THE METALS - GOLD

Second up on our list is;

GOLD

A brief overview of GOLD...

• Treasured because of its durability and rarity.

• Densest, yellow, and highly malleable precious metal.

• Belongs to the noble and precious metal family.

• A safe haven asset during economic uncertainty.

• In the PERIODIC TABLE OF ELEMENTS:

Symbol : Au

Atomic Number : 79

• Top country producers of gold: China, Russia, Australia, Canada, United States of America

A brief history of GOLD...

Cosmic events like supernovae and neutron star collisions form gold.

The first gold was smelted in ancient Egypt around 3600 BC; it was considered divine and later became the first standardized, refined currency in Lydia - modern Turkey - around 600 BC. Ancient Egypt considered gold to be the "flesh of the gods", particularly associated with the sun god Ra. They also used it as a pharaonic burial item, such as Tutankhamun's mask. Gold was used as currency throughout the Mediterranean.

Grasberg mine located in Papua, Indonesia is the largest gold mine in the world.

Caring for your GOLD...

• Soak gold items in warm water with mild soap for 10-15 minutes to remove oils and dirt.

• Rinse thoroughly with warm water.

• For deeper cleaning, use a soft-bristle brush for the crevices.

• Dry with a lint-free cloth.

• Store pieces individually in a fabric-lined box to prevent scratches.

• Avoid contact with harsh chemicals, such as chlorine, bleach, lotions, and perfumes.

DID YOU KNOW?

24 KARAT GOLD

Gold Bar

• 99.9% - 100% purity

• Intense yellow

• Very soft, scratches and bends easily

• Often used for investment coins, bars, or fine jewelry in some cultures, but not ideal for daily wear.

22 KARAT GOLD

Indian Jhumka Earrings

• 91.7% purity

• With 8.3% other metals such as silver, nickel, zinc

• Rich yellow

• Commonly used in high-end, traditional jewelry, but still relatively soft.

18 KARAT GOLD

1968 Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra

• 75% purity

• 75% gold, 25% alloyed metals

• Rich, deep yellow

• Ideal balance of purity and strength for fine, expensive jewelry

14 KARAT GOLD

14K Figaro Chain

• 58.3% purity

• 58.3% gold, 41.7% alloyed metals

• Slightly less yellow than 18K, softer yellow

• Most popular for engagement rings and daily jewelry due to high durability and cost-effectiveness

10 KARAT GOLD

10K Torsade Ring

• 41.7% purity

• Most durable and affordable

• High resistance to wear and tear