Gold Industry Group Partner and Member The Perth Mint reflects on the historical gift of gold
For more than 7,000 years, gold has been highly prized as a symbol of wealth, splendour, and power.
As Christmas draws near and an abundance of gifts fill retail stores throughout the world, we reflect on the original gift of Christmas – gold – as the lustrous yellow metal plays a part in one of the oldest stories of Christianity.
Upon the birth of the baby Jesus, the Christmas story tells of three wise men, or magi, who travelled to Bethlehem from the east in search of the newborn king of the Jews, bringing with them precious gifts in honour of his birth. As they entered the manger where he lay, the wise men knelt to worship him, and presented their offerings of gold, then frankincense and myrrh.
In the time of Christ, gold was considered a symbol of divinity. Today, it is a symbol of affluence and prosperity, a reliable investment alternative, and a luxurious option for jewellery.
In many cultures around the world gold is considered a treasured gift at Christmas and on other special occasions throughout the year. In Egypt, gold is considered a symbol of eternal life. In ancient Ireland and Central America, gold was given as offerings to their gods, usually thrown in sacred rivers and lakes. The ancient Romans fashioned jewellery including rings, pendants, earrings and headdresses from the yellow treasure. Christians also view gold as hallowed, with traditional wedding bands made from the precious metal, as well as ceremonial chalices and cups.
If you’d like to give the gift of gold this Christmas The Perth Mint offers a unique range of gifts from pure gold coins to Argyle Pink Diamond 1oz pure gold ingots. The Mint’s internationally sought-after range of gold bullion coins showcase our country’s distinctive wildlife and the animals of the Chinese lunar calendar.
The Perth Mint is recognised as one of Perth’s most popular tourist attractions. The Gold Exhibition displays a wide selection of Australian gold coins, natural gold nuggets, unique gold jewellery and the largest coin in the world, weighing one tonne of pure gold.
For further information contact The Perth Mint on 1300 366 520 (Australia), +61 8 9421 7376 (International), or visit perthmint.com.au