Earthquakes and Quartz Found to Play Key Role in Gold Nugget Formation

New research reveals that seismic activity and piezoelectric properties of quartz contribute to the creation of large gold deposits.

Scientists have discovered that the pressure from earthquakes generates electric charges in quartz, facilitating gold deposition.
The study shows that quartz's piezoelectric effect can draw gold from hydrothermal fluids during seismic events.
Gold tends to accumulate on existing gold grains within quartz, forming larger nuggets over time.
This discovery challenges traditional theories of gold formation, which did not fully explain large nugget formation.
The findings could reshape our understanding of geological processes and gold mining techniques.