Gold, found in Kildonan, Sutherland, Scotland

This gold nugget measuring 1cm long is a specimen of Scottish gold. It was collected from the Suisgill Burn, Kildonan, Sutherland. Gold occurs in several areas of Scotland and small nuggets like this example as well as gold flakes have been recovered by panning in burns. Kildonan and Leadhills are the best known localities and the collection includes flakes from both these areas. Other localities include Tyndrum, Aberfeldy and the Ochil Hills. Kildonan was the scene of a mini gold rush in 1869 when, after the discovery of a few nuggets, about 600 hopeful prospectors arrived to try their luck. No fortunes were made and the rush was short lived. In the 16th century gold from the Southern Uplands, including Leadhills was used in the Scottish Crown Jewels and in coinage of the time.

Small amounts of this precious metal can still be found today by panning in these areas. Commercial interest in Scottish gold is centred on the Tyndrum. With the recent large rise in gold prices the known gold bearing deposits in this area may be economically viable.