A precious metal that has held global value for thousands of years, gold plays an important role in our society. Initially used as currency and in jewellery for the wealthy, the possible uses of this key resource have expanded into a surprising amount of everyday items. Most of us are unaware, for example, that a small amount of gold is present in our smartphones.
Intrigued to find out just how much of this valuable resource is sitting in your home? Read on to find out more about how gold is used in everyday life.
Electronics
As we’ve already mentioned, gold is a key ingredient in your smartphone, as well as other electronics. It’s highly conductive, meaning that electricity can flow through the device with little issue. Despite being one of the most expensive metals around, it’s this superior conductivity that makes it first-choice for electronic devices, above other metals such as copper, silver and aluminium.
Additionally, it’s fairly pliable, making it easy to shape as needed, even in small amounts as in circuit boards. Thin layers of gold are often applied through electroplating or sputtering techniques to create conductive pathways, minimising the risk of oxidation and maintaining optimal performance.
Jewellery
One of the more obvious places that gold is used is in jewellery. Its reputation as both a beautiful and luxurious metal means that it’s a favourite for many types of adornment. As well as looking lovely, only a small amount of people are allergic to gold, making it a safer choice for those with sensitivities. In fact, the higher the karat of the gold, the less likely it is to cause a negative reaction.
In recent years, rose gold has become a popular choice for jewellery with a modern twist. The pink hue is created by mixing gold and copper, and offers a more delicate aesthetic. However, yellow gold remains one of the top choices thanks to its timeless appeal.
Medical and dental sector
As well as consumer goods, gold has an important role to play in the medical and dental sectors. Not only is it an important part of the electronic equipment, but it can be directly used as a treatment. It’s been shown as effective in targeting the painful symptoms of rheumatoid, juvenile and psoriatic arthritis, offering relief to around seven in ten people, according to the University of Washington. Gold can either be injected or taken in a tablet form – either can have a positive impact, although the injectable form may be more effective.
In dentistry, gold can be used to create crowns, inlays, overlays and to fill small cavities. Again, this is because it’s very unlikely that someone will be allergic to gold, making it a safe metal for use in the mouth. Furthermore, it’s extremely durable, which is vital for longevity of dental work (and makes the associated cost worth it).
A range of possibilities
Gold is useful for far more than just currency, although it still holds a place in the global economy. However, it’s important to note that in order to be a viable option for both people and the planet, gold must be mined sustainably in the future, using ethical practices. With such measures in place, we can all continue to enjoy the benefits of this resource for years to come.