Some people argue that gold has no intrinsic value. They say it is a barbaric relic with no monetary qualities. They contend that in a modern economic environment, paper (or digital) currency is the money of choice, and that gold’s only worth is as a material for making jewelry.At the other end of the spectrum are those who assert that gold is an asset with various intrinsic qualities that make it unique and necessary for investors to hold in their portfolios. They believe that investors have as many reasons for investing in gold as there are gold investment vehicles.The reasons behind gold’s enduring value include:Gold is perceived as a symbol of wealth, power, and majesty.Gold has had an exalted position throughout the ages as a highly coveted, even worshipped material.Gold has been used over millennia as jewelry and a means of exchange.Gold has an important economic role as a means of exchange should currency collapse.Gold is a store of value and thus an investment opportunity for individuals.Gold is rare and difficult to extract.Gold is malleable and can be formed as needed for use in, among others, electronics, dentistry, medical tools, and the defense, aerospace, and automotive industries.Gold is durable and noncorrosive.Gold has visual beauty and magnetic appeal.
