Gold Ore with Iron Oxides
Native Gold in Limonite/Hematite Matrix · Mineral Specimen / Industrial Ore
Crystal System
Isometric (Cubic); habit is typically massive, dendritic, or as microscopic grains within the matrix.
Mineral Group
Native Elements (Gold) and Oxides/Hydroxides (Iron Matrix)
Chemical Formula
Au (Gold) + Fe2O3·nH2O (Limonite) / Fe2O3 (Hematite)
Formation Process
Hydrothermal; typically formed from mineral-rich fluids in quartz veins or as secondary enrichment in the oxidation zone of sulfur-bearing ore deposits.
About This Crystal
A rugged, opaque mineral specimen showing metallic yellow flakes and grains (gold) disseminated through an earthy, ochre-to-brown matrix of iron oxides. The luster varies from metallic on the gold surfaces to dull/earthy on the host rock.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Yellow metallic grains on orange-brown background. Streak: Gold-yellow (gold), Yellow-brown (limonite). Fracture: Uneven. Specific Gravity: ~19.3 for gold, ~3-4 for matrix. Non-fluorescent.
Optical Properties
Opaque. Gold is highly reflective with a characteristic metallic luster. No birefringence or pleochroism due to opacity and cubic system.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Notable sources include Western Australia, Nevada (USA), South Africa, and the Klondike (Canada).
Hardness & Durability
Gold Mohs: 2.5-3 (very soft and malleable). Matrix Mohs: 4-6. Low durability; gold can be scratched easily or deformed.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals like mercury or cyanide which dissolve gold. Store separately to prevent scratching the soft metal.
Rarity & Value
Rarity: Uncommon to Rare depending on gold concentration. Value: Primarily determined by the weight of gold content and the aesthetic 'specimen value' for collectors.
Special Characteristics
Malleability (can be hammered flat without breaking), high density, and extreme chemical stability (resistance to oxidation/tarnish).
Lore & History
Historically used as currency and a symbol of wealth across all major human civilizations. Metaphysically associated with the sun, vitality, and the solar plexus chakra, symbolizing abundance and enlightenment.