* Formation: Alluvial gold is formed when gold-bearing rocks are weathered and eroded, and the gold particles are transported by water. The gold is then deposited in river beds, floodplains, and other areas where the water slows down and drops its sediment.
* Characteristics: Alluvial gold is typically found in the form of nuggets, flakes, and grains. It is usually relatively pure, as the impurities have been washed away by water.
* Location: Alluvial gold is found in many parts of the world, including Alaska, California, Australia, and Africa.
Reef Gold
* Formation: Reef gold is formed when gold-bearing hydrothermal solutions circulate through cracks and fissures in the Earth's crust. The gold is then deposited in veins and lodes.
* Characteristics: Reef gold is typically found in the form of crystals, nuggets, and grains. It is often associated with other minerals, such as quartz, calcite, and pyrite.
* Location: Reef gold is found in many parts of the world, including South Africa, Australia, Canada, and the United States.
Comparison
The main difference between alluvial and reef gold is the way they are formed. Alluvial gold is formed by the erosion and transportation of gold-bearing rocks, while reef gold is formed by the deposition of gold from hydrothermal solutions. Alluvial gold is typically found in river beds and floodplains, while reef gold is found in veins and lodes.