extraLapis English No. 5: Gold--The Noble Mineral

Eons before humans began extracting and pouring gold, nature was shaping a treasure of her own. Gold is found naturally in a variety of forms from microdust to placer nuggets to complex crystals. Since the dawn of civilization, humans have valued gold, but to most, gold bullion has been more valuable than element in its natural form. Gold—The Noble Mineral explores the world of native gold. Beginning with the basics of gold mineralogy and enrichment, our expert team of authors traces the history of gold and man from the Egyptians to the modern-day, technoprospectors. Along the way, they describe localities, share stories and offer tips for evaluating specimens and avoiding fakes. Each article is lavishly illustrated with maps, diagrams and unforgettable, full-color photographs of some of the world’s finest examples of crystallized gold.