Crystallized Gold on Quartz
Belshazzar Mine, Quartzburg District, Boise County, Idaho
This gold specimen exhibits a slightly modified crystal habit, meaning its crystal growth was subtly altered the character of the gold crystal by geological processes during formation. It features rare, short pseudowire crystals an unusual form of gold that mimics the appearance of true wire crystals. These intricate pseudowires cluster together, overlapping and crossing to create a complex and visually engaging structure. The gold is set on a dark, smoky quartz matrix, providing strong contrast to the bright metal. On the reverse side, additional well-formed wire crystals can be seen alongside pseudowires within a shallow gray quartz cavity, adding further interest and dimension. The gold displays a rich, saturated buttery-yellow color with thick, sturdy crystal forms. The darker matrix enhances the brilliance of the gold, resulting in a highly attractive and captivating native gold specimen.
27 x 22 x 16 mm
6.22 grams