Gold 
Badger Mine (Prescott Mine; Prescott Lode claim), Quartzburg, Hornitos Mining District, West Belt, Mariposa County, California
This intriguing native gold specimen presents as a large, elongated cluster composed of complex crystals that rise upward in a dynamic, sculptural formation. The Badger Mine is well known among collectors for producing distinctive leafy gold crystals, a habit that is quite characteristic of the locality and rarely seen elsewhere. Nearly every part of the specimen is covered with tightly packed, short leafy crystals, with smaller clusters growing around larger gold masses to create impressive depth and texture. The crystal surfaces also display secondary growth of fine microcrystals that catch the light beautifully, producing a lively sparkle across the specimen. The gold exhibits a richly saturated, buttery yellow color that enhances the overall visual impact. With its large size, intricate crystal development, and classic locality character, this specimen stands as an exceptional example from the Badger Mine and would make a superb addition to any serious mineral collection.
30 x 16 x 11 mm
1 gram