Petrography and Geochemistry of Gold-Like Rocks from Battambang, Mondulkiri, Kratie, and Takeo Provinces, Cambodia: A Scientific Evaluation of Local Beliefs

Rocks commonly referred to as Meas Sruoy in Cambodia resemble “fool’s gold,” a mineral that is frequently mistaken for real gold due to its similar appearance. In many Cambodian communities, these rocks are believed not only to contain gold but also to possess spiritual qualities that can ward off evil and bring prosperity, health, and happiness. To investigate the composition of these materials, Meas Sruoy samples collected from Battambang, Mondulkiri, Kratie, and Takeo provinces were analyzed using hand-held X-ray fluorescence (XRF), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The intact samples were first cleaned using an ultrasonic cleaner to remove surface contaminants and then dried prior to elemental characterization using a handheld XRF (X-MET8000). Elemental distribution was further examined using EDS. For elemental composition, the samples were ground into powders to improve homogeneity and subsequently analyzed by XRD (Malvern Panalytical Aeris, λ = 0.15406 nm), with diffraction patterns analyzed using MDI Jade 6 software. The analytical results revealed no detectable gold in any of the examined samples. Instead, the rocks exhibited diverse mineralogical compositions dominated by silica, iron, sulfur, and aluminum, along with trace levels of heavy metals, including arsenic, lead, chromium, and copper. Mineral phase analysis consistently identified quartz and pyrite, indicating a complex geological origin and confirming the visual resemblance to pyrite, commonly known as fool’s gold. These findings provide scientific evidence that contrasts with traditional beliefs surrounding Meas Sruoy while contributing valuable information regarding the mineralogical characteristics of rocks from different regions of Cambodia. Additionally, the detection of pyrite and trace heavy metals suggests potential environmental and public health considerations, particularly with prolonged exposure to these materials.