It’s an assumption of beauty: gold is offered appreciative glances, is understood to be a resource that shimmers. There’s more to discover with this metal than mere aesthetics, however. Instead gold has many uses:
Jewelry
The most ancient — and most expected — use for gold is its application within the field of jewelry. Its malleability allows it to be shaped into necessary designs; and its resistance to corrosion ensures that pieces remain bright. This was the original intention of this metal, with recently found archaeological artifacts dating back to the Predynastic Period (6000 BC). Currently over 70 percent of gold production is offered to jewelry, and many items are represented as accessories on eBay.
Currency
The value of gold has never been questioned. Therefore, its use as a form of finance was to be anticipated. This metal was the first official currency recognized by the world, appearing in 560 BC (during the reign of Emperor Alyattes II of Lydia). It has since become the standard of all wealth, with steady exchange rates and endless investment potential. It remains one of the few economic certainties.
Alchemy
The fifth century was an age of discovery — with gold dominating scientific theory. Men believed that this metal (with its ability to interact with toxic materials and render them safe) would be the origin of the famed Philosopher’s Stone. Its chemical properties were unique, and alloys were used within all alchemical potions to ensure stability.
Healing
Medicine has forever championed gold: it can be reduced to a liquid, and then injected within the skin. Therefore, this makes it an ideal aid in treating diseases — such as arthritis, tuberculosis and even cancer. The natural salts found within it align with the body and can reduce painful swelling or tension. This practice began in 1927 and continues even today.
Genetics
The secrets of evolution are hidden within Deoxyribonucleic Acid (more commonly named DNA). Trying to discover the past — and potential — of humanity is no easy task, but gold is helping to conquer genetics. Its ability to attach itself to cells makes it the perfect platform for study. It’s applied to strands of code to observe the effects of hybrid materials and what they could eventually yield: allowing researchers to detect whether certain dangerous cells could eventually be replaced or even eradicated. This process arrived in the late 20th century.
Technology
The modern age is defined by electronics. It’s only to be expected therefore that gold plays a pivotal role in their creation. This material is conductive of electrical currents, allowing it to be placed within systems to secure their connections. Its resistance to carbon, hydrogen and oxygen also ensures that it won’t disintegrate. Gold first appeared in technology in 1946 with the creation of the Manhattan Project; it has since become known for smart-phones, computers and even aircraft.
Gold traces the histories of all achievements. Why then is it so often dismissed when its value extends through time?