Egyptian hieroglyphics as early as 2600 BC describe gold as common as dust. Egypt and Nubia has sufficient gold to make them the major gold area for much of history. The Old Testament mentions gold more than once. The Black Sea was famous for its gold. In Lydia approximately 640 BC gold was used for coins.

Gold Ornaments created by Native Americans in Peru and Columbia, as well as, other countries, fueled the exploration of the Americas. The explorers came seeking this material to bring it home to the rulers of Europe.

In historic times, gold was easy to obtain. Since 1910 over seventy-five percent of all gold reserves have been extracted. Many of us are familiar with the California gold rush of 1910. Large deposits of gold were also discovered in Australia, Colorado, the Black Hills, and, of course, the famous Klondike gold rushes.

Since the 1880s, South Africa has mined a large portion of the gold supply of the entire world. The South African supply has declined since 2004 since it is becoming harder to extract the gold and the economic conditions in the country are affecting the gold industry.

In modern times, we have rewarded medals and decorations for great achievements such as the Gold Medal for the Olympic Games and the Nobel Prize. Gold will always be known for its beauty and symbolism.