Gold has always been regarded as a symbol of wealth and beauty, especially in jewellery. However, its versatility and unique properties have made it essential in several modern industries. From aerospace to medicine, gold’s applications go far beyond coins and ornaments. Here’s a deeper look at where gold is being used today.
Jewellery: The Classic Use of Gold
For thousands of years, gold has been synonymous with jewellery. Its malleability, combined with its resistance to tarnish and high shine, makes it an ideal material for crafting beautiful ornaments. About 78% of the world’s mined gold is used in making jewellery.
Gold’s popularity in jewellery is not only because of its beauty but also its ease of manipulation. It can be melted, shaped, and molded into intricate designs, making it perfect for rings, necklaces, and earrings. Even today, the tradition of using gold in jewellery remains strong, especially in countries like India, where gold symbolizes wealth and prosperity.
Finance and Investment: A Timeless Store of Value
Gold’s role in the financial world is undeniable. For centuries, it has been seen as a store of wealth. The first gold coins were minted around 560 BC in Lydia, and since then, gold has continued to be a popular investment.
Today, investors buy gold in various forms—gold coins, bars, and bullion—to diversify their portfolios. The South African Krugerrand, for instance, is one of the world’s most traded gold coins. In times of economic uncertainty, gold remains a safe-haven asset, providing stability when markets fluctuate.
Medical and Dental Uses of Gold
Gold’s chemical properties make it ideal for use in dentistry. Dentists have been using gold for dental work for thousands of years. Gold crowns, fillings, and bridges are common because of the metal’s durability and non-reactivity. Unlike other materials, gold does not corrode, making it safe and long-lasting in the human mouth.
In the medical field, gold has therapeutic uses. It is used in the treatment of conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and tuberculosis. In some medical procedures, tiny amounts of gold are used to diagnose or treat specific diseases. For example, gold-198 isotopes are used in radiation therapy for cancer patients.
Aerospace: Gold in the Final Frontier
Gold plays a vital role in the aerospace industry. In spacecraft, gold is used to coat surfaces to protect them from infrared radiation and extreme temperatures. It also helps in lubricating mechanical parts and is used in circuits to ensure efficient electrical conductivity.
The unique properties of gold make it indispensable in space exploration. Its ability to reflect radiation and withstand extreme conditions helps protect astronauts and sensitive equipment, ensuring the smooth functioning of space missions.
Electronics: Gold’s Role in Everyday Devices
Most people don’t realize that gold is present in almost every electronic device they use. Thanks to its excellent conductivity, gold is commonly used in the circuits of devices like mobile phones, computers, and televisions. It ensures smooth transmission of digital signals, making gadgets more reliable and efficient.
Even though gold is used in small quantities in electronics, its role is crucial. It provides reliable connections that last longer compared to other metals. This is why gold is often found in high-performance computers and other electronic devices.
Other Uses of Gold: From Medals to Buildings
The beauty and symbolism of gold also extend to various ceremonial and cultural items. Gold is often used in wedding rings, Olympic medals, and religious artefacts, representing love, victory, and faith.
Gold’s reflective properties make it useful in energy-efficient glass for buildings, especially skyscrapers. This helps in reducing heat, keeping buildings cooler and more energy-efficient.
Gold’s value extends far beyond its use in jewellery. Its unique properties—durability, conductivity, and resistance to corrosion—make it a vital resource in industries ranging from medicine to aerospace. Whether you wear it, invest in it, or use it in high-tech devices, gold remains an integral part of our daily lives, showcasing its enduring importance in modern society.
