Why Gold Is Valuable
The value of gold has spanned centuries and civilizations. In ancient times, it represented power and served as currency for trade. Today, gold continues to maintain its status, beauty, and worth. If you’ve ever wondered why gold is valuable or if it’s worth investing in this metal, this guide is for you. Keep reading to discover the answer to the question “Why is gold valuable?” and learn why it may be a good idea to invest in gold.
Why Is Gold Valuable?
In many ways, gold is valuable because people have made it valuable. For millennia, people have attached value to gold, a precious metal found in the Earth’s crust. Ancient civilizations used gold to create decorative objects, jewelry, and other artifacts as long ago as 4000 B.C., according to the National Mining Association. The Egyptians, Romans, and others used gold as currency, helping them grow and flourish economically. In more recent times, gold remains a symbol of power and status. For example, athletes vie for gold medals to assert their dominance in their sport.
In addition to human influence, there are other qualities that make gold valuable. These qualities include:
Rarity
While other metals, like aluminum, are fairly abundant in the Earth’s crust, gold is rare. However, gold isn’t the most uncommon metal either, allowing it to be found and mined for use. The U.S. Geological Survey estimates about 244,000 metric tons of gold have been found in the world to date. That means that while it’s rare to find gold, a sufficient supply of this metal remains. For years, this combination has led many on the hunt for this precious metal.
Quality
Of course, the quality of gold has contributed to its high value. Unlike some other metals, such as iron or copper, gold doesn’t deteriorate over time. It’s extremely durable and doesn’t rust, tarnish, or corrode. Even with regular use, gold maintains its quality. Whether it’s been five years or 5,000 years, it doesn’t lose its value. It’s the reason so many couples choose to symbolize their love with gold wedding bands: because this metal stands the test of time.
Diversity
The value of gold may also come from its diversity. Gold is a soft metal, meaning you can manipulate it more easily for different uses. You can hammer, pull, or mold gold into various shapes without altering its makeup. From traditional uses like coins and jewelry to modern applications like electronics and dental fillings, there are numerous ways to use gold today.
Why Does Gold Hold Its Value Over Time?
For centuries, gold has continued to hold its value, and it’s likely to remain valuable for many years to come. That’s because there’s a limited supply of gold in existence, contributing to a continual demand for the metal. In addition, it’s not linked to the financial health of one nation, unlike currencies. For example, if the strength of the U.S. dollar falls, it doesn’t have a direct impact on the value of gold. Even if a global economic crisis occurs, it won’t lessen the value of gold.
What Are Reasons To Invest in Gold?
Gold has maintained its value throughout history, across civilizations and continents. In the future, there will continue to be a demand for this precious metal. If you’re considering whether to invest in gold, here are some benefits to consider:
Ease of Buying and Selling
Compared with other investments, gold is relatively easy to buy and sell. You can purchase gold in its physical form, such as gold jewelry or coins. It’s easy to store in a safe or jewelry box. A market for gold always exists, and since it holds its value, you can sell it whenever you’re ready to make a profit. For more information about the process of selling gold, you can speak with one of our experts at Americash Jewelry & Coin Buyers.
Stable Value
Unlike some other investments you can make, gold has a stable value. It’s less volatile than stocks and shares. While its worth may fluctuate at times, gold has proven its ability to maintain its value over time. During recessions, market crashes, or other periods of economic uncertainty, it can be helpful to have additional investments in the form of gold.
Protection From Inflation
Many people use gold as a hedge against inflation. According to Investopedia, the price of gold often increases with the cost of living. That’s because the value of currency, such as the U.S. dollar, declines in periods of inflation. The price of gold, along with everything else, then increases in response. Historically, the price of gold has risen significantly during times of inflation.
Portfolio Diversification
If you already have other assets, investing in gold can be a good way to diversify your portfolio. In fact, investing in gold may help to balance other high-risk investments you may have, such as stocks and bonds. For example, if you have some money in stocks and some in gold, this diversification can help offset potential losses if the stock market crashes. Having a diverse portfolio can help you improve your returns so you can meet your financial goals.
Value and Sell Your Gold in Westmont, Illinois
With the highest market prices in decades, there’s never been a better time to value and sell your gold. If you have gold jewelry, bullion, coins, or other items you want to sell, reach out to Americash Jewelry & Coin Buyers. We serve customers in Chicago and across the Midwest, offering high prices for gold collectibles. Whether you’ve been panning Illinois rivers or going through your jewelry box, we’ll work with you to purchase your gold fairly and easily.
To sell your gold, you can visit our location in Westmont, Illinois, outside of Chicago. We’ll provide a free appraisal with no obligation to sell to us. If you decide to sell, we’ll make you a cash offer based on current market prices. There’s no waiting involved, so you can walk away with the cash that same day. For added convenience, you can also fill out an online form for a no-obligation cash offer.
Image by Stevebidmead is licensed with Pixabay License
