Gold and platinum are two examples of metals that are found in nature in the free state, meaning they exist in their elemental form without being chemically combined with other elements. These metals are relatively unreactive and resistant to corrosion, contributing to their presence in native (pure) form in certain geological environments. Gold, in particular, is well-known for its occurrence in nuggets or small grains in riverbeds and alluvial deposits. Platinum is also found in a native state, often alloyed with other platinum group metals, and is typically associated with certain types of ores.