Gold: A Historical and Valuable Investment Commodity

Gold is a precious metal that has fascinated humans for centuries. From the time it was first discovered, gold has been highly prized for its rarity, beauty, and durability. In this article, we will explore the historical significance of gold and its evolution from a symbol of wealth and power to a valuable investment commodity.

We will also answer some of the most commonly asked questions about gold, including why it is so valuable, what it is used for, how to buy it, and how it has been used as a safe haven asset. Finally, we will examine the gold standard and its abandonment, and what that means for gold as an investment commodity today.

Why Is Gold Valuable?

Gold is valuable for a number of reasons. First, it is rare. Gold is difficult to find and extract, which means that the supply is limited. Second, it is durable. Gold does not rust or corrode, and it is not affected by moisture or heat.

This means that it can last for centuries without losing its value. Third, it is beautiful. Gold has a rich, warm colour that is highly appealing to the human eye.

When Was Gold Discovered? 

Gold was first discovered in its natural form around 6000 BC. It was likely discovered by ancient civilizations in the Middle East, such as the Sumerians and the Babylonians. Since then, gold has been found all over the world, including in Africa, Asia, and the Americas.

How Is Gold Made?

The formation of gold is a fascinating process that takes us beyond the confines of our planet and into the cosmos. Let's delve into this process and explore how gold is formed.

The Cosmic Origins of Gold

Gold, like other heavy elements, is believed to have been formed in the universe through a process known as nucleosynthesis. This process involves the fusion of atomic nuclei to create heavier elements. For elements lighter than iron, this process occurs in the cores of stars. However, for heavier elements like gold, a more powerful event is needed.

Neutron Star Collisions: A Gold Factory

One such event is the collision of two neutron stars. Neutron stars are incredibly dense remnants of supernovae, with masses greater than the sun but diameters only about the size of a city.

When two neutron stars collide, they create a kilonova — an explosion so powerful that it can create elements heavier than iron, including gold.

During a neutron star collision, countless neutrons are thrown out into space. These neutrons collide with atomic nuclei, creating heavier and heavier elements in a process known as rapid neutron capture, or the r-process. It is through this process that gold is believed to be formed.

From Space to Earth

The gold formed in these cosmic events is then scattered across the universe in the aftermath of the explosion. Over billions of years, this material can coalesce and form new stars and planets — including Earth.

It's believed that much of the gold found on Earth was delivered by asteroid impacts during the planet's early history. Over time, geological processes have concentrated this gold into deposits that we can mine today.

How Is Gold Turned Into Bars and Coins?

The creation of gold bars and coins is a fascinating process that combines both ancient techniques and modern technology. Let's delve into this process and explore how these precious items are made.

Creating Gold Bars

Gold bars, also known as bullion or ingots, are produced through a process known as casting. Here's a simplified overview of the process:

Melting: Gold is heated to its melting point of approximately 1,064 degrees Celsius. This is typically done in a furnace.

Casting: The molten gold is then poured into a mould, which gives the gold bar its shape. The moulds are typically made of heat-resistant materials such as graphite or high-grade steel.

Cooling: Once the gold has been poured into the mould, it is allowed to cool and solidify. This can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours, depending on the size of the bar.

Marking: Once the gold bar has cooled and solidified, it is removed from the mould and cleaned. It is then stamped with its weight, purity, and a brand. This information is crucial for investors, as it verifies the bar's authenticity and value.

Creating Gold Coins

The process for creating gold coins is slightly different and involves a technique known as minting. Here's a simplified overview of the process:

Blanking: Gold is first rolled into large sheets of specific thickness. These sheets are then punched to create round blanks, which will become the coins.

Annealing: The blanks are then heated in a process known as annealing. This softens the metal, making it easier to stamp the coin's design.

Striking: The annealed blanks are then placed in a coining press. The press uses engraved dies to stamp the coin's design onto the blank. This process is often repeated several times to ensure a clear, detailed design.

Inspecting: Each coin is inspected for quality and accuracy. Any coins that do not meet the mint's standards are melted down and the process begins again.

Packaging: The finished coins are then packaged and prepared for distribution.

What Is Gold Used For?

Gold is used for a variety of purposes, including jewellery, electronics, and medicine. It is also used as a form of currency and as an investment commodity.

Investment Gold - Gold Bars & Gold Coins:

Investing in physical gold has been a popular choice for individuals and governments throughout history. One of the earliest examples of using gold as currency dates back to the Lydian civilization, which was located in what is now Turkey. The Lydians were among the first to mint coins using gold, which allowed them to trade more efficiently with neighbouring civilisations.

Today, gold bullion remains a popular investment choice, with many individuals and organisations investing in gold as a hedge against economic instability. Gold bullion refers to gold bars that are produced by private mints or government mints. These bars come in various sizes, ranging from one gram to one kilogram, and are typically made from 99.99% pure gold. The value of these bars is based on their weight and the current gold spot price.

Gold Being Used as a Safe Haven - Gold Price Stability During Uncertainty:

Gold is often seen as a safe haven asset, meaning that it is a reliable store of value during times of economic uncertainty. During periods of high inflation or market volatility, investors often seek to invest in gold as a way to protect their wealth. For example, during the global financial crisis of 2008, the price of gold surged as investors flocked to precious metals to protect their investments from the economic downturn.

Similarly, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the price of gold reached record highs as investors sought to protect their wealth from the economic fallout of the pandemic. Gold's reputation as a safe haven asset has also made it a popular choice for central banks, which often hold large amounts of gold as a reserve asset.

The Gold Standard and Its Abandonment

The gold standard was a monetary system in which a country's currency was pegged to the value of gold. Under the gold standard, a country's central bank would hold a fixed amount of gold, which could be exchanged for a specific amount of currency. The gold standard was widely used during the 19th and early 20th centuries and was seen as a way to promote financial stability. 

Most countries abandoned the gold standard in the mid-20th century, and moved towards a system of fiat currency in which the value of a country's currency is not tied to the value of a commodity like gold. This led to a significant shift in global financial systems, and highlighted the ongoing evolution of gold's role in the global economy.

Finally, the abandonment of the gold standard marked a significant shift in global financial systems, and highlights the ongoing evolution of gold's role in the global economy. While the gold standard is no longer in use, gold remains a popular investment commodity and is likely to continue to play an important role in the global financial landscape for many years to come.

The Future of Gold

As we look towards the future, the role of gold in the global economy remains as relevant as ever. Despite the rise of digital currencies and other forms of investment, gold continues to hold a unique position as a store of value and a hedge against economic uncertainty. Let's explore what the future might hold for this precious metal.

Gold as a Hedge Against Inflation

In an era of unprecedented fiscal stimulus and potential inflationary pressures, gold's role as a hedge against inflation is likely to be increasingly important. Gold has a long history of maintaining its value in real terms, making it an attractive asset for investors looking to protect their wealth from the eroding effects of inflation.

Gold in a Digitally Connected World

The rise of digital technologies has also opened up new opportunities for gold. Digital gold products, such as gold-backed cryptocurrencies and tokenised gold, are making it easier for investors to buy, sell, and store gold. These innovations could potentially broaden the appeal of, and increase gold demand to a new generation of investors.

Gold and Geopolitical Uncertainty

Gold has traditionally been seen as a safe haven asset during times of geopolitical uncertainty. As we move into an increasingly interconnected and unpredictable world, this aspect of gold's appeal is likely to remain strong.

Gold and Sustainable Development

Finally, the gold industry is increasingly focusing on sustainable and responsible mining practices. This is not only good for the environment and local communities, but it also makes good business sense. Investors are increasingly looking to invest in assets that are not only financially sound, but also socially and environmentally responsible.

While the future is inherently uncertain, the outlook for gold prices in the global economy remains strong. Its enduring appeal as a store of value, its adaptability to new technologies, and its role in sustainable development all suggest that gold will continue to play a vital role in the global economy.