Crystallized Gold on Quartz
Round Hill Mine, 750' Level
El Dorado County, California U.S.A.
 
A truly exceptional and rare native gold specimen, this piece showcases an impressive combination of crystallization, structure, and aesthetic balance. Robust, thick gold crystals have grown together to form a solid, sculptural mass gracefully perched on contrasting white quartz. The specimen glows with a vibrant buttery yellow color, while its highly reflective crystal faces produce a dazzling, gem like brilliance under light. The crystallization becomes even more captivating as portions of the gold develop into elegant dendritic formations, with branching crystals naturally interwoven throughout the specimen. Careful examination reveals sharply defined crystal striations and delicate flat microcrystals that testify to the specimen's exceptional quality. The bright quartz matrix provides a dramatic backdrop that accentuates every detail of the crystallized gold. Combining rarity, outstanding aesthetics, and exceptional crystal development, this is a superb example from one of the locality's finest occurrences.
20 x 15 x 7 mm
2.15 grams