Where is gold found in the world?

There are many places were finding gold is a common occurrence. There are two categories for gold found in nature. The first is primary and the other is secondary.

Primary gold is often what is found in rock formations, which ultimately become mines if there is a substantial amount of gold. For these types of gold, it is highly likely that the gold will be found alongside other valuable minerals, like quartz and silver. Many mining companies that sell gold from their mining efforts will also sell the other minerals as well.

Secondary gold is found in small waterways that have run through these rock and mineral formations. When the current is strong enough for streams, rivers and creeks to accomplish it, the water will carry pieces of gold, often referred to as small nuggets or flakes, down through the path. As the gold is carried from the formation down the waterway, pieces settle on the beds or floors and eventually get covered in dirt and sand. While it is a little uncommon, some people have found rather large nuggets of gold panning these waterways.

Currently, the world’s largest source of gold is located in the Witwatersrand basin. This area in South Africa has provided a large amount of the world’s gold. It is also believed that there is still about 40% of the basin that has yet to be mined and still holds much more gold.

Related Pages:

• Who discovered the element gold?
• Who discovered gold?
• Where was gold found?
• Where is gold located?
• Where is gold found?
• Where is gold found on earth?
• How did gold get its name?

Read more common gold questions.