Leaf Gold on Smokey Quartz Matrix
La Rinconada, Ananea district, San Antonio de Putina Province, Puno, Peru
 
Gold specimens from La Rinconada, Peru, are exceptionally rare, particularly in specimens of this size. La Rinconada is widely recognized as the world’s highest permanent human settlement and is also known for its gold-mining activity. Gold from many localities is commonly found associated with white quartz, making this specimen particularly unusual because the gold occurs with contrasting smoky quartz. Upon closer examination, the smoky quartz matrix reveals natural fractures and vein structures where gold can be seen within the stone, accompanied by associated sulfide minerals. This provides an interesting look at the natural setting in which the gold formed. The gold itself displays a rich, buttery yellow color and features secondary crystalline growth projecting from the surfaces of the main leaf like crystals. Many of these secondary crystals have an almost dendritic appearance, while others exhibit more clearly defined geometric forms, giving the gold a complex and highly three dimensional appearance. The surface is covered with numerous small, flat crystal faces that produce a remarkable sparkling luster. Under natural sunlight, these crystal surfaces catch and reflect the light from many different angles, intensifying the rich golden color and creating a striking brilliance across the specimen.
46 x 38 x 14 mm
17.35 grams