Gold Nugget Spinel Twin
Sonora, Mexico
This extraordinary gold nugget, discovered in the arid Sonora Desert, is a highly rare mineral specimen that is often out of reach for collectors. It originates from the same deposit that the ancient Aztecs and Spanish Conquistadors mined to create currency, jewelry, and other significant commodities. The nugget displays very sculptural aesthetics with short water worn gold crystals branching out and rugged surfaces. The gold nugget displays a spinel twin crystal habit which are the uniquely shaped heavy crystals branching out from its middle. In other areas the gold developed into thick leaf gold with complex striations and overlapping patterns. The reverse side similar crystallized features are displayed with slightly smooth natural surfaces with a matching luster. This gold specimen is a substantial, chunky piece with a deep, saturated buttery yellow hue.
9 x 6 x 4 mm
0.99 gram