Throughout history, people have been in search of gold. It was one of the most highly preferred metals throughout the world. It is not only beautiful, but there are many uses of gold that people may not think about.
Jewelry
Nowadays, the primary use of gold is in jewelry. It has been used like this for thousands of years and has not changed much. It is said that nearly eighty percent of all gold mined today is used to make jewelry. Gold has been the go-to choice for jewelry all these years because it is malleable and easily forged with other metals, such as copper, platinum, and silver.
Money
Another popular way gold has been used is through money. You may have looked up the price of a bar of gold and seen how transactions of gold go back six thousand years. Gold coins were first forged around 560 B.C. under King Croesus of Lydia, an area in Turkey. Gold back then was most desirable because of its high value and rarity. It is also incredibly durable, and once they are made into coins, they are easy to carry around.
Electronics
Many probably do not realize this, but gold is used in electronics. Mobile phones possess around 0.034g of gold, around two dollars worth. Using gold within electronics is one of the most essential industrial uses because it is an efficient conductor that can carry small currents while remaining corrosion-free.
Gold is also used in connectors, switch and relay contacts, soldered joints, connecting wires, and strips. Also, besides mobile phones, it is used in calculators, televisions, laptops, and large electric appliances.
Dentistry
Since 700 B.C., gold has been used in dentistry when Etruscan dentists would use cold wire to attach replacement teeth in people’s mouths. The use of gold in dentistry is mainly used because of its performance along with its aesthetic appeal. Dentists will also use gold for fillings, crowns, orthodontic appliances, and bridges. This is because it is non-allergenic and is easy to work with because of its flexibility.
The Future
Gold has been prevalent throughout history, and it does not seem like it will slow down anytime soon. In fact, people would say it is the metal of the future. Already it looks like it is being used in aerospace. NASA uses gold in almost every space vehicle they have launched in hundreds of ways. It is clear that gold can be used in numerous ways and should never be overlooked.
