Understanding Gold’s Types and Purposes

According to Merriam-Webster, gold is a “yellow metallic element that occurs naturally in pure form.” Used in the production of coins, electronics and jewelry, gold is among the world’s most valuable commodities. Here’s a closer look at this popular element.

Types of Gold

Yellow, white and rose gold are the three most popular types of gold. The different colors depend upon the metals of the alloy mixture. For example, yellow gold is a mix of pure gold and metals like copper and zinc. White gold’s silvery color is from nickel or palladium and rose gold’s pink tone is from copper.

In addition to the three most popular gold types, you can also find black, blue, green and grey gold on the market. Again, goldsmiths create these color types by creating alloys with other metallic elements.

If you own gold jewelry, coins or electronics, but you’re not sure what type of gold they feature, you might consider visiting a gold buyer Springfield MA. An expert can examine your item and determine its gold type and value.

Purposes of Gold

Gold’s properties depend upon the metals and quantities in the alloy. In the jewelry industry, for example, white gold is popular for gemstone setting because it contains a softer metal such as nickel or palladium.

Gold is a popular element in the electronics industry because it’s an efficient electricity conductor. Its malleability and its ability to carry currents and stay corrosion-free make it reliable and practical. Manufacturers use it in connection strips, connecting wires, relay contacts and many other connecting devices.

Recent data reveals that the main uses of gold in the United States were for jewelry (50%) and electronics (37%). The minting of official coins and other uses accounted for the remaining 13%.

Through the ages, gold has held a special place in human lives. Its value and usefulness make it one of the most popular minerals.