Gold
Gold is one of the most recognised and admired precious metals in the world, valued for its rarity, beauty, and resistance to corrosion. For thousands of years, ancient civilizations—from the Egyptians to the Greeks—used gold as a symbol of wealth, status, and power. Gold jewellery dates back to around 4000 BC, and the first known gold coins were minted around 600 BC in Lydia. South Africa’s relationship with gold became globally significant after the 1886 discovery on the Witwatersrand, which turned the country into a major gold-producing region.
Gold is soft, malleable, and naturally radiant, making it ideal for jewellery and decorative pieces. It never rusts or tarnishes, and its excellent conductivity also makes it valuable in electronics, aerospace technology, and medical equipment. As an investment, gold is considered a safe haven because it holds value through economic uncertainty, protects against inflation, and has consistent global demand. It is easy to buy, store, and trade, which makes it a popular choice for investors seeking stability. Interestingly, gold originates from supernova explosions, small traces exist in the human body, and South Africa once produced more gold than any other country in the world.