Heavy Rock

By Nighthawktn, 2 January, 2025
Description

One of my fathers collection, he had it for years. where he got it from I have no idea.

He was in WWII and in New Gunnie, Philippians, Japan, and other surrounding areas.

In New Gunnie he was an engineer and built one of the first airports there. I think from 1944 to 1946 area.

He also did a lot of digging work in Ohio 50 miles east of Cleveland and 40 miles west of Erie PA and about 6 miles from Lake Erie, Called Ashtabula County. He had where we lived two ponds dug and various other digging projects over the years.

So unless I take it to an Rock expert just want to see it anyone has any ideas.

Thanks   

Category
Other
Medium
This weights 3 LBS 6 Oz it's around 3 inches at the longest points 2.5 inches tall.

Distinguishing marks
Has a lot of what looks like gold specs with in the rock.
See picture with text.
Condition
Excellent
Size and dimensions of this item
3 inches at the longest points 2.5 inches tall.
Weight
3 LBS 6 Oz
History
From my fathers collection.
For Sale?
No
Photos

Charley

4 months ago

Item Description:
This is a 3-pound, 6-ounce rock approximately 3 inches in width and 2.5 inches in height. Its surface is textured, featuring what appear to be reflective gold-like specks embedded in the material. Additional images provide a better view of the unique qualities of the rock, including its rough surface texture and metallic flecks.

Condition:
The rock is in excellent physical condition with no visible damage or fractures beyond natural irregularities. The reflective specks are more apparent in natural light, lending an intriguing quality to the piece.

Possible Origin:
The item's history includes association with locations such as New Guinea, the Philippines, Japan (circa 1944–1946), and Ohio in the United States, particularly Ashtabula County near Lake Erie. These areas are rich in natural resources, which suggests the rock may have geological significance.

  • New Guinea and Philippines: Possible volcanic or mineral-rich origin.
  • Ohio (Ashtabula County): Known for sedimentary rocks, iron ore, and glacial deposits.

Potential Composition:
The gold-like flecks may indicate:

  1. Pyrite (Fool's Gold): A common mineral that can resemble gold but has little monetary value.
  2. Native Gold: If genuine gold is present, it could have significant value depending on the concentration.
  3. Other Minerals: The rock could contain trace elements of valuable metals or be a rare geological specimen.

Estimated Value:
Without professional testing, it's difficult to assign a precise value. If the rock contains pyrite, the value would primarily be decorative or geological ($10–$50). If it contains genuine gold, the value would depend on the weight and purity of the gold content, which could elevate the value substantially (hundreds to thousands of dollars).

Recommendations:

  1. Professional Analysis: Consult a geologist or a gemologist for mineral composition and to confirm whether the gold-like specks are genuine.
  2. Metal Testing: Use a portable XRF analyzer or take the rock to a professional for detailed metal content testing.
  3. Historical Research: Investigate the rock’s origin further, especially its association with New Guinea or Ohio, as this could enhance its uniqueness or historical value.

This intriguing item may hold scientific, historical, or financial significance, making professional appraisal essential.

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