177.4 Gram Natural Gold Nugget Specs

This beautiful 177.4 gram natural gold nugget was mined in Chandalar, Alaska, between the Brooks Range and Prudhoe Bay. It is part of an estate collection of the finest nuggets that a mining family discovered in over 30 years of mining!  A miner once told us that when they find an area that produces large nuggets like this, they call it a “potato patch.” This natural gold nugget weighs 177.4 grams, 5.7 troy ounces. It is about 1.5″ wide, about 1 3/4″ tall, and a little over 1/2″ thick. This nugget has a semi-rugged texture, with rounded features, showing that it traveled downstream far enough to break most of the quartz crystals away but you can still see areas left behind in the gold where the quartz had been. An x-ray fluorescence machine tested the nugget and found it to be 96% pure gold. This gold nugget comes with a certification book and map showing where the gold was found.

Chandalar Information

Chandalar boasts a rich history in gold mining that dates back to the late 19th century. This is when prospectors first discovered the precious metal in the region. The allure of striking it rich drew miners from far and wide, leading to the establishment of numerous mining camps and settlements. During the early 1900s, Chandalar experienced a gold rush as prospectors flocked to the area in search of fortune. Placer mining, using techniques such as panning and sluice boxing, was prevalent in the region. The mining operations faced numerous challenges including harsh weather conditions and remote locations. But, the potential for substantial gold yields kept the prospectors persevering. Over the years, technological advancements led to more sophisticated mining methods. The legacy of gold mining in Chandalar is evident in the remnants of old mining structures and the tales of those who sought their fortunes in this rugged Alaskan landscape.

General Info About Nuggets

Because of our low prices, this gold sells quickly! If we do not have this exact nugget in stock we will find something comparable for you. Most of our nuggets are between 70% to 95% pure gold. Furthermore, natural gold has other metals mixed with it, including silver and platinum. You can request nuggets from different areas of the state and will notice that the color and texture varies from mine to mine. Throughout Alaska, people discover natural gold nuggets, which showcase the state’s abundant mineral wealth. These nuggets are the result of various geological processes that have occurred over millions of years. The combination of glaciers, erosion, and mineralization has led to the formation of these valuable pieces of gold. Alaska’s rivers, creeks, and remote areas attract prospectors and gold enthusiasts who search for these precious nuggets, which can vary in size and shape. Thus, the allure of finding natural gold nuggets in Alaska’s picturesque landscapes has made it a popular destination for those seeking the thrill of gold prospecting and the beauty of untamed nature.