The Napf gold has its origins in the Alps. It was 50 million years ago that the Alps were formed; they concealed the gold lodes which were primary sources of the Napf gold. In the Miocene Era large drainage systems transported Alpine detritus containing gold to the plains. Thus the Napf Massif is made of alluvial deposits. Thoday, these sedimentary rocks are made of conglomerate, sandstone and clay layers. The alluvial Napf gold occures as gold flakes. Nuggets are found rarely. It is characterised by a porous surface and a brillant yellow colour. The size of the grains varies between 0.2 and 2 mm across and at least 0.1 mm thickness. The Napf Area of Central Switzerland is supposed to be the historically first known gold occurrence in Switzerland and has been known by the Helvets and the Romans. Today the creeks and rivers are well known to recreational prospectors. The untouched natural scenery of the Swiss Prealps and the possibility to quickly find a gold flake in the creek gravels make the Napf Area a perfect gold locality. Join us in the Napf Area and the World Goldpanning Championships 2003.

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Last update: 06. April 2003