*Note: Mercury dime is shown for scale and is not included with purchase.
 
This 1.444 gram gold nugget from the Yukon Territory is a visually compelling natural specimen that combines solid gold with clearly visible attached host rock. Classified in the approximate #4 mesh range, it offers strong presence for its weight, with a balanced shape and enough surface complexity to stand out among mid-gram nuggets.
 
The most distinctive feature of this piece is the contrast between the rich golden surfaces and the darker host rock that remains firmly attached. The host material provides clear geological context, showing how the gold originally formed and was carried within its surrounding matrix. Rather than detracting from the nugget, the host rock adds depth, texture, and authenticity, making this specimen especially appealing to collectors who value natural formation over isolated metal.
While the host rock increases the overall bulk and visual size of the nugget, it contributes very little to the total weight. The measured 1.444 grams is driven primarily by the gold itself, with the matrix serving to enhance form and appearance rather than mass. This gives the piece a broader, more substantial look than a fully detached nugget of similar weight.
 
The exposed gold displays warm, buttery-yellow tones with a slightly granular texture. Natural creases, uneven edges, and small recesses catch light from multiple angles, creating shifting highlights that emphasize its three-dimensional form. The nugget presents well from multiple viewpoints and has a solid, natural feel in hand.
 
At over 1.4 grams, this nugget sits in a desirable mid-gram size range that balances intrinsic gold value with strong specimen appeal. Its combination of visible gold, attached host rock, and well-defined shape makes it well suited for display, collection, or incorporation into a custom setting that highlights natural contrast and texture.
 
Potential uses include:
Display specimen illustrating natural gold-in-host formation
Addition to a Yukon or Canadian gold nugget collection
Educational or reference piece showing the relationship between gold and matrix
Unique accent for custom jewelry designs emphasizing natural form
 
Weight: 1.444 grams
Region: Yukon Territory, Canada
Size Category: Approx. #4 mesh
Notes: Gold with attached natural host rock
 
This nugget is a strong example of naturally occurring Yukon gold, offering clear geological context, attractive contrast, and a substantial appearance relative to its weight.