Gold

This is a scarce and small but attractive specimen of native gold on quartz from the famous Val-d’Or (“Valley of Gold”) region of Québec. While the exact mine of origin is unknown, hardly surprising given that more than two dozen gold producers have operated in the district, the specimen is makes for a good representative of this prolific area.

Val-d’Or lies within the Abitibi Greenstone Belt, one of the world’s most important Archean gold-bearing regions, extending from Wawa, Ontario to Val-d’Or, Québec. Gold mineralization here occurs primarily within shear zones hosted by volcanic and sedimentary rocks. Since mining began in the early 20th century, the Abitibi gold belt has produced gold from more than 100 mines, with total output exceeding 170 million ounces.

Specimens of gold on quartz from Val-d’Or are increasingly difficult to obtain, making this piece a fine addition for collectors of classic Canadian gold localities or Archean lode-gold specimens.