Kuld

Kuld is the Estonian name for the chemical element gold. It is a dense, soft, malleable metal with a characteristic yellow luster. Gold has the chemical symbol Au and an atomic number of 79. It is a transition metal and is often classified among the noble metals for its resistance to corrosion and oxidation.

Physically, gold is extremely ductile and can be drawn into fine wires or hammered into thin sheets. It is highly conductive and highly reflective in the visible spectrum. It is very dense, with a density of about 19.3 g/cm3, and it remains stable over a wide range of temperatures, melting at about 1064°C and boiling at around 2856°C.

Occurrence and production: Gold is typically found in native form in veins and in alluvial deposits, often alongside quartz and other minerals. Major producers include China, Australia, Russia, the United States, and Canada. It is extracted through hard rock mining and alluvial mining, then refined to high purity for use in jewelry, electronics, and investment.

History and uses: Gold has been mined for thousands of years and has played a central role in jewellery, ornamentation, and coinage. It has also served as a monetary standard and reserve asset. In modern technology, gold’s conductivity and resistance to tarnish make it valuable for electrical connectors, plated components, and integrated circuits. Alloys such as electrum combine gold with silver and have historical significance.

Economy and environment: Gold mining and trade influence global markets and investment flows. The industry faces environmental and social challenges, including habitat disruption and chemical use in some extraction methods. Recycling from jewelry and electronic waste remains an important source of refined gold.