If you have shopped for natural gold nuggets recently, you have probably seen nuggets sealed in clear, labeled holders. Here is what a sealed gold nugget slab is, what the label tells you, and why many collectors prefer buying gold this way.
What is a sealed slab?
A slab is a rigid, clear protective holder that seals a single gold nugget inside. A label sealed in with the nugget records its key details, so the nugget and its information always stay together. The idea is borrowed from the coin world, where graded coins are sealed in holders, but a Sierra Gold Exchange slab is made for natural gold.
What the label shows
- Weight of the nugget, in grams
- Purity, shown in karats (for example 22K)
- Origin, the country or region the gold came from
- Serial number, unique to that slab
You can enter the serial number on our Verify Your Gold page to look up the slab's record.
Why buy gold in a sealed slab?
- Tested and labeled. Every slab is tested before it is sealed, so you know what you are buying.
- Protection. Small nuggets are easy to lose and soft gold can scratch. The slab keeps the nugget safe from handling.
- Easy to verify. The serial number ties the slab to its record, which helps when you buy, sell or trade.
- Ready to display or gift. Slabs stack neatly, look great on a shelf and make a ready-to-give present.
Slabbed nugget or loose nugget?
Both are genuine natural gold. A loose nugget lets you hold it, photograph it from every angle or set it in jewelry. A slabbed nugget trades that hands-on feel for protection and a label you can verify. Many collectors keep a mix of both.
Caring for a slab
Store slabs away from heat and direct sunlight, and clean the holder with a soft, dry cloth. Don't try to open a slab. Breaking the seal removes the protection and separates the nugget from its sealed label.
Ready to start? Browse our natural gold nuggets in sealed slabs or our loose natural gold nuggets. Every order ships fully insured, with free shipping on U.S. orders over $500.