Full Idea
We can never know what are the precise number of properties depending on the real essence of gold, any one of which failing, the real essence of gold, and consequently gold, would not be there, unless we knew the real essence of gold itself.
Gist of Idea
We cannot know what properties are necessary to gold, unless we first know its real essence
Source
John Locke (Essay Conc Human Understanding (2nd Ed) [1694], 3.06.19)
Book Reference
Locke,John: 'Essay Concerning Human Understanding', ed/tr. Nidditch,P.H. [OUP 1979], p.449
A Reaction
Excellent. This is a splendid reason why we should not make the mistake of thinking that essence consists of necessary properties.