimens, placer gold nuggets
Interesting Facts
Native gold is rarely found pure; it is almost always naturally alloyed with silver (known as electrum) and sometimes copper. Specimens combining gold with lapis lazuli are highly decorative and sought after by mineral collectors.