Golden days, golden child, as good as gold, heart of gold, golden oldie – from the cradle on, gold plays an important part in our language and imagination. The word ‘gold’ is used in praise, celebration, congratulation and reward. Yet few of us have any notion of where it comes from, or even why gold is so admired. For centuries gold was a symbol of romantic adventure, excellence and wealth. Sadly, it is increasingly a symbol of vulgarity and crass ostentation. This was epitomised by Gerald Ratner’s famous admission in 1993 that his 9-carat jewellery was ‘crap’. These days, it is more likely to be associated with new money, ‘gold-digging’ footballers’ wives and gangsta rap stars. All in all it seems that gold, if it can be seen and touched, has an image problem.
It is a great shame that gold has become non-U, because it is a durable and risk-free asset.
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